The Princess of Northern Land
Chapter 477 Development of Private Schools (5)_1

Chapter 477: Chapter 477 Development of Private Schools (5)_1

"This is Qian Xuan, the first dean of our academy. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask him," Lin Ziyin introduced. "Qian Xuan, this gentleman is Mr. Mei who works directly under the prince. Please cooperate as best as you can," she added.

"Yes, miss," Qian Xuan responded calmly, not intimidated by the visitor’s status.

Mei Hanqing admired him. Surely, such a person would lead to exceptional students. The question was, how capable was he and could he really shoulder the responsibility of being the dean?

Subsequently, Qian Xuan demonstrated his academic prowess.

Having approved of the teaching methods in Shili Village’s private school, Mei Hanqing’s questions mainly revolved around the running of an academy, though he also attempted to gauge Qian Xuan’s limits.

Qian Xuan did not let Lin Ziyin down. He provided answers to all of Mei Hanqing’s profound questions, even adding his unique perspective to many of his responses, veering away from standard, predictable answers.

By the end of the interrogation, Mei Hanqing found himself muttering, disgruntled. How was it possible for someone as learned as Qian Xuan to end up falsely accused and dispatched to the Northern Land? The decaying scent of the Imperial Court had clearly gone marrow-deep; the prince’s self-imposed exile from the possibility of food shortage, and subsequent decision to assert autonomy in the Northern Land, seemed like a cautious move.

"Miss Lin, how about letting Mr. Qian join me in founding new academies? Would that be acceptable?" Mei Hanqing regarded Qian Xuan as a knowledgeable scholar, particularly experienced in private schooling. He had plans to establish a few academies in the Northern Land and purposed to mirror the educational approach of Shili Village. Clearly, Qian Xuan would be his most suitable option.

"I don’t have an issue," Lin Ziyin responded politely, despite her irritation. Someone else was attempting to claim the talent she discovered and fostered, based on her guidance. "However, it would be best if you asked Mr. Qian himself."

"As a servant bought by Miss Lin, I will follow her until my last day. As long as she does not sell me, I will never leave the private school," Qian Xuan made his stand, even before Mei Hanqing could ask.

Mei Hanqing found his response both surprising and disappointing; given the chance to become his educational supervisor, Qian Xuan’s future would be smoother than if he stayed in Shili Village. At the very least, having the opportunity to become a freeman was something every slave longed for. He did not expect Qian Xuan’s firm denial.

"I am grateful for your generous offer, but I am aware of my own limitations. I believe I am only suited for a small private school like this," Qian Xuan remarked before respectfully greeting Mei Hanqing again.

Lin Ziyin was secretly delighted to see him smoothly navigate the situation.

"Miss Lin, I have intentions of adopting the methods of your private school in establishing free academies across the Northern Land. Would you be able to spare a few tutors for my cause?" As Mei Hanqing spoke to Qian Xuan, he subtly eyed Chu Suifeng and Situ Gong, hoping that they would lend him their support.

Unfortunately, Chu Suifeng and Situ Gong merely smiled and made no moves to assist. Left with no choice, Mei Hanqing had to brazenly request Lin Ziyin for personnel directly.

"Mr. Mei, it’s not that I want to undermine your authority," Lin Ziyin began, causing Mei Hanqing’s heart to sink. It seemed that she was not willing to offer him anyone.

True enough, Lin Ziyin continued, "We’re seeing more and more students here at the private school, which makes teachers incredibly valuable. If I were to give you my staff, what would become of the school here? We’re both looking to educate. It wouldn’t be fair to open one academy only to neglect another, would it?"