Summary
Highlights
Huang Huo discovers a magical calligraphy copybook on an antique street. Copying it enhances his physical abilities and grants him 'spiritual essence' vision, allowing him to discern genuine antiques by their glowing aura.
Huang Huo uses his newfound ability to identify a genuine Zhang Daqian painting, buying it for 1200 yuan and selling it for 800,000 yuan. He decides to pursue a career in antiques, driven by his ability to see the 'essence' of items.
He identifies a rare Great Dragon stamp and a complete set of Daquan Five Thousand coins. He befriends Boss Murong and Brother Tan, a fellow antique enthusiast, and they begin to 'treasure hunt' together.
Huang Huo and Murong Qingxi appraise Qianlong Flower Goddess Cups, realizing their true value. Elder Shen, an antique expert, confirms their authenticity, elevating Huang Huo's status in the antique world.
At Yin Yanqing's auction, Huang Huo identifies a cloisonné incense burner hiding a valuable Tibetan Tantric Lama relic, selling it for five million. He also realizes his calligraphy practice enhances his internal energy and spiritual vision.
Huang Huo navigates the Ghost Market, acquiring bronze wine vessels from the Shang and Zhou dynasties and a Mao porcelain bowl, demonstrating his keen eye and negotiation skills. He also encounters a Japanese woman, Hojo Himeko, who tries to exploit his finds.
Huang Huo, Qingxi, and Tan Yuan discover a hidden painting by Edgar Degas worth tens of millions. Their search for the remaining Flower Goddess Cups leads them to a prince's collection. Huang Huo and Qingxi's relationship deepens, leading to discussions about marriage amidst family expectations.
Huang Huo and Qingxi decide to get married. Qingxi's family initially disapproves but is swayed by her decision and Huang Huo's financial success from his antique dealings. They buy a new house, solidifying their commitment.
Huang Huo discovers a rare Tianhuang stone within a wood carving in his new house. Later, trouble arises at Jubao Pavilion with a mysterious blue-glazed jar, which Huang Huo and Qingxi expertly identify as a high-quality imitation with historical significance.
Huang Huo encounters Hojo Himeko again and outwits her attempts to manipulate him for ancient coins. He continues to find valuable antiques, including a Wen Zhengming calligraphy, further solidifying his reputation in the antique world.
At an antique fair, Huang Huo acquires a Song Dynasty Ru ware Yuhuchun vase, a highly realistic fake that turns out to be genuine, perplexing even experts. The fair culminates in an auction of a legendary sword, showcasing the intense competition and high stakes of the antique world. Huang Huo secures a luminous pearl from his earlier purchase.
Elder Shen takes Huang Huo under his wing, offering to teach him the intricacies of antique appraisal. This mentorship aims to lessen Huang Huo's dependence on his 'spiritual eye' and establish him as a true expert in the field, while also supporting Qingxi's public role in the antique world.