Chapter 640 - 633_1
Since the glassmaking had reached such a level, Lin Yue took out some of the designs and models for glass products that she had previously drawn and kept in the box. "Master Xue, these are some of the models and patterns I’ve drawn before. Try to produce them and, additionally, it would be best to incorporate some techniques of firing colored glaze into these few designs. Not only will they look exquisite and beautiful, but they will also possess a unique charm and mystery exclusive to our Great Zhou Dynasty, surpassing the glass made in the West in both quality and cultural depth."
Lin Yue spoke thus. While the Great Zhou Dynasty sought after the glass and mirrors from the West, the latter actually appreciated the colored glaze products from the Great Zhou Dynasty. Colored glaze was not only rare in terms of the materials used but also in its craftsmanship. Artisans who had experience in firing colored glaze could easily make glass as long as they had the formula. However, the reverse was difficult; even with a formula, it was not an easy feat for a glassmaker to produce colored glaze. The success rate was low, seven or eight out of ten attempts would fail, and the production cost of colored glaze was many times higher than that of glass.
The glassware that Lin Yue combined and fired, integrating the strengths and essence of both materials, was bound to develop even better over time.
Having handed over the drawings to Master Xue, Lin Yue also reminded him of some points to pay attention to. Originally, Master Xue should have taken his leave, and with his temperament, having received these delicate and beautiful drawings, he would surely have been eager to start figuring out how to produce them. Yet, he stood in front of Lin Yue, hesitating and not stepping back as if he had something more to say.
"Is there something else, Master Xue? If you have any difficulties, feel free to speak up, whether it’s about the workshop or personal life. As long as it’s within my power, I will do my best to help you out. Moreover, I have also promised you a condition, so whatever it is, just speak your mind, don’t feel troubled."
"Madam, I have made up my mind. Regarding the reward you mentioned last time, I still have family back in my hometown. I wish to bring them here so I can take care of them closely. I hope you can agree to this," Master Xue said.
If Master Xue had hesitated before, fearing that bringing his family over would mean there was no turning back, which is why he did not mention it earlier, then the time since had been enough for him to recognize Lin Yue’s character. Such a master was hard to find even in the entire Great Zhou Dynasty. Here, not only was the treatment good, but the master also did not regard him as a servant. After years of living on edge and scheming within the palace, he could finally lead a normal life. Master Xue just wanted to settle down and work loyally for Lin Yue from now on.
Lin Yue, pleased with the condition proposed by Master Xue, showed a sincere smile. "I thought it was something serious. It turns out Master Xue wants to bring his family over. This is natural. I had the same idea myself, but I didn’t know how you felt about it, so it wasn’t appropriate for me to bring it up. Now that you have mentioned it, let’s pick a date. I will arrange for a carriage and guards to accompany you back to your hometown to fetch your family. As for accommodation, I will allocate a vacant courtyard in our house. You can choose a satisfactory one once the drawings are sent over."
"Servant thanks the madam. I will serve you with all my heart and loyalty," Master Xue said, and he was about to kneel and kowtow to Lin Yue, but she personally helped him up.