64: Chapter 64: That kid made a fool of himself; I hope the seniors can offer some corrections.

One middle-aged man, about fifty, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, rose first. A gentle smile spread across his face, as refreshing as a spring breeze, instantly making people feel at ease: "Master Li is here. This, I presume, must be Mr. Hu Tian?"

Li Hao hurried forward a few steps and introduced him respectfully: "Director Zhang, this is the Mr. Hu Tian I've mentioned to you many times. Brother Hu, this is Director Zhang Mingyuan of our Jinling City Cultural Relics Bureau."

Hu Tian took a step forward and extended his hand, neither humble nor arrogant. His movements were elegant and appropriate, showing the demeanor of a master: "Director Zhang, hello. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Zhang Mingyuan gripped Hu Tian's hand tightly. His gaze held both scrutiny and no lack of admiration, as if he could see through people's hearts: "Little Hu, to have such a discerning eye at such a young age is truly rare. I've heard Master Li talk about that 'Emperor Qianlong's Imperial Cloud and Dragon Motif Tripod Bronze Censer' from Wenchang Pavilion several times, calling it 'miraculous.' I specially invited you here today because I want to borrow your keen eyes to help us appraise the true nature of this batch of items."

Having said that, he turned to introduce three elderly men: "Come, let me introduce you. These three are giants in their fields, invited specifically from the Capital Institute of Cultural Relics."

Of the three elders, the one on the left wore a gray Zhongshan suit. Though his hair was silver, he was energetic, and his eyes flashed with sharp light as they opened and closed.

Zhang Mingyuan introduced: "This is Professor Jiang Peiyuan from the Capital Academy of Archaeology. He is seventy-two this year and is a domestic authority on song dynasty ceramics. Professor Jiang studied under Mr. Geng Baochang of the Palace Museum and has been immersed in the field of ceramic appraisal for over fifty years. He has appraised no fewer than ten thousand pieces of porcelain and is a specially appointed first-class appraisal expert of the National Cultural Heritage Administration. He has 'fiery eyes'—no 'demons or monsters' can escape his sight."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Peiyuan slowly set down a blue and white porcelain bowl in his hand. His movements were gentle, as if afraid of disturbing a 'sleeping beauty.' He nodded slightly to Hu Tian, his gaze calm and deep, as if saying: 'Young man, let me see what you're made of.'

Zhang Mingyuan continued to introduce the one in the middle: "This is Professor Su Huairen from the Capital Academy of Archaeology, specializing in the appraisal of Ming and Qing calligraphy and painting. Professor Su studied under the appraisal master Mr. Xu Bangda in his early years. He has profound achievements in the calligraphy and painting schools, brush and ink characteristics, and seal marks of the Ming and Qing dynasties. He is a true 'living fossil.' He also served as a consultant for the Ancient Calligraphy and Painting Department of the National Museum and participated in the compilation of the Illustrated Catalogue of Ancient Chinese Calligraphy and Painting. He is the recognized 'living dictionary' in the circle; any 'fake Li Kui' will be exposed before him."

Su Huairen pushed up his old-fashioned black-rimmed glasses, looking as refined as an 'old scholar.' He was slowly unrolling a yellowed scroll. Hearing the introduction, he gave Hu Tian a warm smile, his eyes filled with a bit of inquiry and evaluation, as if saying: 'The younger generation is to be feared, but you still need practice.'

The elder on the far right was burly. Despite his age, his back was straight as a pine tree. One could tell at a glance that he exercised year-round; his physique was even hardier than a 'young lad.'

Zhang Mingyuan introduced: "This is Professor Fang Jiye from the Capital Academy of Archaeology, specializing in bronzeware and ancient metal crafts. Professor Fang once presided over the excavation of the bronze hoard in Baoji, Shaanxi. He has unique insights into the casting techniques and shape evolution of Shang and Zhou bronzes. He has authored several academic monographs, such as Research on Chinese Bronze Patterns, and is the 'stabilizing force' in the field of bronze research."

Fang Jiye set down an ancient-looking bronze tripod. His movements were as steady as 'Mount Tai pressing down.' He sized Hu Tian up with eyes like torches, his voice as thick as a bell: "Young man, you have good spirit. Since Director Zhang specifically invited you, you must have some real skill."

At this point, his tone shifted, becoming more serious: "I heard from Director Zhang that you personally cleaned that 'Emperor Qianlong's Imperial Bronze Censer'? I've looked at that 'Emperor Qianlong's Imperial Cloud and Dragon Motif Tripod Bronze Censer.' Your cleaning technique is quite sophisticated, truly 'supernatural.' Especially your treatment of the bronze rust layer; it preserved the aged patina while perfectly restoring every tiny detail of the engraved patterns. That craftsmanship is more delicate than an 'embroidery girl.' The dragon motif on that censer was made using the 'double-hook engraving' technique; if the blade work is even slightly off, it ruins the fluid aura of the patterns."

He paused, a flash of hard-to-detect admiration in his eyes: "Common antique dealers cleaning bronze mostly just use acid washing, which often destroys the precious patina—a 'waste of God's gifts.' Some professional restorers are too conservative, afraid to act—'stopping eating for fear of choking.' That you can precisely grasp that subtle 'degree' shows you have a very deep understanding of bronze casting techniques and oxidation principles. You're simply a genius. I've studied bronzes my whole life, and what pains me most is seeing good things ruined by those who don't know the trade—'burning a zither to cook a crane.' A young person like you, with both vision and skill, is as rare as a phoenix feather or unicorn horn nowadays."

