After collecting their ointment, the Apprentices chatted and laughed as they dispersed.
Zhou Chen walked over, that impeccable gentle smile still hanging on his face.
"Senior Brother Zhao, Junior Brother Fang, you've worked hard. See you tomorrow."
Zhao Tie nodded at him in acknowledgment.
Wang Pangzi also sauntered over, grinning as he greeted Zhao Tie and Fang Yuan, then followed the crowd away.
Only then did Zhao Tie say to Fang Yuan, "Junior Brother Fang, that's all for today's work at the Martial Arts School. See you tomorrow."
Only then did Fang Yuan realize that this was how a day at the Martial Arts School ended.
Several hundred taels of silver really only bought the guidance of a famous master! Fang Yuan had thought they might at least provide a meal...
Sweeping, tidying the equipment, watching martial demonstrations, practicing on one's own, helping brew medicine... The work was not particularly strenuous, yet it filled the day to the brim.
Today's experience had finally given him a preliminary understanding of the Martial Arts School's daily operations and interpersonal dynamics.
After parting with Zhao Tie, Fang Yuan walked alone along the road back to his small courtyard in the Outer City.
The crisp, chilly air entering his lungs calmed the excitement stirred up by training.
I forgot to ask Senior Brother Zhao or Senior Brother Wang whether there are any quick ways to make money in this county town, he thought.
Wang Pangzi was the young master of the Baimao Merchant Guild. If he could get an introduction from him, perhaps he could find work as a guard or escort with the guild.
The income would certainly be far better than searching on his own.
He weighed the Chopping knife that had been with him for so long. Its blade already bore