Chapter Ninety: The Bronze Incense Burner

Although Qin Feng had never seen the legendary Soaring Dragon Jade in person, he had browsed richly illustrated articles about it online. He remembered that this was a jade artifact worn by ancient emperors of the Great Xia dynasty.

Soaring Dragon Jade, as the name implies, was a dragon-shaped pendant. It was said to possess a delicate texture, translucent brilliance, a gentle luster, and an aura of vitality. Formed naturally, it was an extraordinarily rare and exquisite gemstone. Such supreme jade was scarce even in history, making it a coveted treasure among collectors.

Before coming here, he had already unearthed a piece, intending to use it as the centerpiece when Tianfeng Pavilion opened. When the day came, whether customers came to purchase antique calligraphy or paintings, or whether merchants arrived merely to stir up trouble, they would surely be awed into retreat. After all, those who frequented Panjiayuan were generally people of wealth and influence, unwilling to squander money on a pile of fakes to fool others.

“Yes, this piece of jade will do. Let’s set it aside for now,” Qin Feng murmured, after a careful inspection, nodding in satisfaction as he put away the Soaring Dragon Jade.

Leaving Tianfeng Pavilion, Qin Feng returned directly to his rented courtyard, tidied up briefly, and set about preparing for the grand opening. There was much to do, and the first order of business was to replenish the shop’s stock.

He was well-acquainted with the antique markets around Panjiayuan, familiar with each shop owner and their particular specialties. He knew exactly which shops offered genuine articles, and which were a mix of authentic and counterfeit wares. This time, he planned to visit Old Li’s shop first.

Old Li was an honest and upright man. Though his store was small, his goods were genuine and fairly priced, earning him a modest reputation and the trust of many customers in Panjiayuan.

“Well, if it isn’t Boss Qin! What brings you to my humble shop today?” As soon as Qin Feng entered, Old Li greeted him warmly, his face beaming with a cheerful smile.

“My new shop is about to open,” Qin Feng replied with a friendly grin, “so I thought I’d come see if you’ve got anything worthwhile.”

“Haha, say no more! Everyone knows Boss Qin has a keen eye—only you can spot the real treasures in my little shop!” Old Li laughed heartily, welcoming Qin Feng inside.

Qin Feng didn’t stand on ceremony, heading straight to the shelves to inspect the wares. His discerning gaze and seasoned experience allowed him to quickly identify the authenticity, age, and approximate value of each antique he handled. Soon, several well-preserved items found their way into his collection.

As Qin Feng and Old Li began discussing prices, a sharp and caustic voice suddenly interrupted.

“Well, if it isn’t Boss Qin himself. What makes you interested in the goods of such a small shop?” Qin Feng didn’t need to turn around; he knew exactly who had arrived. That repulsive tone could only belong to Liu Ma.

He turned slowly, seeing Liu Ma swagger in with several cronies, a sickly, sycophantic smile plastered across his face.

“What, must I report to you every time I hunt for treasures?” Qin Feng shot Liu Ma a cold glance, his tone dripping with undisguised disdain.

“Oh, not at all. Someone as wealthy as Boss Qin wouldn’t bother with the likes of us small timers,” Liu Ma replied sarcastically, a hint of malice flickering in his eyes.

“If you know your place, then keep out of the way and don’t be an eyesore,” Qin Feng retorted, giving Liu Ma no quarter.

“You—” Liu Ma’s face flushed with anger, but he dared not erupt. He settled for glaring at Qin Feng before making a show of browsing the shop.

Qin Feng ignored his antics and continued negotiating with Old Li. Both men were straightforward, and agreement was reached quickly.

“Boss Qin, are you sure you want this bronze incense burner?” As Qin Feng was about to pay, Liu Ma suddenly interjected, “I advise you to take a closer look. Don’t let yourself be fooled.”

Qin Feng frowned, recognizing Liu Ma’s attempt to stir up trouble, but he didn’t wish to argue. “My judgment doesn’t need your interference.”

“Heh, you said it yourself, Boss Qin,” Liu Ma sneered, “but to my eye, this incense burner looks like a fake.”

“Liu Ma, stop spouting nonsense!” Old Li, angered by the insinuation, erupted.

“I’ve always dealt honestly, never cheated anyone!” Old Li declared.

“Why so defensive, Old Li? I’m just kindly warning Boss Qin, lest he gets tricked without realizing it,” Liu Ma replied, feigning concern. “These days, the methods of forgery are ever more sophisticated. Even an old hand like me can be fooled, let alone Boss Qin.”

“What are you really trying to say?” Qin Feng’s gaze grew icy as he stared at Liu Ma, his voice tinged with anger.

“Heh, nothing much, just a reminder: caution is the mother of safety. The waters of the antique market run deep—one careless step and you’ll capsize,” Liu Ma mocked, his eyes full of provocation and smugness.

“Stop fearmongering!” Old Li raged, pointing at Liu Ma. “If you’re so sure, show your evidence instead of slandering!”

“Liu Ma, your mouth is only slightly cleaner than a latrine,” Qin Feng sneered, pulling out a pack of cigarettes, lighting one and taking a deep drag before speaking lazily.

“You claim this incense burner is fake—then tell us, what’s false about it?”

Liu Ma felt uneasy at Qin Feng’s calm demeanor. But emboldened by the backing of Old Zhao, he cleared his throat and pointed at the incense burner.

“Let’s make a bet. If it’s genuine, I’ll give you a million, and compensate Old Li for any losses. How about that?”

“Oh? And if it’s fake?” Qin Feng smiled, eyes gleaming.

“If it’s fake…” Liu Ma hesitated, his eyes darting as he calculated his options. “If it’s fake, you owe me a million, and apologize. Deal?”

The crowd watching the drama whispered among themselves, thinking Liu Ma’s terms were far too harsh—obviously an attempt to extort Qin Feng.

Old Li grew anxious, about to object, but Qin Feng stopped him with a gesture.

“All right, I accept!” Qin Feng declared, his eyes flashing with shrewdness.