The Old Daoist took out a piece of jade from his bosom and handed it to Nangong Shuang. "This jade pendant is a token left for you by the late emperor. Ten years ago, when the Nangong Family faced disaster, I happened to be visiting the Nangong Mansion. Nangong Laoye entrusted this item to me, saying that if you ever came looking for it, I should give it to you."
Nangong Shuang accepted the pendant and saw that it was a piece of warm white jade, intricately carved with a plum blossom that looked exactly like the birthmark on her wrist. On the back of the pendant were two small characters: "Nangong Shuang."
Seeing the handwriting, Nangong Shuang's tears flowed uncontrollably. This was unmistakably her father's handwriting! The pendant was indeed a gift from him.
"Then... who is my birth mother?" Nangong Shuang choked out.
The Old Daoist shook his head. "I do not know either. It is said that the palace maid passed away shortly after giving birth to you, but whether she died of illness or was harmed by someone remains unknown."
Qiao Er, who had been listening nearby, was dumbfounded and looked at Nangong Shuang in disbelief. "Miss... you are actually... of royal blood?"
Nangong Shuang was equally bewildered; this sudden revelation about her identity was too much for her to process.
"If I truly am of Royal Bloodline, then those who exterminated the Nangong Family must be... the royal family?" Nangong Shuang asked with difficulty.
The Old Daoist shook his head again. "Not at all. The late emperor cared deeply for you; how could he harm you? The ones truly wanting you dead are those who fear your bloodline identity. Once your true heritage is revealed, certain individuals' positions will be threatened."
"Certain individuals? Like who?" Nangong Shuang pressed.
The Old Daoist glanced around and lowered his voice. "This matter is far-reaching; it would not be wise for me to say more. But remember, the Plum Blossom Birthmark on your wrist is a secret mark of the royal family, possessed only by direct descendants. Because of this, there are those who wish to eliminate you completely."
Nangong Shuang pondered for a moment before asking, "What role does the Xiao Family play in this matter?"
The Old Daoist contemplated before replying, "Xiao Xiang did indeed participate in the extermination of the Nangong Family, but he was merely an executor, not the mastermind. As for who the true mastermind is, you will need to investigate on your own. However, Xiao Zhongyan, the Second Young Master of the Xiao Family, can be trusted."
Nangong Shuang's heart stirred. "Why?"
"Because he is also seeking the truth about the Nangong Family," the Old Daoist said meaningfully. "Moreover, he harbors good intentions towards you."
Nangong Shuang felt her cheeks flush and did not respond. Qiao Er could not help but ask, "What should Miss do now?"
The Old Daoist thought for a moment before saying seriously, "First and foremost, you must protect yourself. Once your identity is exposed, danger will increase significantly. Secondly, you need to gather more evidence to prove your heritage. Finally, you must find out who truly wants you dead; otherwise, you will never find peace."
Nangong Shuang nodded and carefully tucked the jade pendant into her bosom. "Thank you for your guidance, Daoist. Is there any other advice?"
The Old Daoist pondered briefly before saying, "You must attend the Meiyuan Gathering in three days. There you will find answers you need, but it also conceals dangers. Be cautious and do not trust anyone easily."
Nangong Shuang looked at the Old Daoist in surprise. "How do you know about the Meiyuan Gathering?"
The Old Daoist smiled mysteriously. "I am skilled in divination and can see through hidden truths. Remember that danger coexists with opportunity; at critical moments, trust your instincts."
After expressing her gratitude once more, Nangong Shuang left Bai Lu Guan with Qiao Er. On their way down the mountain, both were silent as they contemplated the Old Daoist's words.
"Miss, do you really believe what that Old Daoist said?" Qiao Er finally couldn't hold back from asking.
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