The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

The blueprint given by Song Ci has been completely simplified according to the elementary school of later generations, with the campus divided into several parts, fashioned similarly to a complete school.

The teaching building, dormitories for students, dining hall, and a large kitchen are connected, even including a library. As there are both male and female students, the dormitories are separated by gender with a small courtyard gate, avoiding suspicion between genders. At that time, the teaching masters will reside with the students.

The scale is to be set as desired, but the facilities might not be possible, for example, the desks and chairs for studying are small tables and cushions for sitting cross-legged, with each art room arranged differently.

Steward Ping led Song Ci first into the classroom in the teaching building for learning reading and writing, built to her specifications, facing south, with windows on all four sides, making it very open and well-lit.

While bowing and introducing, he spoke of the upcoming arrangements. Since it was known that Song Ci was setting up the Charitable School, many volunteered to be teachers, especially for teaching literacy and reasoning, of which there were countless.

”Are some intentions not really about the teaching itself?” Song Ci chuckled lightly.

Some people are not entirely focused on teaching but are looking to connect with the people behind the Charitable School, such as her, or Song Zhiyuan, which could indeed be beneficial.

”Nothing escapes your discerning eyes.” Steward Ping laughed as he praised, ”Since the site for this Charitable School was chosen, many have approached me seeking positions here, regardless of whether it’s as a gatekeeper or working in the kitchen, the number is enough to line up all the way to the Inner City.”

Song Ci glanced at him sideways and said, ”Since I’ve entrusted the managing affairs to you, I naturally trust you. As the saying goes, ’In doubtful persons, do not use them; in used persons, do not doubt them.’ Therefore, in this Charitable School, I will not inquire about the chores inside and out. It’s all handed to you.”

Steward Ping quickly responded, ”I dare not deceive Madam.”

”I am not concerned about anything else, as per my initial requirements: as long as the accounts are clear, no shoddy goods, no favoritism, and only those who are truly competent are hired, then it doesn’t matter who handles it.” Song Ci said indifferently, ”You also know, this is a Charitable School, and if the materials are of inferior quality, and any accidents happen, I will hold someone accountable. Those studying and learning arts here are genuinely needy orphans. This Charitable School is not for profit but to truly help and promote good. If mishandled, it could bring misfortune. I assume Steward Ping wouldn’t dare gamble with his descendants’ futures.”

The words were spoken plainly but carried a hidden warning.

Sweat broke out on Steward Ping’s forehead, and he knelt immediately to pledge loyalty, ”Madam, I too understand right from wrong, I would never dare to commit reckless misdeeds. I too wish for blessings and longevity to extend to my descendants. If I dare to deceive, let me be struck by thunderbolts.”

”Stand up.” Song Ci said, ”If I didn’t trust you, I would have dismissed you long ago. That’s still the case now; fail in your duties, and your position will be stripped and replaced with someone capable. As for me, though my vision is not sharp, my mind is clear. I know the saying that if the water is too clear, there will be no fish. As long as it’s not excessive, some small favors and benefits, I won’t concern myself over.”

Steward Ping was drenched in cold sweat, smiling along, ”Madam, you are naturally kind-hearted. The servant will follow your lead without deception.”

”That’s good.” Song Ci said, ”When selecting people for the Charitable School, be sure to evaluate them thoroughly, picking only those with skill and real ability. As for those seeking connections, forget it; they won’t stay.”