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墨書 Inktalez
The Big Merchant might have some issues. After noticing the disappearance of the Masters, I began to suspect the unfortunate souls who vanished from the Charity Hall. I had inquired once, but everyone at the Charity Hall seemed unaware. This place is open and unregulated; people come and go as they please, mostly drifters, and even if reported to the authorities, no one would investigate.
Yet, I still felt that if there were no leads, it would be wise to start my inquiries here. Sang Qingxiao took note and asked why Meng Zhangyuan had come here to teach.
I was a drifter in my childhood; my father died in the war. Later, due to my cleverness, I was taken in as a maid by the daughter of a wealthy merchant. The young lady was kind-hearted and, seeing my intelligence, allowed me to study alongside her. Eventually, during a family upheaval, everyone perished, and I found my way to Jingjing City. There, I encountered the recruitment for the Women's Academy. While studying, I participated in various competitions in poetry, music, chess, calligraphy, and painting throughout the city, earning a good reputation. With the support of the Wen Family, I graduated and became a Master, eventually rising to the position of Headmaster.
Throughout this journey, I encountered many benefactors. Although my difficult times were brief, they left a profound impact on me. When the Charity Hall was recruiting, I happened to pass by and recalled my past with compassion. Initially intending to help out as a Master during my spare time, I gradually became more involved and took on the responsibilities of managing the small school within.
It was an act of kindness that unexpectedly led to multiple disappearances. My heart was filled with unease and guilt; whether they were alive or dead, I owed it to them—and myself—to find answers.
As Sang Qingxiao conversed with Meng Zhangyuan, she observed the entire Charity Hall. It was indeed spacious with detailed areas designated for different purposes. Each person receiving aid wore old clothes but showed no signs of wear or tear. When interacting with the children, she noticed their clothing was thick and warm.
Meals were served twice a day—bread and porridge. The bread was made from aged flour and appeared slightly dark but was not spoiled; the porridge contained visible grains of rice along with their homemade pickles. Everyone seemed satisfied with their meals.
Moreover, there were opportunities for education. It was no exaggeration to say that these individuals had higher living standards than some rural farmers; this truly exemplified genuine charity—efforts that required significant commitment.
At that moment, an elderly man with gray hair approached them. Meng Zhangyuan introduced him as Huang the Steward.
Huang the Steward assessed Sang Qingxiao and asked if she was the new Master brought by Meng Zhangyuan.
"No," she replied herself. "I am a student of Meng Zhangyuan's and also run a Small Tavern. In this cold weather, Meng Zhangyuan wanted to provide some meat dishes for those at Charity Hall and asked if there were any unsold fresh ingredients from my tavern that could be donated."
I knew Meng Zhangyuan would be surprised when she came here to teach and insisted on bringing me along to see it for myself.
"I have seen several Charity Halls in various places," Huang the Steward continued. "But yours has truly opened my eyes! You have separate dining halls, bathing facilities, classrooms, and even assign appropriate tasks for everyone—each face radiates genuine smiles."
It was unprecedented and impressive! Truly impressive!
Later on, Sang Qingxiao seriously discussed with Huang the Steward about sending meat dishes twice a week.
As Meng Zhangyuan and Sang Qingxiao exited Charity Hall, Meng Zhangyuan's face flushed slightly as she said, "I apologize for your expenses; I originally intended to find another excuse." There were quite a few people at Charity Hall—hundreds of them—so honestly speaking, once a month for meat dishes would suffice; I could contribute some costs too.
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