He handed the fragment to Nangong Shuang. "Take it. This was meant for someone fated to receive it. You are of the Nangong Family bloodline and possess the Cold Poison Physique, making you the best successor for this scripture."
Nangong Shuang hesitated for a moment but still accepted the fragment. "Thank you, sir, for your generous gift. However, such a precious item is beyond my means to repay..."
"No need for thanks," Bai Cao waved his hand dismissively. "Your father saved my life years ago; this small token is nothing in comparison."
He turned and retrieved a small vial, pouring out three glossy black pills. "These are Bing Po Pills, which can temporarily suppress the Cold Poison's onset. However, they only address the symptoms and not the root cause; it's not a long-term solution."
Nangong Shuang expressed her gratitude and accepted the pills. Just as she was about to take her leave, Bai Cao suddenly lowered his voice. "Did you just escape from the Sixth Prince's residence?"
Nangong Shuang was taken aback. "How did you know, sir?"
"There have been rumors in the city that a mysterious woman was taken in by the Sixth Prince, who was then attacked by Zheng Yushi's men," Bai Cao said meaningfully. "Though the capital is large, news travels fast, especially regarding matters of the royal family."
Nangong Shuang's expression grew serious. "Do you know why Zheng Yushi is pursuing me so relentlessly?"
"Because of the Cold Poison within you and your potential knowledge of the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique's whereabouts," Bai Cao sighed. "This medical text relates to a significant royal secret. Your father met his demise after discovering this secret."
"What secret?" Nangong Shuang asked urgently.
Bai Cao glanced around and lowered his voice further. "It's a long story. In short, the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique records that the Cold Poison Physique is a special manifestation of the Royal Bloodline, appearing only once every few generations. Those who possess this physique can identify true dragon bloodlines if they master the Heavenly Fragrance technique."
"Royal Bloodline?" Nangong Shuang was shocked. "How can that be? My Nangong Family has been in medicine for generations and has never heard of any connection to the royal family."
"Royal secrets are not something ordinary people can know," Bai Cao said with a mysterious smile. "There are detailed records about this in the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique. If you can find this book, you will understand."
Nangong Shuang pondered deeply. This was quite similar to what the Sixth Prince had mentioned; it seemed that her family's extermination was indeed related to royal secrets.
"Right now, you are in danger," Bai Cao said seriously. "Zheng Yushi is from Shadow Pavilion and serves the Crown Prince. They have been investigating the whereabouts of the Heavenly Fragrance Life-Extending Technique and eliminating those in the know. With your Cold Poison Physique and being a descendant of Nangong, you naturally became their primary target."
"Shadow Pavilion?" Nangong Shuang recalled her father's message mentioning this organization. "Who are they?"
"A covert assassination organization dedicated to eliminating threats to the royal family," Bai Cao explained. "The extermination of your family ten years ago was their doing. Now that you've appeared in the capital, they certainly won't let you go."
Nangong Shuang clenched her fists, a glint of coldness in her eyes. "Thank you for informing me, sir. I will be cautious."
Bai Cao seemed to see through her thoughts. "If you seek revenge, you must first ensure your own safety. Once you've mastered the Five Elements Heart-Devouring Poison Classic, then plan your next steps."
Nangong Shuang nodded in agreement and carefully stored away the fragment and pills.
"By the way," Bai Cao seemed to remember something, "when practicing this technique, pay attention to three points: First, begin on a full moon night; second, there will be intense pain during practice that requires silver needles to relieve; third, although you'll be able to control poison after succeeding, your Cold Poison will become more active and require periodic outbreaks—do not forcefully suppress it."
Nangong Shuang committed these instructions to memory. "I will remember your teachings, sir."
"Let's go; it's safer to leave through the back door." Bai Cao opened a concealed small door. "Remember, when Feng Yu reappears, blood rain will follow. Be wary of Shadow Pavilion's people; they are everywhere."
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