Chapter 1361: The Legend of the Phoenix
This time, Jill headed to China with sincerity and confidence. Hence, he had never expected that Wen Xinya would turn down his request to showcase the jewelry set in the French Vogue Museum. After all, it was immeasurable for one’s designs to be showcased and curated by the French Vogue International Jewelry a.s.sociation.
Jill’s face stiffened and he kept his blue eyes fixed onto Wen Xinya. “Wen, I can’t deny that you’re a very outstanding negotiator and your words have also greatly motivated me. I’m almost convinced by you.”
However, he hoped that he could finish the mission successfully.
Wen Xinya rubbed her tender fingers against the gold teapot. “Teacher Jill, as my mother’s daughter, I believe she wouldn’t want her designs to be confined to an enclosed s.p.a.ce forever. Life, love, bliss and hope are blessings that have to be pa.s.sed on from one generation to another, so as to prove its significance.”
“However, if you accept our request, you’ll be able to let your mother’s legacy live on. Your mother is a pa.s.sionate jewelry designer and it’s the holy grail and dream of all jewelry designers to have their works showcased at the French Vogue Museum. As her daughter, you have the right to fulfill that dream of hers. In fact, you’re obliged to do so.”
Having lived in China for a few years before, Jill naturally knew that the Chinese valued the significance of pa.s.sing on to the next generation, so as to preserve their culture. He respected China’s culture as well as the decision of his new friend, but her reasons were not enough to convince him.
After all, the mindsets and cultures of Westerners were very different.
Wen Xinya filled Jill’s cup with some tea that was bright and fresh. The aroma of the tea was tranquil and it wafted up to his nose. “Teacher Jill, China is a nation that values inheritance, life and the continuation of a bloodline. This is the significance of an endless life. Have you heard of the legend of the phoenix?”
Momentarily stunned, Jill said, “I know that phoenixes are known as the immortal birds to the Chinese. They’re beautiful and opulent mythical creatures.”
Wen Xinya grabbed the teacup and sipped on it slowly before saying leisurely, “Legend has it that phoenixes are the amba.s.sadors of happiness in the mortal world. Every 500 years, they would have to shoulder the burden of taking all the negativity and misery of humans. They would end up being lit afire and their pain would be used to exchange for world peace and harmony. After going through unbearable pain, they would get to live a better life.”
Suddenly astonished, Jill said, “So that’s the spirit and myth that you Chinese believe in. After a rebirth from agony, one would be able to live a new life and spread happiness around.”
He understood the reason for Mo Yunyao’s designs, as well as the love she had for Wen Xinya. She had exchanged her life and happy ending for the birth of her daughter whom she would pa.s.s bliss on to. That was the continuation of life and a bloodline.
That was the significance of a rebirth.
He suddenly felt rather astonished. It was just a set of cold, hard jewelry. Yet, Mo Yunyao had managed to give it so much beauty and soul. Mo Yunyao’s standards of jewelry design had probably already set the bar at the highest for the rest of the world!
However, most humans deciphered her designs using their superficial knowledge. Hence, they did not truly understand the significance of her designs as well as their souls.
Those humans included the prestigious and esteemed Vogue International Jewelry a.s.sociation.
That was probably the reason for Wen Xinya’s refusal to concede to their request.
Since they couldn’t even understand the significance and the soul behind the jewelry, what rights did they have to appreciate it?
It would only end up as a cold and lifeless piece of jewelry in the museum.
Mo Yunyao did not need superficial glory or honorary terms, just like how she voluntarily gave up the chance to be champion back then. She stood firm to her values and her pride and showcased her soul to the world.
Jill experienced failure for the first time in his life. He felt that Wen Xinya’s words had given him a new insight into jewelry.
Wen Xinya knew that she had already managed to convince Jill by telling him her heartfelt thoughts, though they were still not enough. “Teacher Jill, you must be well aware that I said this to all of the guests at the Wen Corporation’s jewelry exhibition back then.”
She paused and continued solemnly, “My mother, Madam Mo Yunyao’s designs will be sold as an heirloom to our exclusive list of guests. They will land in the hands of owners who truly cherish and love them. I’m the heiress of the Wen Family and the future successor. We’re just merchants, we can’t go back on our word.”
Wen Xinya knew better than anyone else that excessive reputation was not a good thing for the Wen Corporation. Unless they were on par with a top brand like Patek Phillipe. Otherwise, they would face other troubles caused by the clout.
The more responsibilities they take on, the more trouble there would potentially be.
Only the good jewelry designs deserved to be pa.s.sed onto the next generation. Using external factors to reap more profits was just unethical.
Jill was completely convinced by Wen Xinya’s definition of the continuation of life. “Wen, you’ve managed to convince me with a beautiful explanation. Although I can’t understand it well, I choose to respect it.”
He had no choice but to admit that Wen Xinya was indeed a very charming girl who was full of mystery and vibrancy like phoenixes.
As happy as a lark, Wen Xinya said, “Teacher Jill, I’m really glad that you can understand my difficulties. I heard that Vogue International Jewelry a.s.sociation will be holding a jewelry exhibition on New Year’s day and I’ll be taking Puerile Phoenix with me to Paris. I’ll be showcasing it during the jewelry exhibition held by the Vogue International Jewelry a.s.sociation.”
Although she had managed to convince Jill, she could not bear to let him leave empty-handed. Hence, she was willing to befriend him. After all, he was a nice man.
As happy as a lark, Jill hugged Wen Xinya agitatedly. “Wen, you’re the most kindhearted, intelligent and wise girl I’ve ever met. I’m really proud to have a friend like you.”
Although he could not acquire the rights to display and curate Puerile Phoenix, he was contented with her offer.
Wen Xinya could sense that Jill was genuinely excited. “Teacher Jill, are you free tomorrow? I’d like to invite you to the Wen Corporation for a viewing of Puerile Phoenix.”
Jill answered happily, “Yes, of course. I’m looking forward to it!”