Ch. 476..480: The Princess of Northern Land Chapter 476-480
Chapter 476: Chapter 476 Development of Private Schools (4)_1
"It seems that Miss Lin’s private school places a particular emphasis on both cultural and martial prowess?" Mei Hanqing asked, his eyes eagerly settling on Lin Ziyin.
"I value the cultivation of morality more." Lin Ziyin replied, "In the academy, we encourage every student to strive for holistic development in morality, intelligence, physical fitness, aesthetics, and labor. Also, we allow students to capitalize on their strengths according to their personal traits, and encourage them to engage in social practice outside school during holiday and spare time."
"What is social practice?" Mei Hanqing asked, puzzled. He had heard the term for the first time, and expected Lin Ziyin to clarify it for him.
"Reading thousands of books is not as useful as traveling thousands of miles. Practical application of knowledge is another teaching philosophy we advocate in our school." Lin Ziyin responded, then gave a brief introduction of the subjects taught in the academy, as well as their usual teaching methods.
Mei Hanqing became increasingly excited as he listened. He was not obstinate nor did he subscribe to the outdated ideologies of the old scholars from Daqin. The approach to education presented by Lin Ziyin was more appropriate for the Northern Land.
"I brought you here so you could study at the academy," said Chu Suifeng. "In the future, the academy in Shili Village will develop further. Many of my subordinates’ children have already been enrolled."
"Yes, my Prince." Mei Hanqing replied respectfully. Even without the Prince’s command, he would have endeavored to learn. After all, his most pressing concern was to cultivate capable and practical talents for the Prince.
The Northern Land near Border City was in a precarious position, with the ruthless Tatars to the north and the predatory Imperial Court to the south. The Prince’s plans were bound to cause unrest. If every student nurtured by the academies in the Northern Land could be both scholarly and martial, it would undoubtedly be the best return to the Prince.
"Dong, dong, dong." A deep bell toll echoed, and soon, a crowd of children ran out from the courtyards. They were boys and girls, each with a face brimming with joy and confidence.
"Does your school admit girls too?" Mei Hanqing puzzledly asked.
"In my view, boys and girls are equal." Lin Ziyin replied, unwilling to delve into gender equality with someone from a different era, "In fact, I believe that girls might be even more resilient than boys."
Mei Hanqing looked at her in surprise.
This was the first time he had heard someone suggest that women were stronger than men.
Chu Suifeng and Situ Gong looked at her with a light smile but didn’t object or show displeasure.
"Greetings, Prince and Miss Lin." The children greeted her with a smile when they saw her.
"This humble one greets the Prince and Miss Lin." Dressed in a white robe, with ink black hair fastened by a white jade hairpin, Qian Xuan exuded an elegant and gentle demeanor. Beside him stood the white-haired Doctor Xu. They had come over specifically to greet Lin Ziyin and Chu Suifeng.
"No formalities needed." Chu Suifeng casually responded.
Qian Xuan and Doctor Xu expressed their thanks, then stood unassumingly to one side.
A face with characters tattooed, signifying a slave status, Mei Hanqing was startled again.
The shock that the academy brought him today was unprecedented. He was usually a calm and steady scholar and had never felt as excited and bewildered as he did today.
"In the academy, the teachers hold the most respect." Lin Ziyin respectfully bowed to them.
Qian Xuan and Doctor Xu returned the courtesy. The natural manner of both sides indicated that Lin Ziyin was not simply putting on a show.
Mei Hanqing sighed inwardly, giving Lin Ziyin an approving glance. On his way here, he had heard that the true owner of the academy was actually Lin Ziyin.
With Lin Ziyin, the owner of the academy, showing so much respect to the teachers, who had slave status, in front of everyone, she indeed set a most practical and effective example for the students. If even the owner treated the teachers with such respect, how could the students and villagers of Shili Village neglect or belittle them?
Chapter 476: Chapter 476 Development of Private Schools (4)_1
"It seems that Miss Lin’s private school places a particular emphasis on both cultural and martial prowess?" Mei Hanqing asked, his eyes eagerly settling on Lin Ziyin.
