Chapter 93: Quick Taobao
In the capital, two places are always bustling with crowds: one is Tiananmen Square where everyone looks up to watch the flag-raising ceremony, and the other is the Ruiz Family Market where everyone is head down in search of national treasures.
That’s what people say humorously. Regardless of how many genuine collectors actually enter the Ruiz Family Market, just watching the throngs of people rubbing shoulders and the lively trading scene, you’ll discover that at the same location and at different times, many visitors are unfolding fascinating stories. Even if you don’t buy anything and merely watch, you’ll find it interesting. And besides, there are plenty of surprises waiting for us to discover!
At 8:30 a.m., Yusuf Zuck arrived on time at the Ruiz Family Market. Perhaps due to it being the weekend or morning, there were twice as many people as the previous afternoon, rubbing shoulders with real closeness.
When Yusuf Zuck arrived at the Ancient Jade Studio, Louise Garrett was already waiting outside. Today she was wearing a tracksuit, with a white cap, white sneakers, and a backpack, looking both fresh and full of vitality.
"It’s the weekend, so the stall area is particularly lively. The early market has just ended, and while there aren’t too many people around, how about we go for a stroll?" Louise Garrett took the initiative to clutch Yusuf Zuck’s arm and started walking while speaking.
"Early market? What is that?" Yusuf Zuck asked in confusion.
"It’s the trade in old items that happens in the morning," Louise Garrett explained. "The stall area opens at 4:30 a.m., and the main customers are antique dealers. They use flashlights to hunt for treasures to stock up. So if you really want to get into this business, you should get up early to find the good stuff. At this time, tourists begin flooding in, making it much harder to find any valuable treasures."
"I see!" Yusuf Zuck had an epiphany. The real antique business is carried out by those who come early to hunt for treasures, while tourists and some collectors wander in after daylight.
"You’ve got a lot to learn," Louise Garrett said with a smile.
"When’s your period over?" Yusuf Zuck suddenly asked in a low voice close to her ear.