Zhuang Mocheng gazed deeply at Chen Xiaojun and said sincerely, "Xiaojun, you truly are the academy's lucky star!"
"The Chen Clan's generous assistance is undoubtedly like delivering coal in the snow for the academy."
Chen Xiaojun smiled and waved a hand, replying modestly, "Elder Zhuang, you flatter me."
"The Chen Clan and the academy have always enjoyed close ties. When the academy faces difficulties, we naturally cannot stand by and do nothing."
"Besides, the academy has nurtured so many outstanding talents and provided considerable help and support to the Chen Clan as well."
"This is only what we ought to do. Consider it a small token of our gratitude to the academy."
Zhuang Mocheng nodded and said with deep feeling, "Indeed. The academy and the Chen Clan have always supported each other and grown together."
Chen Xiaojun continued, "Elder Zhuang, regarding the application for additional funding, I'll go with Dean Chen to discuss it with City Lord Xue as soon as possible."
"I believe that as long as we fully demonstrate the academy's contributions and potential, City Lord Xue will certainly support us."
Zhuang Mocheng nodded confidently. "With you and Dean Chen handling it, I can rest easy."
Chen Xiaojun smiled and nodded, then shifted the subject. "However, Elder Zhuang, relying on ourselves is better than relying on others!"
At this, Zhuang Mocheng's brows furrowed slightly, and he asked in confusion, "???"
Chen Xiaojun explained patiently, "What I mean is that if our academy could develop strong financial resources of its own and become self-sufficient, our path forward would be much broader, no longer constrained by outside factors."
"We should actively explore the academy's economic potential, identify and develop new sources of income, and lay a solid foundation for its long-term growth."
"That way, whatever storms we face in the