Chapter 304: Golden Mansion and Beauty Like Jade

In Desolate Ancient City, within the Myriad Book Pavilion.

Xu Caichen had no idea how many books he had read on the third floor. These were all ancient classics left behind from the city's former days, many of which were rare, peerless masterpieces.

The more he read, the more excited he became, completely immersed in the ocean of knowledge. His cultivation also advanced unknowingly.

Just as Xu Caichen set down the final book, a realization dawned in his heart.

He immediately sat cross-legged and began to cultivate. Dozens of days passed.

Xu Caichen slowly opened his eyes and murmured, “Finally, second level of Spirit Nurturing.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the voice of the artifact spirit sounded beside him.

“Caichen, this old man can see that you’ve not only broken through, but your literary intent has also reached a new height.”

Xu Caichen rose and respectfully cupped his hands toward the artifact spirit. “Senior, my literary intent has indeed reached perfection, and the Righteous Energy Technique I cultivated has also been completed. This progress is thanks to your guidance.”

The artifact spirit waved its hand. “No need for such formality. You letting me read those eternal masterpieces benefited me immensely.”

After pausing, it continued, “According to the rules of this Myriad Book Pavilion, I still must test you. If you pass, you may select a treasure from the pavilion.”

Upon hearing this, Xu Caichen cupped his hands once more. “Please, Senior, test me.”

“Very well.”

The artifact spirit began testing Xu Caichen’s knowledge.

One man and one artifact spirit, question and answer—before they knew it, seven days and nights had passed.

“Excellent, excellent!”

The artifact spirit praised him twice after hearing Xu Caichen’s final answer.

“In all my years within the Myriad Book Pavilion, you’re the first I’ve seen with such passion for study. It's a pity Desolate Ancient City once had no disciples like you.”

Hearing this, Xu Caichen instinctively asked, “Senior, knowing I’m not a disciple of Desolate Ancient City, why do you offer me such generous guidance?”

The artifact spirit smiled. “Desolate Ancient City was destroyed countless ages ago. I have survived only because I am spirit, not flesh. What meaning is there in clinging to whether someone belongs to the city or not?”

Upon hearing this, Xu Caichen bowed respectfully. “Senior’s broad-mindedness commands my respect.”

“Enough of that. Come with me.”

As it spoke, the artifact spirit led him deep into the third floor of the Myriad Book Pavilion. Soon, a hidden compartment opened.

Inside were two boxes. The artifact spirit casually opened them both.

From one of the boxes, golden light radiated. A miniature golden palace, emitting sacred brilliance, appeared before Xu Caichen—it was forged entirely from gold.

In the other box lay a rare and beautiful piece of jade, emanating a warm energy that made one instinctively want to carry it close.

The artifact spirit began its introduction. “As the saying goes: ‘Within books, there are golden mansions and beauties like jade.’ This Golden Mansion is a quasi-divine artifact. It can be used in battle, or as a residence, and travels a hundred thousand li per day—truly a peerless treasure.

“As for this jade, it is called the Immortal Jade. It is said that the first City Lord of Desolate Ancient City received it from the Desolate Ancient Emperor. It carries the aura of an Immortal Emperor and is said to have the power to reconstruct a soul's physical body and bring the dead back to life. However, only women can use it.”

After hearing the artifact spirit’s explanation, Xu Caichen spoke without hesitation, “Senior, I choose the Immortal Jade.”

“Oh?”

The artifact spirit asked curiously, “May this old one know the reason behind your choice?”

Xu Caichen smiled and said, “No other reason—only that I wish to bring my wife back from the dead.”

As he spoke the word “wife,” deep affection surfaced in both his expression and eyes.

“Would you tell this old man your love story? I’ve always enjoyed reading those romantic tales.”

After saying that, the artifact spirit realized it had misspoken, and an awkward but polite smile appeared on its face.

Xu Caichen didn’t hold back. He recounted his entire story to the artifact spirit without omission.

Previously, the artifact spirit had thought this young man’s loyalty was just words—but now, it was genuinely impressed.

“Caichen, your life truly makes this old one envious. Since that’s the case, take both the Golden Mansion and the Immortal Jade with you.”

Xu Caichen offered a slight bow. “I appreciate your kindness, Senior, but I cannot accept both. After all, those are the rules of the Myriad Book Pavilion.”

Hearing this, the artifact spirit said in a slightly exasperated tone, “What rules? Aren’t they mine to set? Once you leave, who knows how many years will pass before I see another soul? It’s rare for me to meet someone who suits my taste—just take the Golden Mansion.”

Seeing the elder get upset, Xu Caichen immediately replied, “A gift from an elder is not to be declined. Then I shall accept it with gratitude.”

“Now that’s more like it.”

The artifact spirit chuckled, waved its hand, and closed the two boxes, then casually handed them to Xu Caichen.

After storing the two treasures in his spatial ring, Xu Caichen retrieved the sacred wine his master had given him.

“Senior, we part today, and who knows when we’ll meet again. I’ve always had three great loves—beauties, literature, and fine wine. If you don’t mind, let us share a drink here today.”

“Gladly.”

The artifact spirit agreed without hesitation.

…

In a corner of the royal court.

Ye Beixuan looked at the harvest he’d obtained, a smile spreading across his face. In his past life, he hadn’t gained nearly so many fine treasures.

Nor had he uncovered the secret within the Primal Mirror. A few days ago, after perfecting his Primal Intent, he had inadvertently awakened the mirror’s spirit.

From the spirit, he learned that the imitation Primal Mirror in his possession was forged from fragments of the original, which was once a supreme immortal artifact.

To obtain the true Primal Mirror, he would need to find the remaining eight fragments.

After tidying up his belongings, Ye Beixuan decided to search for his fellow disciples. With his master’s Sword Jade guarding them, he was sure they would be safe.

…

In the Imperial Concubine Palace.

“Young one, my name is Samsara. As they say: Samsara is boundless…”

Chu Caiyi listened to the voice of the Samsara Demon God, comprehending the essence of Samsara. As the voice faded, she sensed a new true intent emerge within her.

She did not notice that within her divine sea, another layer of the seal on that mysterious woman’s body had shattered.

Opening her eyes slowly, she saw Qin Qin nearby, then rose and bowed respectfully. “Many thanks, Senior Sister, for protecting me.”

Qin Qin smiled and replied, “No need for courtesy, junior sister. Did you gain anything this time?”

Chu Caiyi said, “To be honest, I made contact with another Chaos Demon God and grasped its demonic power.”

Qin Qin: “…”

All she felt now was envy. Junior Sister Caiyi truly lived up to being a disciple who could stir even the dean.

Still, she quickly composed herself. Over the past two and a half years, she too had achieved much. Her musical intent had reached perfection, and even the World-Ending Eye was showing signs of a breakthrough.

Qin Qin smiled and said, “In that case, junior sister, let’s go and find our fellow disciples together.”

“Mm.”

Chu Caiyi nodded and left the underground palace with Qin Qin.

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