“Shadow Pavilion has moved again; it seems your whereabouts have been exposed,” Qiao Er said with concern. “The meeting at Mei Garden in three days is likely to be even more dangerous.”
Nangong Shuang nodded. “Yes, but I am more certain of one thing: the massacre of the Nangong Family is not merely a power struggle; it is a massive conspiracy involving the royal family. I must uncover the truth, not only for the Nangong Family, but also to understand my own origins.”
Upon returning to the Guo Residence, Nangong Shuang immediately hid her father's letter and the booklet, then began to study them carefully. Although the records in the booklet were scattered, Nangong Shuang gradually noticed some patterns. The term “Tai Ping Ling” was mentioned multiple times and seemed to refer to some kind of token or proof, while “Feng Yu Pavilion” might be the name of a secret organization.
More importantly, the booklet recorded several names of significant individuals, including Xiao Xiang and the current Prime Minister. These people appeared to be connected to an organization called “Tai Ping Hui,” whose goal was surprisingly to “overthrow the current dynasty”!
“This... this is too shocking,” Qiao Er gasped after reading the records. “Your father actually uncovered so many secrets; no wonder he faced such a tragic fate.”
Nangong Shuang pondered, “My father’s letter states that the massacre of the Nangong Family was not due to my origins, but because he discovered this enormous conspiracy. I may have just been caught up in it.”
“What does it mean when the blood letter says ‘the Xiao Family is also a victim’?” Qiao Er asked in confusion.
After thinking for a moment, Nangong Shuang replied, “Perhaps the Xiao Family did not intend to be involved in the massacre but was forced into it? Or maybe they discovered some secret and were silenced?”
Just then, a servant from Guo Residence came in with news that Xiao Gongzi had sent someone with a letter. Nangong Shuang took the letter and opened it; inside were only a few brief sentences: “The meeting at Mei Garden will proceed as scheduled tomorrow. There is important news to share. Xiao Zhongyan.”
“Are we still going?” Qiao Er asked.
After a moment of contemplation, Nangong Shuang nodded. “Yes. I am now even more certain that Xiao Zhongyan knows some key information. Moreover, he has saved me several times; he should not wish me harm.”
“But you also mentioned that while Xiao Gongzi has rescued you multiple times, he may have his own motives,” Qiao Er reminded her. “Besides, didn’t the blood letter say ‘do not trust appearances’?”
With a soft sigh, Nangong Shuang replied, “That’s why I said ‘go,’ but not without precautions. I will prepare thoroughly and ensure that members of the Azure Dragon Gang provide covert protection. If there is real danger, I can retreat safely.”
Seeing her decision made, Qiao Er said no more but cautioned, “You must be careful; your safety comes first.”
The following day, while studying her father’s booklet and preparing various countermeasures, Nangong Shuang brewed several antidotes and sleeping potions, sewed hidden pockets into her clothing, and applied a layer of special poison powder on her nails for emergencies.
News from the Azure Dragon Gang indicated that they had arranged for over ten skilled individuals to be stationed around Mei Garden, ready to assist at any moment. This brought some relief to Nangong Shuang.
Late at night, she sat alone by the window, staring blankly at the moonlight. What would happen at tomorrow's meeting at Mei Garden? What important news would Xiao Zhongyan share with her? These questions swirled in her mind and lingered.
At that moment, she inadvertently caught sight of the Plum Blossom Birthmark on her wrist; it had begun to change again! Under the moonlight, the skin surrounding the blossom glimmered slightly, forming a faint halo.
Surprised, Nangong Shuang raised her wrist for a closer look. The Plum Blossom Birthmark had transformed completely—the petals were clearer now, and at its center appeared a tiny symbol that resembled some ancient script.
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