At dawn the following day, the monumental doors of the Imperial Treasure Pavilion opened with a heavy groan of bronze and stone. The structure, an eight-sided, nine-story tower carved directly into the heart of the sacred mountain, emanated a mystic pressure so dense that the surrounding air vibrated with flickers of refined spiritual energy.
Ethan walked down the main corridor accompanied by Isabella, leaving behind the shadow guard sentinels who stood watch at the threshold.
"Three days...", whispered Isabella, gazing in awe at the rows of floating shelves where jade-engraved cultivation manuals, Healing-grade elixir vials, and relics from forgotten eras rested. "Normally, imperial princes are only allowed one hour in the lower floors. Having complete access for three full days is a rare opportunity."
