0029: Done

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At this particular moment, Song Yu had already retrieved a timer, placing it precisely in the space between them.

Both Song Yu and Xue Yang had brandished their blades, but to maintain a harmonious atmosphere and avoid ruffling the feathers of the elderly gentleman, Xue Yang strategically interposed his own body, acting as a shield for the jade stone.

The venerable Luo Lao himself had proposed the intricate task of carving the Jade Buddha. His prior moniker, Jade Buddha Luo, bore testament to his profound mastery in the art of jade carving.

Despite Xue Yang's intense scrutiny, Luo Lao, working diligently on his fifth blade, exhibited signs of impatience. However, at this juncture, Xue Yang astounded the onlookers by unveiling a flawlessly sculpted Jade Buddha.

While not an opus magnum, the Jade Buddha manifested exquisite craftsmanship, both in aesthetic allure and functional utility. The residue of jade powder atop the sculpture hinted at its recent completion.

Clearly perturbed by Xue Yang's unwavering observation since the fifth blade, Luo Lao couldn't hide his astonishment. His eyes widened into a perfect "O," capable of accommodating an egg.

Upon the completion of the Maitreya Buddha, Xue Yang, donning a self-satisfied smile, declared, "I'm done indulging. Let's wrap things up."

Taking the jade from Luo Lao's hands for examination, Xue Yang discerned the old man's intent. Though the number of slashes was few, it was evident Luo Lao aspired to carve not an entire Buddha statue but solely the Buddha head.

The Buddha head, being the most challenging part of the sculpture, demanded capturing the very essence and charisma of the deity. Acknowledging Luo Lao's skill, Xue Yang proceeded to utilize the worn-out carving brush as a foundation, soon fashioning a flawlessly detailed Buddha head.

As Xue Yang chuckled at the state of the worn-out pen, Song Yu, sporting a puzzled expression, gestured in front of his eyes. "Xue Yang, are you under some form of enchantment?"

Unperturbed by Song Yu's inquiry, Xue Yang continued his gleeful laughter. Suddenly, he bestowed a swift kiss upon Song Yu's face before retreating into his room, ensuring the door was securely locked behind him.

Song Yu, still in a state of bewilderment, eventually roused herself and pursued Xue Yang, pounding on the door with unwavering determination. Despite the fervent knocking, her countenance bore a peculiar smile, as if she had just savored the sweetness of honey.

Upon emerging from his room the following morning, Xue Yang noted the absence of Song Yu trailing behind him. Over breakfast, Song Yu, expressing a sense of urgency, alluded to pending financial matters, leaving Xue Yang to wonder whether it was genuine busyness or a shy attempt to evade his company.

Unfazed, Xue Yang swaggered out, leaving Song Yu engrossed in her own thoughts.

Answering a call from Boss Bai, Xue Yang greeted the eager boss with a smile. Despite Boss Bai's hopeful proposition of returning to work, Xue Yang politely declined, opting instead to invite Boss Bai to the Jade Market for a discussion of matters requiring attention.

At the market's entrance, Boss Bai shared the company's ongoing struggles. Maintaining a reserved silence, Xue Yang led Boss Bai to a discreet corner.

Inside a timeworn materials shop, Xue Yang retrieved an ancient jade carving knife, guiding Boss Bai's gaze toward an elderly artisan meticulously shaping high-quality jade.

None other than Luo Lao, confirmed by the meticulous details etched on the blade. Meanwhile, Luo Lao's spouse, expressing discontent over his seemingly extravagant carving habits, filled the air with her grievances. As Xue Yang placed the carving knife back into Luo Lao's seasoned hands, Boss Bai, observing the scene, widened her eyes in disbelief.

Worth more than Xue Yang's own creation? Inconceivable! Luo Lao, still grappling with the reality of the situation, voiced his incredulity. Xue Yang, however, dispelled any doubts by producing a Buddha head from his pocket, aligning perfectly with Luo Lao's unspoken aspirations.

Witnessing the exact embodiment of his envisioned Buddha head left Luo Lao even more astounded.

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