Richest Man: Divine-Grade Reconstruct System Chapter 956 916: The Perfect Portrait

For a moment, all the painters knitted their brows in unison as they scrutinized the paper.

Within their minds, the verdict was already sealed with a definitive "X."

In their estimation, this material held no value.

Indeed, while it presented a flawless and pristine surface that promised an improved painting effect, its critical failing was its profound lack of durability.

Consequently, if one were to commit to painting upon it, the work risked being irrevocably damaged immediately after completion.

Wouldn’t this render all their painstaking efforts utterly wasted?

Could it not be that despite their most dedicated attempts, the masterpiece would vanish in the very next moment?

This was an outcome no painter would ever willingly accept.

After all, each artwork they produced was the culmination of their dedication, and for them, painting was not merely a profession but the very bedrock of their spirit.

However, at this precise juncture, Lin Yi’s voice resonated once more:

"Naturally, while this material possesses its weaknesses and is quite delicate, its advantages are undeniable. When utilized for painting, it offers greater convenience for drawing and simplified storage.

When juxtaposed with those costly silk scrolls, its production cost is considerably lower. And in comparison to the unwieldy bamboo slips, its weight is substantially less. Furthermore, the lines rendered upon this paper possess a remarkable beauty, a quality that neither cloth rolls nor bamboo slips can replicate."

"I encourage everyone to test it firsthand to experience its performance.

As for its long-term preservation or its susceptibility to tearing, these are not concerns you need to dwell on, for with careful handling, it will not succumb to damage.

Moreover, if a finished portrait is displayed on a wall and left undisturbed, why would it ever be ruined?"

With these words delivered, a new wave of contemplation swept through the assembly.

They found his arguments logical; after all, in the context of art, who would arbitrarily tear up a painting?

Or who would deliberately puncture it without cause?

Most significantly, Lin Yi’s revelation about the material’s affordability compared to silk scrolls began to pique their interest.

Considering the sheer volume of paintings they were expected to produce daily, and the fact that their practice wasn’t limited to commissioned portraits—they consistently needed to hone their skills on various media—this was a crucial point.

The expense of materials like bamboo slips made them difficult to procure in sufficient quantities, especially since the Royal Court’s provision of such resources was not limitless.

Now, gazing at the paper in their hands, a palpable intrigue began to surface amongst them.

Some exhibited an immediate eagerness to experiment, envisioning that if this material performed as described, it would be an invaluable addition to their craft. Consequently, one individual stepped forward and voiced his willingness:

"Your Majesty, I am prepared to be the first to attempt it."

With one person taking the initiative, all gazes shifted towards him, and then, inevitably, towards Lin Yi.

Observing this, Lin Yi offered a nod of approval and, with a sweep of his hand, instructed:

"Proceed with your trial. Procure a wooden board as a base as well; this will further enhance the painting effect."

Before long, a specialized wooden board, typically employed by painters to stabilize silk or fur during their work, was presented.

Now, with the sheet of white paper placed atop it, the sensation was distinctly different.

The eyes of all present brightened, visualizing the exceptional results that painting on such pristine paper would yield.

Indeed, as the painter guided his brush for the inaugural stroke, depicting a minister, the effect was immediate and striking.

The black ink rendered with perfect clarity upon the surface, and the stark contrast between black and white made the ink’s hue appear even more vibrant.

This initial display captivated every painter, and a collective yearning to begin their own work surged within them.

Particularly after witnessing these opening lines, the entire group could no longer restrain their impatience and implored Lin Yi for permission to commence painting immediately.

Lin Yi, naturally, granted their request with unreserved enthusiasm.

Thus, a short while later, a remarkably unique scene unfolded within the hallowed halls of the Imperial Council.

Over a dozen artists were engrossed in creating portraits of the eight prominent officials. In the meantime, the others observed with palpable envy.

Casting their eyes upon the eight individuals positioned centrally, the onlookers couldn’t help but ponder why they weren’t the ones seated there, noting the smug satisfaction already evident on the faces of those selected.

In the minds of these elder statesmen, this was clearly the new sovereign’s calculated gesture of appeasement.

It was a masterful strategy, employing both sternness and favor—a perfectly executed blend of the stick and the sweet carrot.

To their surprise, this new ruler demonstrated a profound understanding of governance, wielding such intricate stratagems that not only pleased the elders but also left them with a sense of unease regarding his capabilities, as it was evident he was no simple figure.

Yet, irrespective of his complexity, the fact that he had extended such a favorable offer implied his intention to rely upon them.

And that, for them, was sufficient.

At the very least, their established authority would remain undiminished.

Therefore, through continued dedication, wouldn't their power and influence only grow stronger with the passage of time?