"I value the cultivation of morality more." Lin Ziyin replied, "In the academy, we encourage every student to strive for holistic development in morality, intelligence, physical fitness, aesthetics, and labor. Also, we allow students to capitalize on their strengths according to their personal traits, and encourage them to engage in social practice outside school during holiday and spare time."
"What is social practice?" Mei Hanqing asked, puzzled. He had heard the term for the first time, and expected Lin Ziyin to clarify it for him.
"Reading thousands of books is not as useful as traveling thousands of miles. Practical application of knowledge is another teaching philosophy we advocate in our school." Lin Ziyin responded, then gave a brief introduction of the subjects taught in the academy, as well as their usual teaching methods.
Mei Hanqing became increasingly excited as he listened. He was not obstinate nor did he subscribe to the outdated ideologies of the old scholars from Daqin. The approach to education presented by Lin Ziyin was more appropriate for the Northern Land.
"I brought you here so you could study at the academy," said Chu Suifeng. "In the future, the academy in Shili Village will develop further. Many of my subordinates’ children have already been enrolled."
"Yes, my Prince." Mei Hanqing replied respectfully. Even without the Prince’s command, he would have endeavored to learn. After all, his most pressing concern was to cultivate capable and practical talents for the Prince.
The Northern Land near Border City was in a precarious position, with the ruthless Tatars to the north and the predatory Imperial Court to the south. The Prince’s plans were bound to cause unrest. If every student nurtured by the academies in the Northern Land could be both scholarly and martial, it would undoubtedly be the best return to the Prince.
"Dong, dong, dong." A deep bell toll echoed, and soon, a crowd of children ran out from the courtyards. They were boys and girls, each with a face brimming with joy and confidence.
"Does your school admit girls too?" Mei Hanqing puzzledly asked.
"In my view, boys and girls are equal." Lin Ziyin replied, unwilling to delve into gender equality with someone from a different era, "In fact, I believe that girls might be even more resilient than boys."
Mei Hanqing looked at her in surprise.
This was the first time he had heard someone suggest that women were stronger than men.
Chu Suifeng and Situ Gong looked at her with a light smile but didn’t object or show displeasure.
"Greetings, Prince and Miss Lin." The children greeted her with a smile when they saw her.
"This humble one greets the Prince and Miss Lin." Dressed in a white robe, with ink black hair fastened by a white jade hairpin, Qian Xuan exuded an elegant and gentle demeanor. Beside him stood the white-haired Doctor Xu. They had come over specifically to greet Lin Ziyin and Chu Suifeng.
"No formalities needed." Chu Suifeng casually responded.
Qian Xuan and Doctor Xu expressed their thanks, then stood unassumingly to one side.
A face with characters tattooed, signifying a slave status, Mei Hanqing was startled again.
The shock that the academy brought him today was unprecedented. He was usually a calm and steady scholar and had never felt as excited and bewildered as he did today.
"In the academy, the teachers hold the most respect." Lin Ziyin respectfully bowed to them.
Qian Xuan and Doctor Xu returned the courtesy. The natural manner of both sides indicated that Lin Ziyin was not simply putting on a show.
Mei Hanqing sighed inwardly, giving Lin Ziyin an approving glance. On his way here, he had heard that the true owner of the academy was actually Lin Ziyin.
With Lin Ziyin, the owner of the academy, showing so much respect to the teachers, who had slave status, in front of everyone, she indeed set a most practical and effective example for the students. If even the owner treated the teachers with such respect, how could the students and villagers of Shili Village neglect or belittle them?
Chapter 478: Chapter 478 Development of Private Schools (6)_1
This line of reasoning appeared reasonable, but Mei Hanqing was no fool. He could tell that Lin Ziyin was trying to placate him.
