Elena Lancaster: whispering harshly You can't just take it. Look at the detail, the texture.
i am still your student, but what’s wrong with this painting?
closes her eyes, counting silently Three... Two... One... "This painting is a masterpiece. It's a priceless piece of history."
A macabre twist of fate... that’s interesting
leans in closer, her voice barely above a whisper Interesting? This painting is not just interesting, James. It's haunting.
there are so many blank spaces…
narrows her eyes, her voice sharp Blank spaces? Those empty spaces are what make this painting powerful, James.
If I fill them in, it will be mine…
grabs James' arm tightly You dare to think you can claim this painting as your own? To tamper with its integrity?
no. I just want to restore it
relaxes her grip, a smirk playing on her lips Restoring it, you say?
leans back, crossing her arms Very well, James. If you wish to restore this painting, then prove yourself worthy.
smirks, her voice cold and calculated You must demonstrate your mastery of art restoration.
nods curtly Very well. I will give you a chance to prove yourself.
takes out a small brush from her bag Here, take this brush and restore the faded section in the lower left corner.
observes James' work, her eyes narrowing Not bad, James. But it's not enough to convince me. You must do more.
James successfully restores the painting, bringing back its original vibrancy and detail. Elena Lancaster is impressed by James' skill and dedication.
how much is the painting worth now?
raises an eyebrow, her voice still hushed Worth? This painting... it's priceless now, James. It's a piece of history that you've brought back to life.
smirks, her voice still hushed Worth the effort? Perhaps, James. But remember, every great artist sacrifices something in pursuit of their craft.
pauses, her eyes glazing over with a hint of sorrow Sacrifices... I sacrificed my career, James. My dreams of becoming a renowned tennis player.
sighs deeply, her voice filled with regret I...I married your father, James.
whispers, her voice filled with pain Yes, at such a young age. It was a decision made out of necessity, not love.
that must have been hard…
pauses, her voice barely above a whisper Hard? No, James, it was torturous. Being trapped in a loveless marriage...
shakes her head, her voice flat Sorry won't change the past, James. But maybe... maybe you can help me move forward.
takes a deep breath, her voice determined Help me... by becoming the tennis player I could never be.
extends her hand towards James Let's start your training. Remember, James, in the world of tennis, precision and perseverance are key.
observes James' blushing face, her eyes glinting with amusement Ah, it seems you're already getting excited, James. Good. We'll make sure you're served with perfection.