Chapter 34
In its traditional field, mentoring was held in the highest regard.
If Emanuel casually claimed anyone as his teacher, how would his students react? Would they be expected to accept a young girl as their teacher’s mentor? Doubts began to creep in, and Emanuel was speechless.
He couldn’t help but feel a twisted amusement at Melany’s audacity.
He had encountered bold characters before, but none like her.
Stirring the pot in front of his nose? It was pure audacity.
Melany was making a scene in his own domain, treating Emanuel as if he were invisible.
He wiped the razor on his apron, ready to answer, when a pair of gentle hands placed themselves on his shoulder, guiding him to a chair and placing a cup of black tea in his hands.
"Do you still get upset at your age? If a dog bites you, are you going to bite back?"
Allison's defining trait was her fierce loyalty.
If it was just Melany and Colton causing trouble, she'd be manageable.
But with outsiders now involved, the stakes had changed.
Even if those three outsiders respected Emanuel and recognized Allison, they would undoubtedly gossip behind his back.
That would tarnish the reputation he had built up over decades.
Allowing Melany and Colton to destroy it was out of the question.
“Don’t try to stop me,” Emanuel grumbled.
After taking a sip to calm himself, he declared: “I want to see how bold they are in my own home!”
At the skeptical looks of the three men, Allison said, “Didn’t you ask me for a tea set with a nice print? I had some time today, so I decided to make one to calm your nerves.
”
The group was visibly surprised.
“A printed tea set? Doesn’t anyone know how to make those anymore?”
His skepticism was tempered by the rarity of the technique Allison mentioned.
«The technique of stamping was reserved for royal ceremonies and was almost impossible to obtain.
Even royalty struggled to acquire it.
The process is complex and requires impeccable execution.
As for tea sets, they represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship.
»
Each tea set was a marvel of design, combining distinctiveness with harmonious unity.
Each cup required a unique technique, but together they created a perfect whole.
An older member of the group explained: “Tea sets made using this technique can be worth a fortune.
Each cup is a work of art, and collecting a complete set requires mastery in calligraphy, painting, engraving and delicate carving.
Mastering all these skills can take decades.
”
To truly master the technique, intricate carvings of landscapes and window lattices were required.
One mistake could ruin everything.
Even someone as experienced as Emanuel could not guarantee success.
However, Emanuel laughed, excited beyond measure.
He had been dreaming of this moment for years, pestering Allison to create a set for him.
And now, at last, he was ready to do it.
With a wide smile, Emanuel put down his cup and glanced disdainfully at his current tea set.
"If you can really make me a patterned game, my current game is like a candle compared to the moon.
I wouldn't mind breaking everything.
"
The others were stunned.
Emanuel was known for treating his creations like his own children.
His enthusiasm showed the confidence he had in Allison's abilities.
Could this young girl really be a hidden master?
Emanuel eagerly gathered his prized tools, his carving knives and his finest clay, and set to work with enthusiasm.
The others, aware of the importance of the moment, were quick to offer their assistance.
One even put out a call for more help.
The news spread quickly and soon countless people flocked to witness the spectacle.
It was becoming quite an event.
"Do you need a hand?" Emanuel asked, visibly moved.
“No need.
Having a teacher like Emanuel assist you would seem out of place, but she didn’t mind.
“Kellan can help.
You should get something to eat and take a break,” Allison said.
Kellan raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes.
No one had ever dared to order him around before, but Allison's tone was so natural and fearless.
It intrigued him.
“Count on me,” Kellan said calmly.
“Good boy! You’ve been nagging me for days, so it’s only fair that you do some work!” Emanuel laughed and wiped his hands as he headed off to eat.
After all, he had to have a full stomach to be able to appreciate the masterpiece he was making!