277 Meeting a Nobleman
He couldn't figure out what this young girl was up to. If she intended to offer a gift, it was certainly a humble one.
Perhaps her family is too poor, he thought, then said, "There's no need for that, young lady. Our academy has plenty of these fruits and vegetables in its own gardens."
"Oh." Zhao Zhitong responded, her eyes darting as a plan formed in her mind. "I know the Dean probably doesn't lack vegetables or food, but this is a token of our sincerity."
As she spoke, she suddenly started coughing, her whole body appearing to weaken. "Young man," she said pitifully, "you may not know this, but I'm actually very ill. Before I... before I pass on, I wish to see the Dean whom I admire so much. It's this humble girl's only remaining wish in this life. Can you please help me?"
She then looked sadly at the attendant.
The attendant was startled. "Ah! You're sick?"
