The Charismatic Charlie Wade

As the Boeing 777 carrying the three elders soared over the vast ocean, in Aurous Hill, Jacob couldn’t contain his excitement. He tightly clutched the portrait given to him by Vivian and steered the magnificent Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a gift from Michaela. Determined and filled with confidence, he arrived at the grand entrance of the Painting and Calligraphy Association.

Jacob’s demeanor exuded an air of triumph, akin to a ragtag army celebrating a hard-fought victory before the disciplined forces. Inside the association, he had never been the most popular figure. Most of the attendees were literati and scholars, who, even if lacking in true talent and knowledge, possessed a deep understanding of artistic principles. They were well-versed in the art of “playing a subordinate role,” providing space for professionals to demonstrate their expertise while acting as a backdrop. It was a delicate dance, an intricate balance.

Yet, Jacob was the disruptive force challenging the established order—an old enemy redefining elegance. In truth, he knew very little about antique calligraphy and painting. Whenever he saw others engage in the art, he imitated them, albeit with shallow skills and a lack of true mastery.

Such a person was hardly qualified to serve as a foil in the Painting and Calligraphy Association. However, he had climbed the ranks step by step, eventually reaching the position of executive vice president. This achievement evoked envy and discontent among many, leaving a sour taste in their mouths.

Even Chairman Price acknowledged that Jacob was an amateur in the field. Yet, he dared not offend him, considering Jacob’s influential connections, particularly with Don Albert. To overcome the opposition, Chairman Price had to set aside his reservations and support Jacob’s rise to power.

However, not everyone shared Chairman Price’s ambitions or coveted Jacob’s connections. While Chairman Price could tolerate him, others couldn’t bear his presence.

When Jacob parked his car and approached the entrance of the Painting and Calligraphy Association, he overheard a conversation from within. Someone exclaimed, “Hey, has our executive Wilson managed to find any exhibit worthy of sale?” Another person sneered, “Him? He knows nothing about calligraphy and painting. Where would he find valuable pieces for the exhibition?”

“Exactly!” chimed in a voice. “What did the painter say to him? What did he say to me? He claimed this painting lacks the essence of a mountain and the authenticity of water. At first glance, it’s clear that this isn’t the work of a renowned artist. I don’t even want to waste my breath on him.”

The person before them chuckled, saying, “Our Vice President Wilson is just a typical waste of space. He’s always the jokester around here. I doubt he can go a single day without making a fool of himself. If Chairman Price wasn’t in his favor, I would have scolded him right to his face. If he fails to present something worthwhile at this exhibition, I will publicly call for his replacement!”

These individuals joined forces, putting pressure on Chairman Price to take action.

listened at the door. Angrily, he stormed in, clutching the painting tube, and scowled,

offering a sarcastic remark, “Oh, Vice President Wilson, our calligraphy and painting exhibition is about to begin, and here you are,

you should at least display one or two treasures

of people joined in, mocking Jacob without

can I not possess high-quality goods? It’s just that some of the paintings are too large to be brought here!” In that moment, Jacob transformed himself into

imposing display desk reserved for appraisals and exhibitions by the association. He declared, “Well, today I will give you a chance to witness a lost

the fragility of traditional Chinese painting materials compared to the durability of Western canvases. Most Tang Dynasty artworks had been passed down through countless generations, making it highly unlikely for

unfurled the scroll, piece by piece, the onlookers prepared to relish yet another of his jests. However, their eyes widened in astonishment as

one had expected the artwork to

Western sketches are adept at capturing such realistic elements,” one person questioned. “It doesn’t resemble the Tang Dynasty style of painting to me. Tang Dynasty

If there truly existed such an exceptional painter during the Tang Dynasty, they would have achieved widespread fame by

have never witnessed such artistry before. This painting transcends ordinary measures. Every brushstroke is perfect, the attention to detail is beyond belief.

replicate. The renowned Treadway family’s ancestor, who had lived to the extraordinary age of one hundred and

he flawlessly captured

evident. “This… this painting is undoubtedly a Tang Dynasty silk painting… The texture, the appearance—it bears the mark of age. It’s unquestionably authentic.

the association. Many had called for him to assume the role of executive vice president, making him Jacob’s greatest

initial skepticism gradually transformed into excitement. They gazed at the artwork, growing increasingly awestruck. In their eyes, the painting’s skill had surpassed all the great painters of the Tang Dynasty. Its artistic conception