Chapter 308 - Chapter 308: Chapter 316: United Intentions (1/2)
Chapter 308: Chapter 316: United Intentions
“This jewelry was designed by the Madam?” Master Cao was genuinely surprised. After all, the Mistress appeared very young, and to someone as experienced as him, she seemed rather youthful. Designing such jewelry required not just ingenious ideas and novelty but also experience and vision. It wasn’t just one or two pieces, but several sets—this couldn’t simply be attributed to a moment of inspiration.
“Yes, indeed. After all, these are items to be worn by young ladies. I had a moment of inspiration and designed a few sets, exposing my skills to Master Cao’s amusement.” Su Wenyue modestly responded.
“Madam is truly a gifted prodigy, the likes of which I admire greatly. If it’s not too much to ask and if Madam has the time, I hope she would not begrudge imparting some of her knowledge to guide this old man. While I may indeed be skilled in my craft, I admittedly lack in the area of design.” Master Cao spoke with genuine admiration. To him, the pursuit of finer craftsmanship, not the superficial trappings of fame and fortune, was more important at his level of mastery. This willingness to learn from others and his humility were characteristic of someone with Master Cao’s temperament.
“Master Cao, there’s no need for such modesty. However, I can certainly design some patterns; after all, I do enjoy these things, which is why I had my Husband invite Master Cao. From now on, we will rely heavily on your craftsmanship,” said Su Wenyue with a smile, pleased to have shared enjoyable company with Master Cao.
“Madam is too kind. Since I have willingly come to serve the Han Family, I will naturally fulfill my duties.”
“That’s good to hear. I am quite forthright by nature, not one for beating around the bush. Master Cao, if you have any requests, please state them directly. As long as they are within my capacity, I will do my utmost to satisfy your needs.” Su Wenyue intended to say a few good words to win over Master Cao. However, considering his character, she knew he wouldn’t appreciate cunning ploys, so sincere and straightforward interaction seemed the better approach for mutual comfort.
As expected, Master Cao appreciated Su Wenyue’s frankness. As a craftsman with great skill, he had not lacked suitors vying for his service, some even offering lavish perks to win his favor. Yet, he disliked such tactics. To him, they were merely after their own interests. At his age, there wasn’t much he couldn’t see through. He noticed that this new Mistress was a good-natured and decent person. Moreover, she could design such excellent patterns, which aligned with his own desires.
“Madam, rest assured, I too am a straightforward person and will communicate my needs to you,” he said.
Looking again at the jewelry, Master Cao hesitated no longer about voicing his concerns.
“If Madam doesn’t mind, I would like to take charge of these jewelry pieces. Such exquisite designs would be a shame not to fully realize their charm. However, much work from the craftsmen has already gone into them. I need not melt them down to start anew; instead, I can refine certain details so that, even if they don’t equal what I could have made, they will at least possess a bit more spirit to not let down the effort that Madam has put into the designs.”
Master Cao was the type of person who always yearned to create when he saw excellent patterns. He couldn’t stand to see good materials wasted. When craftsmen failed to bring to life the beauty of the designs, it felt like an affront to him. Nonetheless, his lack of insistence on starting from scratch and choosing to make improvements showed respect for the original craftsmen.