It was all just a bit of banter with Old Ding; there was no way Zhao An would actually borrow money from him and not pay it back.
Upon returning to the Prefecture Academy, Zhao An summoned Academician Ma, Mentor Tong, and the rest of his subordinates. After issuing a few instructions regarding the academy's operations, the headmaster clocked out early and went home to inform his wife of his upcoming business trip. She immediately began packing his things. That night, naturally, was filled with tenderness.
The following morning, the escort team arranged by the academy arrived. Mentor Tong was in charge, primarily responsible for the headmaster's travel arrangements—food, clothing, lodging, coordinating with the Provincial Education Bureau, and handling the trivialities at relay stations along the way. Four mounted guards carrying sabers were included to bolster the headmaster’s official authority and prevent any ignorant rabble from causing trouble. Adding in the carriage driver, the party totaled seven.
Chapter 135