"What on earth is this..." Nangong Shuang murmured to herself, her heart filled with shock. The Plum Blossom Birthmark was clearly not an ordinary birthmark, but rather some kind of special mark. Perhaps it was indeed, as the Old Daoist had said, a testament to her Royal Bloodline.
She gently touched the birthmark and felt a slight warmth. With her touch, the symbol seemed to become more pronounced, emitting a faint glow. Nangong Shuang couldn't help but utter, "Tai Ping..."
At the moment the name escaped her lips, the halo around the birthmark suddenly intensified before quickly fading back to its ordinary plum blossom shape. The entire process felt like an illusion, leaving her questioning whether it had truly happened.
Nangong Shuang rubbed her eyes, confirming that she had not misseen. This birthmark was indeed related to "Tai Ping"! No wonder her father's booklet mentioned it multiple times; it had been hidden on her body all along.
"Tai Ping... Tai Ping Hui... changing dynasties..." Nangong Shuang connected these words and vaguely guessed the truth behind the annihilation of the Nangong Family: her father might have discovered a secret organization intent on usurping power, and she, as a witness of the Royal Bloodline, naturally became a target that needed to be eliminated.
"So it wasn't the court that wiped out the Nangong Family ten years ago, but this mysterious organization?" Nangong Shuang spoke to herself. "And perhaps the Xiao Family was also forced to participate?"
All clues pointed to a horrifying conclusion: the Nangong Family Massacre Case from ten years ago and the current pursuit of her were part of a massive conspiracy concerning the change of imperial power.
This realization left Nangong Shuang both shocked and terrified. As a weak woman, she had become embroiled in such a grand power struggle! Yet at the same time, it strengthened her resolve to uncover the truth.
"Regardless, I must attend tomorrow's appointment at Mei Garden," Nangong Shuang resolved silently. "Xiao Zhongyan might know more about the situation and could be a key figure in my quest for truth."
As night deepened, Nangong Shuang lay in bed, tossing and turning restlessly. Tomorrow's meeting was not only about seeking justice for the Nangong Family but also about unraveling the mystery of her own identity. No matter how dangerous it might be ahead, she had to face it bravely.
The next morning, Nangong Shuang rose early and, with Qiao Er's help, carefully prepared herself. She chose a long dress in lake green—simple and elegant—neither too eye-catching nor cumbersome for movement. Her hair was styled simply with just a jade hairpin inserted, and around her waist was tied a light purple silk ribbon that discreetly concealed several silver needles for emergencies.
"Miss, everything is ready," Qiao Er whispered. "The Azure Dragon Gang has already ambushed around Mei Garden and is ready to act on command."
Nangong Shuang nodded. "You stay at home and keep the same schedule as the Guo Family so as not to raise suspicion. If I haven't returned by noon, take my father's letter and booklet to find Han Gangzhu and ask him to deliver them to the Crown Prince's Mansion."
Qiao Er expressed her concern: "Miss must be careful; don't take any risks."
Nangong Shuang reassured her, "Don't worry; I won't act recklessly. If there's danger, I'll retreat immediately."
After saying this, she took out a small porcelain bottle and poured out a few pills before swallowing them. This was her specially made "Calming Pill," which could refresh her mind and enhance her perception.
With everything prepared, Nangong Shuang quietly left Guo Residence and headed alone towards Chengxi Meiyuan. To avoid drawing attention, she deliberately chose several less-traveled paths, stopping occasionally to observe her surroundings and ensure no one was following her.
Mei Garden was located in a corner of the western city—a famous spot for appreciating plum blossoms in the capital. Although it was past the peak blooming season, there were still scattered plum blossoms adding charm to the garden. At this hour, there were few visitors—mostly elderly people idly passing time or small groups of young women chatting together.
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