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The Guo family followed the steward through several corridors and arrived at a spacious courtyard. In the center stood a grand flower hall, surrounded by countless colorful lanterns that illuminated the area as brightly as day. Many guests had already gathered inside the hall, raising their cups and exchanging pleasantries, creating a lively atmosphere.
"Ah, Lord Guo has arrived!" A middle-aged official stepped forward with a smile and cupped his hands in greeting. "What a coincidence! Several of my old friends are here today; why not join us for a drink?"
Lord Guo laughed heartily, "That sounds perfect!"
Seeing Lord Guo being pulled away by his colleagues, Nangong Shuang was quickly surrounded by a few close friends from her circle, chattering about clothing and jewelry. She quietly retreated to a nearby column, observing her surroundings discreetly.
"Nangong Shuang." A familiar voice came from behind her.
Turning around, she saw Xiao Zhongyan in a moon-white robe, elegant and refined, smiling at her.
"Xiao Gongzi," Nangong Shuang replied with a slight bow, "I hope your injuries are better after our parting yesterday?"
Xiao Zhongyan shook his head. "It's nothing serious; thanks to your Antidote Pill, I'm quite well now." He glanced around before lowering his voice. "I have important news to share tonight regarding significant clues about the Nangong Family Case."
Nangong Shuang's heart skipped a beat. "What clues?"
"Not now." Xiao Zhongyan looked at the surrounding guests. "When the lantern parade begins and everyone heads to the front yard to watch, come find me at Mei Garden. It’s quieter there for a detailed discussion."
Nangong Shuang nodded in agreement. Just as they were speaking softly, cheerful music suddenly filled the hall, followed by the steward's booming voice: "His Royal Highness has arrived!"
The guests stood up in unison, looking toward the entrance. A young man with an impressive demeanor walked in slowly, followed by several attendants. He was handsome and exuded an extraordinary presence; he could only be the prince.
"I must attend to the prince now," Xiao Zhongyan said quietly. "Please wait here. Remember, we’ll meet at Mei Garden after the lantern parade begins." With that, he quickly made his way toward the prince.
Nangong Shuang watched Xiao Zhongyan leave, contemplating her plans for the evening. He mentioned important clues about the Nangong Family Case; she wondered what they could be. Moreover, with the prince visiting Xiao Mansion, did this mean that the case was being reconsidered?
While lost in thought, Nangong Shuang caught sight of a familiar figure hurriedly entering through a side door—it was Xu Daren, who had been discussing matters with Xiao Xiang in Xiao Mansion's study! Xu Daren looked serious as he scanned his surroundings, seemingly searching for someone. Soon enough, he made eye contact with an elderly man dressed in luxurious attire; they exchanged slight nods before leaving the flower hall one after another.
Nangong Shuang felt a stir of curiosity: this elderly man must hold significant status; judging by his demeanor and how others reacted around him, he was likely the current Prime Minister! Xu Daren leaving with him surely indicated important business to discuss.
After hesitating for a moment, Nangong Shuang decided to take the risk and follow them to see what was happening. She feigned nonchalance as she walked slowly toward the side door. Once outside the flower hall, she saw their figures heading deeper into the estate. Nangong Shuang carefully trailed behind them at a safe distance while keeping an eye on her surroundings.
They passed through several corridors until they reached a secluded courtyard. This was clearly an inner courtyard of Xiao Mansion where outsiders were usually not permitted. In the courtyard stood an exquisite Xiao Lou hidden among flowering trees; a palace lantern swayed gently in front of it, casting long shadows on the ground.
Xu Daren and the Prime Minister entered Xiao Lou and promptly closed the door behind them. Nangong Shuang looked around and noticed no one else was present; she quietly approached the front of the building to find a vantage point for eavesdropping. The windows of Xiao Lou were tightly shut, but faint light seeped through the cracks. She pressed herself against the wall, holding her breath as she strained to listen to the conversation inside.
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