C25 Everyone Was Shocked and Achieved Their Wish.

Upon witnessing this, Jiang Hao had no intention of retracting his gift. Besides, his offering was far more than a mere token to celebrate Soong Wan's birthday.

"Miss Wan'er, it would be unthinkable for me to reclaim a gift once given. This pendant is not solely to mark the occasion of your birthday. In fact, I am here on behalf of my mentor to propose a partnership with your Emerald Pavilion. We would like the Pavilion to become the exclusive seller of the treasures he carves in the future."

"I must admit, this pendant is a creation of my mentor. The gentleman here has quite the discerning eye; indeed, there is a counterpart to this pendant featuring a dragon, together forming the auspicious Dragon Phoenix motif," Jiang Hao said, addressing Third Master Soong with a tone that was respectful yet confident.

He then shifted his gaze to Soong Wanzhong, who stood nearby. Recognized as the Jade King, Soong Wanzhong immediately recognized the true value of the pendant—a genuine glass-type Emperor Green Jade, masterfully carved by a Grandmaster. The prospect of a collaboration with such a renowned artist brought a surge of excitement to his heart.

"Agreed. From now on, any treasure crafted by your master will be sold at the Emerald Pavilion, and we will only take a 10% commission," Soong Wanzhong declared. He was unsure of the Grandmaster's authenticity, but he knew that even a potential risk posed no threat to him.

His magnanimity was not common, and his willingness to concede such a significant share was not a decision taken lightly. Yet, Soong Wanzhong was no fool—if the Grandmaster was genuine, the small concession for his favor was a worthwhile exchange. The Grandmaster's reputation alone could bring substantial gains to the Emerald Pavilion.

Soong Wanzhong's swift decision left Jiang Hao momentarily taken aback, but he quickly grasped the significance.

"Very well, a 10% profit share it is. My mentor and I are deeply grateful," Jiang Hao said, bowing in appreciation.

Upon seeing this, Soong Wanzhong stepped forward to lift Jiang Hao to his feet.

"There's no need for such formality. Since you're a classmate of my Wan'er, please, just call me Uncle Soong."

Without missing a beat, Jiang Hao responded, "I'm truly thankful, Uncle Soong!"

In the blink of an eye, the two had struck a deal, leaving the onlookers astounded.

"The Jade King only takes a 10% cut? Truly worthy of his title!"

"Looks can be deceiving, indeed!"

"Who would have thought this pendant was the work of a Grandmaster!"

...

Just then, Third Master Soong caught the end of Jiang Hao's transaction with Soong Wanzhong and eagerly cut in.

"Young man, could you introduce me to your master? I'd like to pay my respects."

Jiang Hao, caught off guard, hesitated.

"My master is a bit of a nomad, always seeking me out, not the other way around. I'm afraid I can't help you meet him."

Of course, Jiang Hao's master was a figment of his imagination, a necessary ruse to account for the pendant's origins.

Third Master Soong's disappointment was palpable.

"Then, young friend, should your master create any new pieces, I would be honored to see them."

"That can be arranged," Jiang Hao readily agreed.

Suddenly, Jiang Hao was the life of the party, with everyone vying for his attention, while Qin Shou had been all but forgotten.

From a distance, Qin Shou watched Jiang Hao bask in the limelight, his face twisted with bitterness. Eventually, he and his followers slipped away unnoticed.

...

The birthday banquet's climax came when Jiang Hao presented three exquisite jade pieces, their appearances enhanced by the system.

A top-tier black jade thumb ring, a phoenix-shaped jade hairpin, and a lotus jade Buddha were swiftly snapped up by eager magnates for one, three, and five million respectively.

Jiang Hao found himself on the cusp of becoming an overnight millionaire!

With that, Jiang Hao had firmly caught the attention of high society.