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As the music concluded, thunderous applause erupted from the audience, accompanied by endless praises. Guan Chunyi excitedly shouted, "Sister Shuang, you were amazing!" Xiao Xiang nodded in approval. However, Xiao Yuyan's smile appeared somewhat stiff, clearly taken aback by Nangong Shuang's exceptional skill on the guqin.
Nangong Shuang slightly bowed and was about to step off the stage when Xiao Zhongyan suddenly stood up and walked to the platform. "Nangong Shuang, your guqin skills are truly impressive. May I ask if you would be willing to perform a duet with me?"
His words immediately sparked a flurry of discussion among the audience. It was unprecedented for the Young Master of the Xiao Family to invite an outsider to perform alongside him at the Qin Hui of Xiao Mansion.
Nangong Shuang was slightly surprised but quickly composed herself. "Xiao Gongzi, your invitation is too kind; I would be honored to join you. However, may I ask what piece you wish to play?"
Xiao Zhongyan smiled gently. "Let us play 'Feng Qiu Huang,' as you just performed."
Nangong Shuang nodded in agreement. Xiao Zhongyan took a seat opposite her and placed another guqin on his lap. The two exchanged smiles and began to pluck the strings simultaneously, filling the air with a beautiful rendition of 'Feng Qiu Huang,' this time as a duet.
Their melodies intertwined like a conversation, rising and falling in harmony. Nangong Shuang's notes rang out like a phoenix's call—clear and melodious—while Xiao Zhongyan's sound resonated like a dragon's roar—deep and powerful. Together, their music blended beautifully, creating an enchanting experience.
The audience was completely captivated by the performance; even their breathing became gentle, as if afraid to disturb the exquisite music. Xiao Xiang and Madam Xiao exchanged glances, both reflecting a knowing glimmer in their eyes. Meanwhile, Xiao Yuyan bit her lip, her hand gripping her handkerchief tightly.
As the piece came to an end, applause erupted once more, with praises echoing throughout the hall. Some even exclaimed, "What a perfect match! Their music together is truly awe-inspiring!"
Nangong Shuang and Xiao Zhongyan stood together and bowed to the audience. Amidst the applause, they descended from the platform. Xiao Zhongyan quietly remarked, "Nangong Shuang, your guqin skills are remarkable; I am truly impressed. Thank you for agreeing to perform with me."
Nangong Shuang smiled modestly. "Xiao Gongzi is too kind; your artistry is exceptional. I merely have a basic understanding of guqin; it is indeed an honor to play alongside you."
As they exchanged pleasantries, Xiao Yuyan approached with a forced smile on her face. "Nangong Shuang, your guqin skills are indeed extraordinary; no wonder my brother holds you in such high regard. May I ask who your teacher is? With such accomplishments, I assume you must come from a prestigious lineage."
Nangong Shuang humbly replied, "I am unworthy of such praise; I have simply enjoyed playing since childhood and have studied a little. I cannot claim any great accomplishments compared to Miss Xiao's 'Plum Blossom Three Variations.'"
Xiao Yuyan seemed dissatisfied with this answer and was about to inquire further when Xiao Xiang announced that the Qin Hui would take a break and invited all guests to move to the flower hall for refreshments. The crowd rose and made their way toward the flower hall.
In the flower hall, maids had already prepared an array of exquisite pastries and fragrant tea. Guests settled down in small groups to enjoy tea and engage in casual conversation. Nangong Shuang and Guan Chunyi were seated at one table where tea and snacks had been arranged. Shortly after, Xiao Yuyan arrived with several young ladies and sat down opposite them.
"Nangong Shuang," she said with a sweet smile that matched her melodious voice, "I have long admired your name; seeing you today confirms that you are indeed extraordinary. How long have you been in the capital? It’s surprising that we haven’t crossed paths before at various gatherings."
Anticipating questions about her background, Nangong Shuang responded with her prepared explanation: "I originally hail from my family home in Jiangnan but came to seek refuge at Guo Residence due to some family changes. As just a country girl, I naturally wouldn’t appear in circles frequented by young ladies like yourselves."
"I see," Xiao Yuyan nodded thoughtfully, her eyes glinting with curiosity. "May I ask what your family does?"
Guan Chunyi interjected with some irritation at this line of questioning: "Miss Xiao, since Sister Shuang mentioned her family has experienced difficulties, it’s likely she doesn’t wish to elaborate further—why press on?"
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