Although Mei Hanqing was a scholar, he was not one to be easily dismissed. Even Lin Ziyin’s blunt words had not completely dismissed his hopes. "Miss Lin, in deference to the Prince and Mr. Situ, please assist this official. After all, I am serving the Prince, and since I am new to the Northern Land, I am unfamiliar with the local customs. Please consider this a favor to me. I will always remember your kindness."
"Even if the academy doesn’t send people, it can still help alleviate your concerns, Minister Mei." Lin Ziyin answered with an embarrassed smile, yet still not yielding.
At this, Mr. Xu heaved a small sigh of relief.
If he had been new to the Northern Land, and an opportunity like this was presented to him, he would have grabbed it without hesitation and followed Minister Mei. But now, he was just as reluctant to leave Shili Village. Or rather, even if he wanted to leave, the descendants of the Xu Family who had survived, did not want to.
His son and grandchildren were not only shouldering responsibilities in the Medical Research Institute founded jointly by the prince and Miss Lin, they were also the research staff of the Lin Family’s cosmetic workshop. His son once mentioned that the joy and fulfillment he found living in Shili Village was the sum of his entire earlier life.
Most importantly, Miss Lin had just recently discussed with him the plans to establish a medical school in Shili Village which would offer courses in traditional Chinese medicine, surgery, and even obstetrics and gynecology. Which doctor wouldn’t want to be hailed as a pioneer in their field? Doctor Xu was confident that their current surgical research on death row inmates and the deceased would place the Xu family in the annals of history. At the very least, no other doctor in the Northern Land would surpass the Xu family again.
An outstanding horse requires a good rider to showcase its capabilities, and everyone in the Xu family regarded Lin Ziyin and Prince Ling as those exceptional riders. It was only natural that they, as the outstanding horses, would want to reciprocate their riders’ recognition and gratitude.
"Miss Lin, if you have a good solution, please tell us." Mei Hanqing asked urgently.
"Our private school can be freely open to Minister Mei. Any scholar sent by Minister Mei can come here to study. Once Minister Mei approves, these scholars can return to assist Minister Mei. Moreover, representatives can be sent from each academy periodically." Lin Ziyin proposed with a smile.
"This is a good solution." Situ Gong was the first to agree.
Chu Suifeng also nodded slightly, "Sending the most learned scholars from each academy every year is a test and learning opportunity for them."
"Prince Chu speaks well." Lin Ziyin looked at Chu Suifeng approvingly, "In academics, every method has its own strengths and weaknesses. Having the opportunity to learn and exchange knowledge will stimulate collective progress and rectification of shortcomings."
Despite the good solution, Mei Hanqing felt some regret. Talent, indeed, served best under one’s control. However, he reconsidered, given that Lin Ziyi would potentially become the mistress of Prince Ling’s Residence, she certainly wouldn’t withhold resources. At worst, he would send scholars from various academies to learn at the private school on a rotational basis. "Miss Lin indeed possesses both intellect and benevolence. I am grateful for your selfless assistance."
Considering herself a commoner, Lin Ziyin did not dare accept his gratitude without cause, and quickly stood to return Mei Hanqing’s courtesy.
Hearing their conversation, Qian Xuan and Doctor Xu were filled with joy. With Minister Mei’s words today, they could already envision the future glory of the private school.
The mere thought of all the scholars in the Northern Land studying at the private school stirred a passionate warmth within them.
Chapter 479: Chapter 479 Development of Private Schools (7)_1
"Since everything is settled, Prince, Mr. Mei, why don’t we return to Feng City," Situ Gong suggested with a smile.
"Has everything you were supposed to prepare been taken care of?" Chu Suifeng asked.
"Prince, rest assured, everything is ready," answered Situ Gong with a bow.
"In seven days, it will be the birthday of my grandmother, and then, you’ll need to accompany me to celebrate it," Chu Suifeng said, looking at Lin Ziyin.
Lin Ziyin looked at him in surprise, "Prince, wouldn’t that be inappropriate? I’m not familiar with the old lady and I have never had any contact with the Marquis Residence. If I just show up uninvited, it might cause gossip."
