Chapter 132: Mr. Wang Hu, I’d Like to Speak with You Alone

Back at the office in the Bengjian Market, Professor Wang motioned for me to follow him into a small conference room nearby. He closed the door, a look of solemnity crossing his face.

"Mr. Wang Hu," he began, "I know you possess a wealth of experience and intuition in this field, but I must know—how did you discover that underground cavity?"

"And about that photocopy—do you truly not have the original?"

I pondered for a moment before replying, "Professor, it wasn't entirely intuition. I did some homework before entering the cave. I learned that the geological structure of this area is quite complex, with many underground voids and faults, so I was particularly attentive to vibrations and changes in the ground."

Professor Wang paused, then said, "But as far as I know... you dropped out of school before finishing middle school..."

My expression shifted slightly, and I smiled. After all, at Professor Wang’s level, investigating me was child's play. He clearly possessed the air of an old pedant; speaking so bluntly to my face showed a distinct lack of social finesse. However, I wasn't in research, so it didn't really matter to me.

I didn't tell him the truth, simply replying, "I truly do not have the original!"

Hearing this, Professor Wang lowered his head, looking quite disappointed. He immediately added, "Wang Hu, we share the same surname, so I’ll be direct. I believe this map fragment is of great significance. If you can find the original, it would be a monumental achievement!"

I smiled and probed, "Why would it be a monumental achievement?"

Professor Wang raised his head, his eyes showing an unconcealable flash of excitement. He said slowly, "The address indicated on this fragment is very precise. It is clearly a map of jade veins compiled by a highly professional organization. Based on my research and conjecture, this organization might be the Ancient Jade Guild."

"The Ancient Jade Guild?"

This was the first time I had heard this name from someone I had just met. But that single sentence told me that it seemed I would be having a much more in-depth exchange with this Professor Wang.

Professor Wang nodded and continued, "Yes, the Ancient Jade Guild. Their existence has always been a mystery, but according to historical records and documents, they truly possessed extraordinary attainments in the field of jade. If this map is indeed a remnant of theirs, then its value is immeasurable."

"Is the Ancient Jade Guild really that impressive?" I looked at Professor Wang and asked slowly.

Professor Wang nodded. "The Ancient Jade Guild was a folk organization with a very wide reach. Its peak was during the Ming and Qing dynasties. They were not only powerful among the common people, but even the Imperial Workshop in the palace had intricate ties with them!"

Hearing this, I furrowed my brows. To be honest, I truly hadn't expected Professor Wang to go that far.

I replied slowly, "I sell jade myself, and I've always found this trade difficult. Hearing you say this, I never realized our founding masters were so formidable!"

Professor Wang said in a deep voice, "They were more than just formidable. During the Qing Dynasty, the Qianlong Emperor—the 'Old Man of Ten Perfects'—adored jade above all else. In his daily life, if he could use jade, he would use nothing else!"

I fell silent for a moment, my mind racing with thoughts. The way Professor Wang was currently singing the praises of the Ancient Jade Guild made me feel a bit awkward. If this old man knew that I was the current successor of the Ancient Jade Guild, he would probably laugh his head off.

However, Professor Wang clearly didn't notice my expression. He continued, "The legends of the Ancient Jade Guild have always attracted countless explorers and scholars. If this map is truly their relic, then finding the original is not just a great achievement; it might even uncover many unknown secrets."

"Professor," I said slowly, "if this really is a map from the Ancient Jade Guild, then we must find the original. This is not just for research, but to protect such precious cultural heritage."

Professor Wang revealed an approving smile and patted my shoulder. "You are right, Wang Hu. We must work together to find the original map and leave this precious treasure for future generations."

I nodded, though internally I thought, *Future generations? Why would I give something I obtained to future generations?*

Professor Wang looked at me, somewhat excited, and walked over to pat my shoulder again. "There aren't many young people today with your level of awareness, Mr. Wang Hu. I actually know what you mean. This Bengjian Market is currently a third-rate market, but as long as our Museum of Ancient Jade Vein Relics is built here, the attention and professionalism of this market will improve significantly!"

"You are a very ambitious young man; the jade industry is exactly in need of talent like you. I believe this trip won't be in vain. As long as we find results while excavating the jade veins, I will certainly cooperate with your work. Let’s strive for a win-win!"

I smiled and extended my hand. Professor Wang shook it, expressing his gratitude. He continued, "Tomorrow's exploration might be even more dangerous, but I believe that as long as we are cautious, we will surely make some discoveries. Of course, I also hope you will use your abilities to come down and take a look with us!"

I smiled: "I wouldn't have it any other way!"

Just as I finished speaking, I suddenly heard a rustling sound outside the door.

I gave a light cough and said, "Pan Ximi, can you stop being so sneaky every day?"

Professor Wang was slightly taken aback. The next moment, the door was pushed open, and Pan Ximi appeared, looking embarrassed. "It's not like that, Brother Hu. I actually had something to ask you, and I just happened to bump into you two talking... I was wondering whether or not to come in!"

Hearing this, Professor Wang said, "Since you two have business, I will take my leave! See you tomorrow, Mr. Wang Hu."

I nodded in farewell. But just as Professor Wang was about to step out, Pan Ximi suddenly spoke up: "Wait, Professor!"

Professor Wang turned back, and Pan Ximi looked at him with a smile. "Professor, I... I'm a returned overseas Chinese. Could you give me a chance to go underground with you?"

Professor Wang paused, looking at Pan Ximi, who looked rather like a large rat. He then looked at me, and I nodded. "He is indeed a returned overseas Chinese..."

Professor Wang thought for a moment and looked at me. "If you want to go, it depends on whether Mr. Wang Hu agrees. But I must say in advance, our academy will not be responsible for your safety!"

Pan Ximi smiled. "Don't worry, Professor. I may not have any virtues, but I do have a knack for surviving..."

Professor Wang didn't say anything more and closed the door as he left. I looked at Pan Ximi and said slowly, "What brings you here so late?"

Pan Ximi looked at me, acting all coy and hesitant.

"If you have something to say, say it. Don't stand there acting all bashful!"

Pan Ximi chuckled and said, "Chief, our security team is out of money. Could you provide some funds?"