How should we handle this?

Of course, we should exchange it for benefits; otherwise, why would I risk so much and venture into the desert?

Though he naturally wouldn't say this directly to Wei Xueming.

"Wei Lao, what is your opinion?" Qi Yun asked tentatively.

Wei Xueming picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip, looked at Qi Yun, and said slowly, "The Qingnang Book has two major values: first, it can advance the development of medicine, and second, its historical value."

Qi Yun nodded silently, waiting for the other to continue.

"If this Qingnang Book ends up in the hands of a collector, it would be tantamount to burying its intrinsic value. Only in the hands of the nation can it fulfill its deserved function."

Qi Yun understood and replied with a sarcastic smile, "Oh? Are you going to do the same old tricks again?"

Wei Xueming wasn't angry, he waved his hand, "Don't misunderstand me. If it were something else, even if its monetary value is higher, I wouldn't advise you like this."

"Honestly, you might not yet fully understand the value of this book. Once the news is leaked, you might not be able to keep it."

Upon hearing this, Qi Yun frowned, his heart alarmed.

However, his face remained calm, he said in a deep voice, "Wei Lao, I know you mean well for me, but I went through a lot of trouble to get this Qingnang Book, I'm really not willing to just hand it over."

Wei Xueming shook his head slightly and said seriously, "Qi Yun, you don't understand yet."

"The value of the Qingnang Book is too high. Once the news leaks, domestic or foreign forces, and some ill-intentioned people will try every possible way to get it."

"Your power alone is ultimately limited. Can you resist those who are eyeing it covetously?"

Qi Yun gritted his teeth, feeling a bit conflicted inside.

Previously, he was just thinking about finding the item, quietly handling it, and exchanging it for millions.

But after Wei Xueming's statement, he suddenly realized he truly underestimated the book's value.

If it's really as Wei Xueming said, even if the national machine stays out, other forces might secretly covet it, and he might not even have the chance to sell it, instead, it could bring him trouble.

Wei Xueming noticed his hesitation and continued, "If you trust me, I can help you think of a compromise."

"Wei Lao, of course I trust you, otherwise I wouldn't have brought the book to you first." Qi Yun said with a bitter smile, "So just say it directly."

Wei Xueming nodded, "Don't even mention Bird City; even Jiang Province can't keep it, and they won't give you much compensation either."

He paused, took a sip of tea, and continued, "You should know the strength of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; I have an old friend there, I can help you contact them to discuss this book."

He had long understood this kid's nature, knew that playing moral coercion wouldn't work, so he directly proposed a suggestion the other might accept.

"Chinese Academy of Sciences?" Qi Yun was taken aback, not expecting the old fellow to have such connections.

If it's that institution, they shouldn't be short on money, not like the last museum, making him rack his brains.

After pondering for a moment, Qi Yun considered the proposal to be a feasible solution.

If his interests can be safeguarded and the treasure can end up where it should, unleashing its rightful value, it's a win-win situation.

So he nodded and agreed, "Okay, but I have one more request."

"Go ahead." Wei Xueming, seeing him agree, felt joyful, really worried the kid might rashly let the treasure fall overseas.

"I have no problem talking to the people from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, but this matter must remain confidential, only known to those responsible for it." Qi Yun was now a bit paranoid, worried that Yu Qixuan, that stingy old man, might sniff it out and come over again.

"Don't worry about that." Wei Xueming quickly nodded, "I can assure you, before the matter is settled, no information will leak."

"Although the Qingnang Book is very precious, in such places, it's not without items of the same level."

Hearing this reassurance, Qi Yun finally felt relieved and replied, "Okay, I'll leave this matter to Wei Lao then."

"Alright." Wei Xueming stood up and patted Qi Yun's shoulder, "You go back and think it over carefully, I estimate someone will come today once they get the message."

He was concise with his words, believing Qi Yun's astuteness would understand his implication.

Leaving Wei Xueming's office, Qi Yun returned to his car, lit a cigarette, and began contemplating deeply.

He knew this was a rare opportunity; given that department's power, they could fulfill many of his demands beyond money.

What does he lack currently?

After thinking for a while, he gradually formed a plan.

Then he picked up his phone and dialed Mr. Bi, arranging to meet at Shi Feng's antique shop.

...

Inside Qiuyue Pavilion, Shi Feng was polishing a porcelain vase. Seeing Qi Yun enter, he shook the few remaining hairs on his head and teased, "Oh, a rare guest. Tried contacting you for a gathering a few days ago, but couldn't reach you. What's got you showing up today?"

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