Lin Ziyin’s thoughts were simple. Chu Suifeng’s suggestion wasn’t just for show. The old lady at the Marquis Residence was the prince’s grandmother, and it was said that she was very fond of Chu Suifeng, he had also demonstrated his respect for her many times. When her birthday comes, Chu Suifeng, no matter how noble his status, he will surely be there. And if Chu Suifeng takes her along, with what identity would she go? As a maid? Partner? Or as the woman of the Prince?
The first two options definitely didn’t seem right and as for the latter, Lin Ziyin was strongly against it. Although she knew that Chu Suifeng had more than just a passing interest in her, she was still not willing to get too close to him, let alone move into the royal palace. The thought of the many women in the Prince’s backyard made her feel disgusted.
Chu Suifeng had once promised to deal with the women in his backyard, yet something was still bothering Lin Ziyin. The truth was, she never had a serious romantic relationship. During her time at the modern university, although there were quite a few boys chasing after her, they were all scared off by her cold demeanor.
Among these people, there were stubborn ones like Chu Suifeng, but they all treaded carefully and were courteous while being enthusiastic, unlike Chu Suifeng who was domineering, deciding her fate without even asking for her approval.
Lin Ziyin felt some hesitation, helplessness, but more than anything else, it was the disrespect that filled her with anger.
"Miss Lin," Situ Gong was very adept at observing others, he clearly saw that Lin Ziyin was rather resistant to the Prince’s plan. The Prince deeply desired something he could not have, while the Goddess was indifferent, leaving him mildly disappointed in his heart.
It was rare for the Prince to have feelings for a woman and yet, the lady in question showed no interest in him, he couldn’t help but question if the Prince would be angry after being rejected.
"No matter what, you must accompany me there. This year is unlike any other, my grandmother isn’t well, she might not make it through the winter," Chu Suifeng explained patiently, trying to persuade her. Although he never had dealt with women before, his words came across a bit stiff. "She is a kind lady. I must take you to see her."
When it comes to warfare, he was an expert, but handling women was a thorny issue for Chu Suifeng, he could only keep emphasizing the importance of his grandmother to him.
This sincerity might have moved Lin Ziyin, and in the end, she didn’t resist.
This made Chu Suifeng very satisfied.
Unknown to her, when Lin Ziyin saw Chu Suifeng flustered while explaining himself to her, she suddenly remembered her lonely self in the modern world. Perhaps in some ways, Chu Suifeng who had grown up in the temple and she were quite similar. She lost her mother at a young age, her father was mostly absent, not only that, she had to deal with the constant nagging and oppression. Whereas, her little uncle who was not much older than her, was already overwhelmed by his business. He had no idea how to take care of her, so he just bought her the most expensive toys every day.
How lonely she was back then, always wanting to talk to someone, but finding someone to talk to was incredibly hard.
Recalling the past, Lin Ziyin even admired herself a bit, wondering how she had managed to endure through those times.
"I’ll need to go back to handle some affairs; in seven days, I’ll come to pick you up," Chu Suifeng interrupted her thoughts.
"Ah." Lin Ziyin nodded in a fluster.
Chu Suifeng gave her a concerned look but Lin Ziyin dodged his inquisitive gaze. Seeing this, Chu Suifeng didn’t ask more and left with Bow and Crossbow and his subordinates, full of doubts.
However, Situ Gong didn’t rush to leave, he took a detour to the vegetable garden outside the village, where he found the old man working.
"Mr. Situ." The sweaty old man first saw the plain cloth shoes, and then looked up along the shoes until he finally saw the radiant smile on Situ Gong’s face.
The old man was not unfamiliar with Situ Gong, who often came and went with Chu Suifeng at the Lin family. Even though he knew him well, the old man was very polite whenever he saw Situ Gong, always speaking to him with respect.
"Old man." Situ Gong’s tone was even more respectful when speaking to the old man. If Situ Gong’s enemies ever heard him speak this way, they would definitely wonder who this old man was.
There were fewer than five people in the world that Situ Gong held in high regard!