Hearing this, the smile on Zhang Mingyuan's face grew even brighter, more radiant than 'sunlight.' "Professor Fang has always had strict standards. To receive such praise from him is truly rare. Little Hu, you've gained the recognition of an expert."

Hu Tian smiled modestly, neither humble nor arrogant: "Professor Fang overpraises me. With that censer, I was also walking on thin ice, terrified of making a mistake—truly 'trembling with fear.' You are a giant in this field; I hope for your guidance in the future."

Fang Jiye waved his hand heartily, his movements elegant and bold: "No need to be polite. I've always been one to call it like it is. Today, there happen to be several bronzes that need a consultation. We can have a good exchange later."

Zhang Mingyuan then pointed to the two young men behind the three old professors: "These two are graduate students who came with their teachers to learn. This is Sun Qiming, Professor Jiang's prized pupil, pursuing a doctorate in ceramics at the Capital Academy of Archaeology. This is Qian Siyuan, Professor Su's student, specializing in the restoration and appraisal of ancient calligraphy and painting. They've come along this time to gain more practical experience."

Sun Qiming wore silver-rimmed glasses and had a clean-cut face. Hearing this, he politely nodded to Hu Tian.

Qian Siyuan appeared more scholarly, his notebook already filled with dense notes.

After the introductions, Director Zhang patted Hu Tian on the shoulder, as affectionately as an 'elder brother.' His expression turned solemn: "Mr. Little Hu, the items in this collection are indeed quite tricky. The three professors have looked at them all morning, but there are still over a dozen pieces they disagree on, making it hard to reach a conclusion—it's a case of 'everyone having their own opinion.' Come help us take a look. An extra pair of eyes means more certainty."

Hu Tian said politely: "This youngster will show his lack of skill, and hopes for guidance from his seniors."

He then followed the three old professors to one side of the long table.

There, over a dozen items were placed separately. It was clear these items were the 'hot potatoes' that the three professors were debating.

At the same time, Section Chief Li Huaqiang walked quickly to Zhang Mingyuan. His movements were as urgent as a 'messenger soldier,' and he whispered something in a voice as low as the 'humming of a mosquito.'

Although the two were some distance away, Hu Tian had excellent hearing, sharper than 'clairaudience.' He vaguely heard the name "Boss Zhao," and his heart couldn't help but stir.

After hearing Li Huaqiang's report, Zhang Mingyuan frowned slightly, his face darkening. He glanced toward Hu Tian, his eyes seemingly searching for something.

Just then, a crisp notification sound suddenly rang in Hu Tian's mind.

[Ding! Congratulations to the host for completing the mission: Perfectly resolve the potential threat from Zhao Shanhe]

[Mission Evaluation: Excellent. The host successfully neutralized the potential crisis from Zhao Shanhe through legal channels and by leveraging official power, avoiding a series of possible subsequent troubles]

[Mission Reward: Firearms Master Skill]

[Skill Description: The host will gain world-class firearms handling capabilities, including but not limited to precision shooting techniques for all types of firearms such as pistols, rifles, sniper rifles, and shotguns. Simultaneously unlocks a special skill—Gun Kata, allowing the perfect fusion of firearms and movement in close-quarters combat to form a unique fighting style. Whether it's static sniping or dynamic duels, the host will become a true Firearms Master]

Hu Tian's eyes narrowed slightly. A massive flow of information instantly flooded his mind, faster than 'fiber optics.'

The structural principles of various firearms, shooting essentials, ballistic calculations, rapid reloading techniques...

Countless pieces of knowledge poured into the depths of his consciousness like a flood.

At the same time, his muscle memory seemed to have undergone thousands of refinements. His hands trembled slightly unconsciously, as if adapting to this brand-new ability.

Those magnificent Gun Kata moves he had only seen in movies now became crystal clear in his mind—sideways spinning shots, mid-air rolling reloads, dual-wielding cross suppression...

The power generation technique for every movement, the shift in center of gravity, and the timing of each shot were all deeply etched into his physical instincts. It felt more natural than 'breathing.'

The entire process took only three or four seconds, but Hu Tian felt as if he had undergone years of professional training.

He took a deep breath, suppressing the surprise in his heart, his face remaining calm and composed.

Although this newly acquired ability was powerful, it was naturally inappropriate to show even a hint of it in this current appraisal setting.

However, Hu Tian knew in his heart that with this skill, if he truly encountered any dangerous situations while searching for treasures abroad in the future, he would have an extra 'protective talisman' to save his life.

After all, the treasure-hunting trade might seem glamorous, but the hidden dangers were beyond an outsider's imagination—it was 'licking blood from a blade.'

Professor Fang Jiye noticed Hu Tian's slightly hesitant steps and said warmly: "Little Hu, what's wrong?"

Hu Tian snapped out of it and shook his head with a smile: "Oh, it's nothing, Professor Fang. Let's head over."

The three old professors came to a halt before the long table.

The table was covered with thick velvet, and the dozen or so collectibles were laid out in order. Beside each one was a label and preliminary appraisal records; the setup was more formal than an 'exhibition.'

Jiang Peiyuan pointed to a blue and white porcelain vase on the far left and spoke first: "This blue and white interlocking lotus pattern vase, judging by the clay quality, the color of the cobalt, and the layout of the motifs, should belong to the ming dynasty's Yongle period. But Professor Su believes the proportions are slightly slender, closer to the xuande style. We've argued about this for a long time and still haven't reached a conclusion."

A poem says:

In a room scented with sandalwood, heroes gather, Ancient treasures and rarities are displayed on the tables.

Only a keen eye can distinguish the true from the false, As they discuss the world through antiquity and the present.