C16 Treasure Evaluation Conference

The host resumed his performance, and Cao Jiang was once again enveloped by that familiar voice.

"Master, the gemstone appraisal system has been activated for you," the system hummed in Cao Jiang's mind.

The host, along with several staff members, lifted the cover, announcing, "Let's give a round of warm applause to celebrate the official start of the Treasure Evaluation Conference."

The audience clapped vigorously, yet Ye Guoli's expression remained grim.

Cao Jiang, without a moment's hesitation, examined the jade carving before him.

The jade was rounded and smooth, seemingly saturated with moisture, its luster indicative of top-quality old pit jade.

Noticing Cao Jiang's keen interest in the piece, the host swiftly moved on to the treasure appraisal.

Displayed before the crowd were several jade statues and an array of jewelry.

Bathed in the light, the jewels shone with a crystalline purity, their rarity and value a testament to a century of an artist's dedication.

"Now, let's have Mr. Cao describe each piece of jewelry for us," the host said before stepping down from the stage.

The stage belonged solely to Cao Jiang, who was visibly thrilled and eager to begin.

Ye Guoli felt a pang of annoyance but was still keen to see Cao Jiang embarrass himself by the end.

Cao Jiang, magnifying glass in hand, scrutinized the jewelry before finally speaking. "This is a four-piece jewelry set, each item adorned with a peony flower pattern."

The audience came to a realization; not many among them were connoisseurs of jewelry. Most were there merely for the experience, with few genuine enthusiasts.

Unfazed by the audience's scrutiny, Cao Jiang continued, "Firstly, the necklace in this set features a unique and imaginative design. The 'figure-eight' arrangement transitions from larger to smaller elements, creating a harmonious composition."

The host took a closer look and saw that, indeed, it was just as Cao Jiang had described, dispelling any previous skepticism he had harbored.

His face beamed with admiration as he quoted Bai Juyi's high praise for the osmanthus: "From afar, I know the osmanthus in heaven is lonely, but I wonder if Chang'e desires it even more." It is said that the fragrance of osmanthus can drift for miles when in bloom. This design will surely set everyone apart."

Cao Jiang concluded his speech with eloquence, and the audience erupted in continuous applause. Ye Guoli, on the other hand, was left speechless.

He had clearly underestimated Cao Jiang, whose strength was not to be taken lightly. Some even went over to Ye Guoli to rebuke him.

The Treasure Evaluation Conference was in full swing, and following Cao Jiang's compelling explanation, a distinguished lady promptly bid on the set of jewelry.

Ye Guoli stood up abruptly: "You haven't even finished college. How could you possibly know the origin of this jewelry set? Are you just making it up?"

Everyone was aware that Ye Guoli was deliberately trying to trip up Cao Jiang, but given Cao Jiang's considerable influence, it was difficult to speak out.

Cao Jiang, however, met the challenge with a smile and a clever retort: "History is filled with tales of nobility emerging from humble beginnings. My grandfather's guidance was invaluable, and though I never attended university, I am self-taught. Do you have any further doubts?"

Cao Jiang's response only deepened the crowd's respect for him. They were amazed that such a young man could possess such resolve.

Ye Guoli was left utterly speechless by Cao Jiang's comeback, slumping back into his seat, his eyes nearly popping out.

The noblewoman who had won the jewelry approached and remarked, "Why don't you take a good look at yourself in the mirror before you go around biting people all day?"

Her blunt words struck a chord, and Ye Guoli, now even more infuriated, turned on his heel, ready to storm off.

It was only then that he remembered his purpose for being there. Grudgingly, he sat back down, and Cao Jiang took note of it all.

The auction moved on to the next item, with Cao Jiang shifting his attention to the antiques.

The audience turned their focus back to the stage, leaving Ye Guoli sitting in the corner, looking every bit the fool.

Jewelry after jewelry was eagerly snapped up as Cao Jiang appraised each piece at the auction. This Treasure Evaluation Conference was shaping up to be the most successful one yet, if only Ye Guoli hadn't stirred up trouble, it could have been even better.

During the intermission, a crowd of attendees approached Cao Jiang, eager to exchange contact information and hoping to collaborate and learn more about treasure appraisal in the future.

Cao Jiang, recognizing the opportunity, graciously shared his WeChat QR code, prompting a rush of people to scan it eagerly.

The host was no exception. Having presided over many such events, he regarded Cao Jiang as the most outstanding appraiser he had encountered. He too secured Cao Jiang's WeChat details and tucked his phone away contentedly.

As the final auction commenced and the conference neared its conclusion, the audience was eager to see the grand finale piece.

Unexpectedly, the host retrieved a wooden box from the cabinet, revealing an unassuming ancient artifact. It bore the marks of antiquity, having been steeped in history for decades, and it seemed to exude an air of age-old wear.

The crowd buzzed with speculation, their initial curiosity fading as they struggled to identify the item.

It was then that Cao Jiang spoke up, "Seeing as everyone has had such fruitful gains today, I would like to acquire this antique, if no one objects."

His earlier generosity now made sense; it had all been a prelude to this moment. Some attendees marveled at Cao Jiang's savvy, showering him with compliments.

Ye Guoli suddenly realized that this inconspicuous artifact was precisely what his elder had sent him to procure. In a panic, and with no regard for decorum, he leaped onto the stage.

Seizing Cao Jiang's sleeve, he bellowed, "Cao Jiang, you cur, release our elder's possession! You have no right to it!"

Cao Jiang's brow furrowed, a shadow of displeasure crossing his face, sending a shiver through the onlookers.

The crowd's dissatisfaction with Ye Guoli was palpable; they had witnessed all the obstacles he had placed in Cao Jiang's path. Yet, Cao Jiang himself seemed to rise above the pettiness.

Ye Guoli overstepped his bounds, "Ye Guoli, get down here! This is the Treasure Evaluation Conference for the state-owned enterprise. It's going to be in the news. With you looking like that, it's a wonder your old man hasn't ascended to heaven in embarrassment."

It was at this point that Ye Guoli grasped the gravity of the situation. Cao Jiang, with quick reflexes, tossed him off the stage.

The sight of Ye Guoli's discomfiture was quite a spectacle. "Well, Boss Ye is nothing special after all. Seems like he's too frail and could do with some more exercise," Cao Jiang remarked with a sardonic grin.

The crowd's opinion of Cao Jiang soared; they saw him as no ordinary man and believed he was destined for greatness.

The host quickly directed the camera crew to edit out the unsightly footage. Shortly thereafter, the Treasure Evaluation Conference came to a close.

As the audience gradually dispersed, Cao Jiang diligently packed up the antique, a task entrusted to him by Qin Danfeng.

When in need of assistance, one must show gratitude and focus on the task at hand. Cao Jiang had always been true to his word.