Chapter 936 Rejection

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Mr. Gu watched him leave with a sigh. He couldn’t help but wonder if Gu Chengye, despite being thirty years old, still possessed a childishness that prevented him from becoming truly independent.

Gu Chengrui later entrusted Gu Chengye to the two imperial officials, assigning him various errands.

When Gu Chengye had free time, he was brought to the academy to observe and participate in lessons.

Notably, over the past six months, Gu Chengye’s approach to handling situations has grown increasingly, likely due to his focused learning.

The following morning, Imperial Physician Li, owner of Jishi Medicine Hall, arrived to plead for leniency. Upon seeing the gifts in his hands, Gu Chengrui understood his purpose.

“It is an honor to have you here, Imperial Physician Li,” Gu Chengrui greeted him with a smile while standing up.

“Marquis An Le, you mock me,” Imperial Physician Li replied, his face etched with shame. “An old man like me has no right to come through these doors.”

He then presented the gift, saying, “Please accept this humble token of my appreciation.”

“If this gesture stems from our personal relationship, I’m happy to accept it. We’ll undoubtedly have ample opportunities to exchange medical knowledge in the future,” Gu Chengrui responded. “However, if it concerns the Jishi Medicine Hall issue, I cannot accept your offer.

“Remember, we are both members of the medical field. If the Medicine Hall’s prices were simply high, there would be room for discussion. But I trust you understand the gravity of selling counterfeit medicine as genuine medicine. You are well aware of the consequences.”

“Is there truly no room for compromise?”

“Imperial Physician Li, you’ve undoubtedly heard about the complaint letters. Their sheer number signifies widespread dissatisfaction with your establishment’s practices. If this continues, the future consequences are readily apparent, I believe. It would be in your best interest to rectify your mistakes and establish a positive reputation. Such actions will ensure the longevity of your business. What do you think?”

Seeing Gu Chengrui’s unwavering stance, Imperial Physician Li perceived the futility of further negotiation.

He deeply regretted supporting the establishment of the medical center and could only leave, fuming and frustrated, with his gifts untouched.

After lunch, while seeking a brief respite at the academy, Gu Chengrui was approached by Principal Zhou.

“Is the Qian Clan your reason for visiting?” Gu Chengrui inquired, offering him a seat.

“Indeed,” Principal Zhou confirmed. “How does the medical center plan to handle them?”

Gu Chengrui, feigning boredom, asked, “If you were in my position, how would you handle it?”

“Confiscate all fake medicine and their silver, perhaps,” Principal Zhou offered tentatively.

“And what becomes of the royal merchant’s medicine stock?” Gu Chengrui countered. “How do you imagine the Emperor would react upon learning of this? Beheading? Confiscation of property?”

“No, no, they wouldn’t supply fake medicine to the palace,” Principal Zhou hastily assured him. “All imperial physicians are intelligent.”

Gu Chengrui’s expression turned stern as he questioned, “So, does that imply the commoners are fools?”

Principal Zhou remained speechless, raising his hand twice in an attempt to speak but ultimately lowering it in resignation.

Gu Chengrui snorted in response. “As an imperial physician and head of the hospital, surely you understand the dangers of fake medicine. Now, regarding your accomplice…”

Before Gu Chengrui could finish, Principal Zhou, visibly panicked, shook his head rapidly. “Absolutely not! If I had known, I would have broken their legs myself!”

“Then fret not,” Gu Chengrui reassured him. “The medical center has consistently strived to eradicate fake medicine since its establishment.

“However, the Qian family not only dared to commit this crime but also brazenly distributed it throughout the capital. This act is a blatant mockery of the medical center’s authority..”