Jiang Cheng’s words made the accompanying factory director pause in thought, gaining some enlightenment.
He recalled something his late master used to say: All things are beautiful, it’s just the worldly perspective that shackles them.
"You’re right, no wonder my master always said I was just a little bit off."
The factory director felt deeply moved and nostalgic.
Jiang Cheng didn’t pursue further inquiry but asked, "Director, do you have a lot of these pieces?"
"Quite a few."
The director showed a bit of embarrassment and said, "This was a major mishap for our factory; a whole kiln got fired... and turned out like this."
Jiang Cheng nodded and continued, "Are they all as good quality as this?"
"Yes, they’re all top quality, just that the shapes differ a little from our original design."
Jiang Cheng understood and handed the pottery back to the director.
"Director, I’m not sure if there will be buyers for these, but if someone appreciates unique shapes, we can capitalize on that."
"So, find a master from the furniture carving factory to make a rustic box, put this inside, and then we leave it to luck."
The factory director agreed enthusiastically.
Jiang Cheng examined the other pieces, noting nothing particularly eye-catching.
She stood up, inviting a few factory directors to chat as they walked.
"Directors, have you heard about the transaction Sea City Ceramics Factory made involving a set of dinnerware?"
"Yes, we heard. They initially planned to come this time, but due to foreign exchange orders, they weren’t able to fulfill new ones, so they didn’t come."
Upon hearing this, Jiang Cheng’s hidden smugness resurfaced after days of restraint.
"I must apologize, but I happen to be the translator and part-time designer at Hai City Textile Factory."
The directors were surprised but found it reasonable.
Feeling it was reasonable, they became more enthusiastic towards Jiang Cheng.
After some accommodating conversation, Jiang Cheng added, "What I want to say is, our design approach needs a shift."
"While preserving the ancient Hua Xia style as our feature, we must also consider what foreign markets need."
"Currently, we’ve got communication with overseas, so let’s find some of their local magazines or newspapers for material, and draw design inspiration."
"After all, our products are sold to them."
Jiang Cheng’s words were taken to heart by the directors, who all promised to focus on researching design directions upon returning.
Jiang Cheng left it at that, and together with the directors, departed the trade fair building.
It was already 1 AM.
Director Mu, Director Leng, and Li Chunxiang had been waiting at the door for Jiang Cheng to come out.
The group said their goodbyes at the entrance, and Jiang Cheng got in the car to be driven back to the small courtyard.
Upon returning, she seized the opportunity to rest, tomorrow... well, it’s already today.
The battle resumes today!
After resting a few hours, Jiang Cheng got up, ate breakfast, and headed out.
Still the same four people, still the same bus.
Upon arrival, the three waited outside, and Jiang Cheng instructed, "If something comes up or you need to run errands, leave one person outside to wait for me."
"Also, if you’re tired, thirsty, or hungry, take care of it yourselves, don’t save money for me."
Li Chunxiang looked at the nagging Jiang Cheng, and smilingly nudged her, saying, "Don’t worry, we’re not going to save money for you; you go ahead."
"Alright, spend more!"
Jiang Cheng gave Li Chunxiang’s nose a gentle tap and left them with a view of her back as she went inside.
Today the trade fair atmosphere felt somewhat different.
How to explain it...


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