Of course, if the cost was too high, he felt it would be better to forget about it.
Prime Minister Cao took out a piece of jade and placed it in Shen Bai's hand. "I've left a residual image within this jade," he explained. "If you get close to the Ten Thousand Ancient Books, the jade will react, emitting a soft glow and becoming slightly warm."
"Just keep this piece of jade with you."
Shen Bai felt the piece of jade, finding its surface to be extremely smooth.
A warm energy flowed continuously within it—the work of a Scholar, it seemed.
After a moment's thought, Shen Bai put the piece of jade away. "No problem," he said. "I'll take this on. If it's within my power, I'll be sure to bring it out and give it to you, Lord Prime Minister."
Prime Minister Cao asked, "Aren't you going to ask what your reward will be?"
Shen Bai shook his head. "Anything you offer, Lord Prime Minister, will surely be extraordinary. I don't need to ask. I'm certain you'll treat me well."
