Due to the urgency of the situation, I negotiated with them to borrow money first and repay it later with news. I thought it would take a lot of persuasion, but surprisingly, after just a few exchanges, they agreed to lend me the money.
Wen Zhaojun expressed concern, noting that anyone capable of running such a business must be shrewd. Although the money was lent, they might secretly investigate. If they found out that my excuse was false, they would definitely cause me trouble.
The excuse was true; I genuinely needed money.
Lian Baoying was puzzled. "But I heard that you were buying and selling at the Imperial Academy and engaging in various unexpected small businesses, making quite a fortune. How could you be short on cash?"
"My family member is seriously ill and requires expensive medicines like Ginseng to sustain life every day."
Upon hearing this, Lian Baoying felt guilty. "So you really are in need of money. I'm sorry; I once looked down on you for those businesses."
"It’s fine, as long as I can be at peace with myself."
Lian Baoying quickly offered, "What precious medicines do you need? Make a list. My family consists of martial generals who often suffer injuries. The palace frequently grants us medicine that we can't use up; there’s still plenty in stock. If you need any, please don’t hesitate to ask."
"No need," Wang Kuan declined her kindness. "I already have a stable source for purchasing medicine at reasonable prices. We often collaborate, and it's quite convenient."
Lian Baoying insisted, "My family's medicines won't cost you anything."
"I appreciate your goodwill, Miss Lian," Wang Kuan replied. "For now, I can manage within my means, and I don't want to owe too many favors; it's hard to repay them."
Wen Zhaojun also spoke up, "I can help you consult the royal physician."
Wang Kuan rejected again. "Miss, I've already found the best doctor for my relative. In the past, I consulted an old physician who told me my relative had only a few months left to live. But after switching to another doctor, my relative has been able to extend their life significantly. While the illness cannot be cured completely, it hasn't worsened either; my relative can even go out occasionally and handle some simple household chores."
The doctor Wang Kuan referred to was Old Vine, and his source for medicine was through transactions with Sang Qingxiao from the demon clan, who provided fair prices based on the average market rates.
When Sang Qingxiao approached Wang Kuan, his relative was already in critical condition. Once Old Vine intervened, Wang Kuan—being a devoted son—immediately insisted on paying to ensure Sang Qingxiao wouldn't suffer any loss. Sang Qingxiao appreciated this stubbornness and went along with him.
Meng Zhangyuan also wanted to offer her assistance. "I wasn't aware of your situation before. The subsidies provided by the school are tiered; how about I apply to the academy for you to receive the highest subsidy?"
"Even though the extra money may seem like a drop in the bucket for you, it's better than nothing. Besides, you deserve it."
"Meng Zhangyuan," Wang Kuan said, "this is too much trouble for you. Cui Zhangyuan already has significant objections regarding your handling of the girls' Headmaster position; if you intervene in matters concerning the Boys' Academy because of me, he will surely be displeased."
Meng Zhangyuan had her confidence. In terms of academic standing, she was far superior to Cui Zhangyuan; otherwise, she wouldn't hold such a position. Moreover, she had family backing her up and intended to reassure Wang Kuan not to worry.
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