Book Synopsis
Book Tags
Donation Rankings
Comment
0 Comments
You May Also Like
墨書 Inktalez
The two quietly left the Guo Residence through the back door, heading towards Bai Lu Guan. Bai Lu Guan was located on a small hill thirty miles west of the city. It was not very popular, with only a few Taoists tending to it, but it was said that the Old Daoist within had considerable skills, able to predict and calculate, and knew many secrets.
"Miss, do you really think that Old Daoist can uncover the secret of your birthmark?" Qiao Er couldn't help but ask along the way.
Nangong Shuang forced a smile. "I don't know. But since Xiao Zhongyan specifically mentioned this place, there must be a reason."
The two remained cautious, constantly alert to their surroundings, fearing another encounter with the assassins from Shadow Pavilion. Fortunately, they traveled safely, and after about two hours, they finally arrived at Bai Lu Guan.
Bai Lu Guan was built halfway up the mountain; it was not large but exuded an ancient elegance, giving off an air of immortality. In front of the temple was an open area with several ancient pines. Underneath one of the pines stood a stone tablet inscribed with the words "White Deer Immortal Trace," though the characters were somewhat faded, clearly showing their age.
As they entered the temple, they found the courtyard empty, with not a single Taoist in sight.
"Is anyone here?" Nangong Shuang called softly.
There was no response.
Qiao Er looked worried. "Could it be that there's no one here?"
Just then, a young Dao Tong emerged from within the temple. He appeared to be around twelve or thirteen years old, with delicate features and holding a whisk. Upon seeing the two, he politely asked, "What brings you here, esteemed guests?"
Nangong Shuang returned the greeting. "Young Daoist, we wish to meet the Old Daoist in your temple. May I ask you to announce our arrival?"
The Dao Tong assessed them for a moment before nodding. "Please follow me. The Old Daoist has been expecting guests today and has been waiting for you in the back courtyard."
Nangong Shuang and Qiao Er exchanged surprised glances. The Old Daoist had anticipated their visit? This was intriguing.
Following the Dao Tong through several courtyards, they arrived at a small pavilion in the back yard. Inside sat an elderly man with white hair and beard, his complexion rosy and appearing to be in his seventies or eighties, leisurely sipping tea.
"Master, the guests have arrived," the Dao Tong reported respectfully.
The Old Daoist slowly set down his teacup and looked up at Nangong Shuang and Qiao Er with piercing eyes that seemed to see through their hearts. "Nangong Girl, you have finally come."
Nangong Shuang was taken aback. "You... you know me?"
The Old Daoist chuckled softly. "I may not know you personally, but I recognize the birthmark on your wrist. That Plum Blossom Mark is exceedingly rare—it's a clear sign of Royal Bloodline."
Hearing this made Nangong Shuang's heart race even more; it matched exactly what was written on Xiao Zhongyan's note!
"Royal Bloodline?" Nangong Shuang couldn't help but ask further, "What does that mean?"
The Old Daoist gestured for them to sit down and then dismissed the Dao Tong. Once they were alone, he slowly began to speak: "Do you know why the Nangong Family faced extermination?"
Nangong Shuang shook her head. "My father never mentioned it during his lifetime; I always thought it was due to political enemies."
The Old Daoist sighed deeply. "Not at all. The extermination of the Nangong Family appeared to be due to offending powerful figures, but in reality, it was because of a tremendous secret—your true heritage."
Nangong Shuang held her breath, waiting for the continuation.
The Old Daoist continued, “Eighteen years ago, the late Emperor had an affair with a palace maid and fathered a baby girl. To protect the dignity of the Empress, this matter was kept strictly confidential. However, to ensure the safety of the girl, the late Emperor secretly sent her to be raised by the Nangong Family, and that girl is you, Nangong Shuang.”
Nangong Shuang felt as if she had been struck by lightning, momentarily at a loss for how to react. She was a member of the royal bloodline? How could this be possible?
“No, this cannot be true,” Nangong Shuang instinctively shook her head. “My father has never mentioned this, and... and...”
Comment 0 Comment Count