It was merely a common grass snake, indeed slithering in the direction of Mei Xianghan. Its movements were sluggish, likely having been disturbed from hibernation.
Mei Gongxue shielded Mei Xianghan behind her, but before she could act, a servant nearby immediately pinned the snake down with a stick, covered it with a thick garment, and whisked it away with practiced efficiency.
It was a false alarm.
Chapter 55