"Old man, do you have a moment?" Situ Gong asked with a smiling face. "I would like to have a chat with you."
Chapter 480: Chapter 480: The Tomb King’s Wife(1)_1
As Chu Suifeng’s counsellor, Situ Gong was undoubtedly a very busy man. Yet, the idea that he would come to a field to chat with an old farmer was simply unbelievable.
The old man gave him a penetrating gaze.
In the face of his meaningful look, Situ Gong responded with a constant smile.
"Mr. Situ, you’re a busy man. It’s a privilege for an old man like me that you would take the time to idle chat with me," the old man finally said, nodding slightly.
"I wouldn’t dare to think so," Situ Gong politely replied. "The production of food is the foundation of survival in the Northern Land. Regarding being busy, you sir, are not idling either."
At his flattery, old man Lin merely smiled faintly, not indulging in further courtesies.
Not far from the vegetable field, there were houses for the workers to rest. The old man also kept one here as a place to rest.
The house was small, sparsely furnished. A small bed, neatly covered in clean blankets, a small table, on which sat a set of tea utensils.
The old man approached the table and poured a cup of tea for Situ Gong and himself. "It’s nearly autumn, but the weather is still hot. This is chilled tea I brewed, please help yourself."
"Thank you." Situ Gong picked up the cup and took a sip. It wasn’t merely chilled boiled water but actual herbal tea, with a hint of sweetness. As a northerner, he wasn’t partial to the taste. "It’s somewhat sweet."
"I forgot you are a northerner." The old man gave him an apologetic glance.
"Although I don’t like it very much, it’s still good to have a bit in such hot weather." Situ Gong said with a smile.
"If you have something to say, sir, feel free to speak freely. There are only the two of us in the house." The old man got straight to the point, not wanting to waste Situ Gong’s time.
"The old master is indeed no ordinary man." Situ Gong started with a smile, "I came here today to discuss the matter of the Prince and Miss Lin."
He became serious.
"Ziyin can make decisions for herself." The old man firmly shut down the topic. He didn’t want to continue this topic.
"I know coming here today is a bit abrupt," Situ Gong gave a wry smile. "Normally, the master’s marriage is not something for people like us to discuss. However, as this issue is related to the survival of the people in the Northern Land, I can not delay or neglect it."
"Sir, you are exaggerating. She’s just a little girl. How can she bear such a great responsibility as the survival of the people?" The old man was displeased, his tone becoming colder.
Situ Gong felt somewhat awkward but wasn’t deterred. "Miss Lin is not an ordinary young lady. Has the old master ever considered that soon the Imperial Court might hear of Miss Lin’s fame and what she’s done? Just her contribution to rice, corn, and wheat plantation alone is enough to make her the focus of the court."
The old man remained silent.
"Others might not understand what I’m saying, but I believe with your wisdom, you should be able to understand my message." Situ Gong attempted to persuade, being Chu Suifeng’s counsellor, he knew how to persuade others. "The amount of responsibility a person can take equals their abilities. With Miss Lin’s current capabilities, becoming the lady of the Wang Residence is, undoubtedly, the best choice. The court is decaying, the current ruler is unscrupulous in his methods. Even the few princes who have territory are scheming their own plans...."
"Why should you, sir, talk about state affairs with me, an old farmer?" The old man interrupted him directly.
"Because Miss Lin is extraordinary, and you, sir, are no ordinary man. Even if you wish to remain detached, some issues can’t be avoided just because you wish to avoid them. If the court orders Miss Lin to enter the palace, or the main family of Lin clan comes to propose a marriage, how would you respond then? Or, what if the princes with territories come knocking at your door asking for Miss Lin’s hand, you might be able to reject them, but have you considered how long the Lin family can hold off against such disturbances? Also, the Tatars in the North Country have always had informants in Feng City. If they come to know about Miss Lin’s abilities to improve their livelihood, they won’t sit idle." The words of Situ Gong grew sharper, nearly leaving the old man defenseless.