Chapter 456 - 450_1
Lin Yue’s heart had already warmed a few degrees towards Zhang Qiusheng, but when Zhang Qiusheng placed the finished carving in front of her, she was still pleasantly surprised. This Zhang Qiusheng’s skill was simply too impressive, wasn’t it? The work he had carved not only met her specifications entirely, but was even a tad finer and more vibrant than her drawings, bringing an essence of life into the carving. Although Zhao Fuquan had greatly improved and could now replicate what she drew with seventy to eighty percent accuracy, no one else she knew could do any better. Using Zhao Fuquan as a comparison only served to highlight Zhang Qiusheng’s exceptional talent.
"Master Zhang truly has unparalleled craftsmanship. Your reputation as the best woodworker in Xin’an City is well-deserved and beyond dispute," Lin Yue said merrily as she looked at the carved work before her, and she was not stingy with her praise.
Zhang Qiusheng accepted Lin Yue’s praise without a hint of modesty. Since the time he was sensible, he had mixed with wood carving and craftsmanship, and while to others he was merely a carpenter, he regarded wood carving as the most sacred of tasks, continually honing his skill through practice and tries. Thus, he felt justified in accepting the compliment.
"Master Zhang, Brother Fuquan must have already told you the purpose of inviting you here. I have a batch of items that I would like you to carve. Since Master Zhang has come, I would guess you are willing. I am curious if you have any particular requirements regarding the work, and how you would like to settle the payment," Lin Yue broached the topic of their business.
"The payment should be the industry standard, no more and no less. Fuquan works in the same trade and should be aware. However..." Zhang Qiusheng, seeing that Lin Yue was satisfied with his work, did not take the opportunity to demand a higher fee. Yet he hesitated as he spoke, suggesting he had additional requests.
"What is it you would like to say, Master Zhang? You can mention any conditions, no matter what they are, and I’ll do my best to fulfill them if I can. As for the payment, I’ll abide by the standard industry rate, plus an extra twenty percent as long as you complete this batch to a good standard," Lin Yue offered generously.
"The mistress of the house is truly straightforward. I’ll just be direct, then. I hope you can arrange a place for me and my family to stay. I don’t ask for a higher salary—in fact, I’m willing to accept a lower rate. Could you perhaps employ me for a couple more years?" Zhang Qiusheng’s words carried a plea, suggesting he faced some difficulties, hence the request.