Nangong Shuang took out the jade pendant and gently traced the plum blossom pattern on it. "The inscription on this pendant is undoubtedly my father's handwriting. There is no doubt about that. As for my origins... Old Daoist has no need to fabricate such a bizarre story to deceive me."
Qiao Er nodded. "If you truly are of Royal Bloodline, then your situation will be even more perilous. Those who wish to see you dead will certainly not give up easily."
Nangong Shuang's expression grew serious. "Yes, that's why I must find more evidence and uncover the truth as soon as possible. The Meiyuan Gathering in three days may be a turning point."
Qiao Er expressed her concern. "But Old Daoist also mentioned that danger lurks there. Although Xiao Gongzi saved you, he is still a member of the Xiao Family, and Xiao Xiang was involved in the massacre of the Nangong Family... Could there be a trap?"
After pondering for a moment, Nangong Shuang replied firmly, "I will attend the meeting, but I will be fully prepared. This time, I will not only bring people from the Azure Dragon Gang but also have various contingency plans in place."
As they walked and discussed their strategies, they unknowingly returned to the city. To avoid drawing attention, they did not head directly back to Guo Residence but took a few detours around the city, ensuring no one was following them before returning via a side path.
Upon arriving at Guo Residence, Nangong Shuang immediately summoned Qiao Er into her room. After carefully checking every corner for listening devices, she whispered, "Do not tell anyone about this matter for now, including anyone in Guo Residence. I need time to process this news and gather more evidence regarding my origins."
Qiao Er nodded in agreement. "Rest assured, I will not reveal a word."
Nangong Shuang continued, "Tomorrow, go to the Azure Dragon Gang and inform Han Gangzhu that we need him to send some capable subordinates to lie in ambush around Mei Garden three days from now, just in case."
Qiao Er agreed and then asked, "What about Xiao Gongzi?"
Nangong Shuang thought for a moment before responding, "For now, we will proceed as planned. I will attend the meeting but will not fully trust him. Until the truth is revealed, I cannot take anyone at their word."
Once everything was arranged, Nangong Shuang sat alone by the window, gazing at the moonlight outside with a myriad of thoughts swirling in her mind. If she truly was of Royal Bloodline, then the massacre of the Nangong Family was not merely a political persecution but an assassination aimed at her! And the mastermind behind it could very well be a prominent figure in the current court—someone unwilling to see another heir emerge from the royal family.
"Father, Mother," Nangong Shuang whispered softly, "I will uncover the truth and seek justice for you."
She gently stroked the Plum Blossom Birthmark on her wrist—once regarded as an ordinary birthmark, it had now become key to her identity mystery. The plum blossom, blooming defiantly in winter's chill, symbolized resilience and purity. Perhaps this was why her father had named her Nangong Shuang.
As night deepened, Nangong Shuang found herself unable to sleep. What twists would the Meiyuan Gathering bring in three days? What was the important matter that Xiao Zhongyan spoke of? Did he genuinely want to help her or did he have ulterior motives?
So many questions and mysteries remained unanswered.
Nangong Shuang clenched the jade pendant tightly, resolute: no matter what dangers lay ahead, she would face them bravely. For the souls of the Nangong Family, for her true identity, and for that possible Royal Bloodline.
Three days later at the Meiyuan Gathering—she would definitely go. There might be danger there, but it also held the promise of truth. And she was ready to meet any challenge that came her way.
Outside, a gust of wind blew through, causing several plum blossom petals to drift down like whispers of fate arriving quietly.
The events surrounding Bai Lu Guan left Nangong Shuang restless. She sat alone by the window with the jade pendant in hand, repeatedly contemplating Old Daoist's words.
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