Nangong Shuang quickly covered the birthmark with her sleeve, feeling a sense of unease: why did the old man notice her birthmark? Did he have other intentions?
The old man seemed to sense her apprehension and smiled slightly. "Do not be alarmed, young lady. I am merely well-traveled and can recognize that this flower is extraordinary at a glance." He paused before continuing, "On the Lantern Festival in three days, Chengxi Meiyuan will host a Qin Hui. If you both are interested, you might consider attending. Perhaps you will find what you seek."
With that, the old man put away his guqin and stood up to leave, quickly disappearing into the night.
"What a strange old man," Nangong Shuang murmured, feeling unsettled. It seemed he knew many things; could the "thing you seek" he mentioned refer to clues about the Nangong Family Case?
Xiao Zhongyan appeared thoughtful. "This person possesses exceptional musical talent and an extraordinary demeanor; he is certainly not an ordinary individual. What he mentioned about the Qin Hui may be worth attending."
Nangong Shuang hesitated. "But we don't know who he is, nor do we know if this so-called Qin Hui truly exists."
Xiao Zhongyan smiled lightly. "I can confirm that Chengxi Meiyuan indeed holds a Qin Hui every year during the Lantern Festival. As for the old man's identity, though mysterious, my intuition tells me he means no harm."
Nangong Shuang remained noncommittal. She had doubts about this sudden invitation but had to admit that if they could find new clues at the Qin Hui, it would indeed be a good opportunity.
The two continued walking and soon arrived near Guo Residence. The night was deep, and the streets were almost deserted, with only the occasional sound of a watchman's clapper in the distance reminding them of time's passage.
"Let's stop here; thank you, Xiao Gongzi," Nangong Shuang said as she prepared to bid farewell.
However, Xiao Zhongyan showed no intention of leaving immediately. "Nangong Shuang, regarding what the old man mentioned about the Qin Hui, I would like to invite you to join me."
Nangong Shuang was taken aback. "That... might not be appropriate."
Xiao Zhongyan spoke earnestly. "This Qin Hui may relate to the case; if we go together, we can look out for each other. Moreover, given your current situation, it is quite dangerous to act alone."
Nangong Shuang weighed her options: Xiao Zhongyan had a point; if there were indeed clues at the Qin Hui, she couldn't afford to miss them. Yet going with him also posed risks.
"Let me think it over," she finally replied.
Xiao Zhongyan nodded in agreement. "Of course. Tomorrow I will send someone with an invitation; you can decide then."
After parting ways, Nangong Shuang walked towards Guo Residence's entrance. Looking back, she saw Xiao Zhongyan still standing there, watching her safely enter. In the moonlight, his figure appeared particularly proud and resolute, stirring something within Nangong Shuang.
Once inside Guo Residence, Nangong Shuang quietly returned to her room, careful not to disturb anyone in the household. Qiao Er had been waiting anxiously and rushed forward upon seeing her return.
"Miss, you're back!" Qiao Er whispered urgently. "I was so worried!"
Nangong Shuang comforted her by patting her hand gently. "It's nothing; I just went to the charity hall to look into those poisoning cases."
Qiao Er's expression turned grave. "Miss, your actions are too risky. The Prime Minister's residence and Shadow Pavilion are both searching for you; there are countless spies in the city. If you're discovered, the consequences would be dire."
Nangong Shuang sighed as she removed her outer garment. "I understand the danger, but these cases are related to the Nangong Family; I must get to the bottom of it. Moreover, it seems that the murderer is targeting everyone connected to the Nangong Family. If we don't find the true culprit soon, more people may fall victim."
Qiao Er poured her a cup of hot tea. "But it's too dangerous for you to go alone! Next time at least let me accompany you for safety."
Nangong Shuang smiled and said, "I am not alone today. I met Xiao Zhongyan at the charity hall; he is also investigating the case."
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