(One of the not so good boring episodes. I wanted to warn you accordingly. Don't have high expectations from this section.)
"Do you want to buy this place?"
Hearing the merchant's eager tone, Simon nodded and confirmed. "Yes, we want to purchase this entire apartment."
"I would be more than happy to assist you," the merchant said enthusiastically. He had neatly cut black hair, wore a formal suit, and his beard was clean and well-trimmed.
Johan, a well-known merchant in Erntestadt, was a sharp and well-mannered man. He was known for being modest and hardworking.
At least, that's what Simon had heard. Because most of the people in the neighborhood spoke highly of Johan's character.
"What will you be using this apartment for?"
"We're going to establish a religious school," Simon said calmly, as Johan's eyes widened. "A school where everyone can receive free education, with everything provided by us."
"You're going to use this apartment as a school?" Johan asked, mildly surprised. Then, smiling slightly, Johan looked at Simon with admiration. "What you're doing is noble. I admire it."
"You can buy this place for 500,000 gold."
Hearing Johan's offer, Simon thought this price was quite low. The apartment was generally large, spacious, with six units on each floor, and the building had three floors in a horizontal design.
Unlike typical buildings, it didn't rise vertically but expanded outward. Simon also noticed that even the windows remained clean, with no dust or grime, which made him think Johan had spent considerable money to maintain it well.
When it came to classrooms, Simon's idea was to demolish the kitchens, restrooms, and other rooms, turning each unit into a single large room.
With the help of George and Emily, the units could easily be converted into single rooms. By Simon's decision, each floor would also have separate restrooms for men and women.
"This is a bit like—" Simon began to speak curiously, but Johan quickly interrupted. "I know, it's quite a cheap price. Please see it as a favor from me."
Simon paused for a moment, then smiled. "Your kindness won't be forgotten. If you ever need anything, you are welcome to our Church."
"Huh? Is this new Church yours?" Johan asked, raising an eyebrow with curiosity. Simon nodded. "Yes, the Church is ours."
"I assumed you were from the Church of Light," Johan laughed and waved his hand dismissively. "After all, only they would think of buying an apartment to open a school."
"Did the Church of Light try to establish a school here before?"
"Yes, but all Church of Light religious schools were either destroyed or confiscated by the State under Grand Lorenzo," Johan said with a hint of gratitude. Hearing the slight distaste in Johan's voice toward the Church of Light, Simon asked with curiosity, "Don't you like the Church of Light?"
Johan shook his head and denied it. "I don't harbor hatred or ill feelings toward any Church. I was just uncomfortable with the Church of Light's religious schools."
"Why?"
"The Church of Light provided education that confused people's minds and hindered us," Johan said seriously. "If you plan to do the same, I'm afraid you can't buy this apartment."
"Don't worry; we'll provide objective education for the people," Simon said quickly. Johan chuckled lightly, then patted Simon on the shoulder. "I trust you. No worries; as long as you provide proper education, you may proceed as you wish."
"Does age matter?" asked a tall, slender man in his mid-thirties with black hair and dark eyes.
"No, age is not important. What matters is your educational level." Hearing this, people visibly relaxed. Those hoping to benefit from free education smiled with relief.
"If you don't know how to read or write or lack basic math skills, don't worry because we have Level 1 classes." Urien explained, "Once you can write half a page correctly in Level 1, you'll move on to the next level, Level 2."
"I see, thank you," the slender man said with satisfaction as he stepped back, and Urien glanced around, curious if anyone else had questions.
Noticing a young girl looking at him, his gaze softened. The girl was dressed in rather worn clothes, and when Urien saw her hesitantly raise her hand as if she wanted to ask something, a warm smile appeared on his face as he looked at the little girl.
"Young lady, do you have a question? Don't hesitate to ask me anything," Urien said in a reassuring manner. The little girl's green eyes sparkled with excitement as she stammered out her question.
"C-can I really attend school for free?" She spoke with slight worry and hesitation, looking so anxious that a few people nearby were visibly softened by her cuteness.
Urien chuckled and nodded. "As I said, everything is free. Now, tell me, where is your mother?"
"My mom's sick, so she couldn't come," the girl replied, averting her gaze. When Urien noticed a momentary sadness in her eyes, his expression became more serious. After a brief pause, he looked at her with sympathy before addressing the crowd again.
"When you register, please don't forget to stop by and see me, young lady. I have something special to discuss with you."
"O-okay," the girl said, not quite understanding why Urien wanted to speak with her, but still nodded in agreement. Urien smiled and looked at the others. "If there are no more questions, let's proceed with the registration."
Since no one else had a question, Urien continued, "Also, after registering, please remember to pick up a copy of our Holy Book."
Some people in the crowd still hesitated, which didn't escape Urien's notice, and a quick smile appeared on his lips. "Also, don't forget to take a brochure if you'd like more information on the social aid our Church still provides."
Seeing that his plan was working as more people became enthusiastic, Urien stepped aside, letting Emily and George manage the registration process.
Going over to Simon, Urien happily watched the crowd. Simon looked equally pleased and gave Urien a friendly pat on the shoulder.
"Adding a guide along with the Holy Book was a smart idea, Urien." Simon looked at Urien with appreciation. Urien grinned slyly, and Simon continued, "Who would have thought you had not just a silver tongue but also marketing skills?"
Pleased by Simon's praise, Urien noticed a small girl approaching and raised an eyebrow curiously. "That young lady seems like she wants to speak with you?"
"Yes," Urien said, "I invited her over myself."
"Why?"
Urien quickly answered Simon's question, "She came here without her mother. I'm curious about her situation. If she needs help, I want to assist her."
Surprised by Urien's kindness, Simon smiled gently. "Then I won't take up your time. See you, Urien."
"See you, Lord Simon."
Upon hearing himself called "Lord," Simon's eyebrows furrowed humorously. Urien chuckled and went over to the girl.
"Come, let's talk in my office." Offering his hand kindly, Urien gently asked. The girl nodded quickly and took Urien's hand.
Then they went to Urien's office.