The lingering scents of blood and fish have significantly diminished. Drawing from his past experience in antique disposal, Zhang Ermao recognizes that this smell closely resembles that of freshly excavated jade wares from the raw pit.<fn79c9> Discover more novels at find~novel</fn79c9>
Items unearthed from the pit, particrly those buried near a body, often carry this faint odor that persists even after thorough cleaning. No matter how much time passes—up to a year—there’s usually a subtle trace left behind. While most people may not detect anything, those like Zhang Ermao, who frequently handle antiques, can easily discern the scent.
The two jade pieces he found were indeed ancient artifacts. However, the presence of this odor leads knowledgeable individuals to deduce that these items originated from the pit.
Once he confirmed the authenticity of the items, Zhang Ermao quickly drove back to the city and headed straight for Antique Street.
In Aurous Hill’s antique trade, the traditional practice of operating at dawn and closing up by dusk is still honored. Insiders advise against conducting business after dark due to the fear of theft and other dangers thate with nighttime.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">
Consequently, vendors on Antique Street typically begin their day at sunrise and wrap up their stalls before the sun sets.
Today was Saturday, and when Zhang Ermao arrived, Antique Street was as lively as a bustling morning market.
As a familiar face in the antique scene, Zhang Ermao’s sudden return garnered attention. Many recognized him and greeted him enthusiastically: “Brother Ermao, what brings you back today?”
“That’s right, Brother Ermao! You’re now quite the figure alongside Hong Wuye. Why take the time to visit us, your less fortunate brothers?”
Zhang Ermao thought to himself, “When I was scammed on Antique Street, none of you showed me any respect. Back then, I was the subject of ridicule. Now that I’m linked to Hong Wuye, suddenly everyone calls me Brother Ermao.”
With that thought, Zhang Ermao smirked and addressed the crowd, “I need to rify that I’m no longer with Hong Wuye.”
“What?” The man who had just greeted him, now surprised, asked, “Zhang Ermao, you were doing so well with Hong Wuye! Why the sudden change?”
Another chimed in, “Seriously, Zhang Ermao, isn’t it better to feast with Hong Wuye than to struggle here on Antique Street?”
A woman selling imitation copper coins chuckled, “Zhang Ermao, did you perhaps run into some trouble? Has Master Hong been released?”
Zhang Ermao waved dismissively, “Let’s not dwell on that. I’m nning to return and set up my stall again.”
He then turned to the first man who had weed him, saying, “Mr. Four, since I’m back, I’d like my original stall back, which I’m lending to you for free while I was away.” The man known as Zhao Lao Si quickly shook his head and replied,
“Oh no, Zhang Ermao! When you left, you promised you wouldn’t return to Antique Street. I’ve been using this stall, and you can’t just go back on your word.”
Zhang Ermao chuckled, “Zhao, you think I’m a pushover? I need to rify that I left Hong Wuye voluntarily; it wasn’t he who forced me out but rather my own decision.”
“That sounds unlikely,” Zhao Lao Si scoffed. “We’ve known each other long enough for me to know when you’re trying to impress. You im you left willingly, but I’m not buying it.”
Zhang Ermaoughed and shared, “Let me be honest, Mr. Zhao. I used to be a regr guy making a decent living in antiques, but things have changed. I’ve be associated with a prominent businessman from Hong Kong who wants me to help sell antiques. We’re talking about high-stakes deals worth billions, not the small-time transactions we used to handle. This means big profits, potentially millions from a single sale! I could retire in a couple of years with just a modest goal, which sounds far better than the chaotic life with Master Hong.”
Upon hearing this, the group around him widened their eyes in astonishment.<h3 ss="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading" id="chapter-list"><strong></strong>