Chapter 714

Willow froze for a moment. "Director Gale, you know Old Master Chase's son?" "O-of course!" Bill's voice suddenly rose an octave, carrying a slight rasp. "Who in Black Lead Village doesn't know Teacher Chase and Teacher James? Back then, I even shared the same cowshed with Teacher Chase!" For the first time, Philip's attention shifted toward him. He seemed on the verge of saying something, but the words never came. Bill continued unprompted, "Teacher William and Teacher Lara were true benefactors of our Black Lead Village. Don't let our poverty fool you—this year alone, several kids took the college entrance exams, and two even got in. I dropped out after middle school myself, but it was Teacher William who kept teaching me. That's how I became the commune director." Willow couldn't help but ask, "Director Gale, your leg...?" "Heh." Bill chuckled dryly. "Got broken back then. My grandfather was labeled a 'rich peasant' and had to undergo struggle sessions. At first, our village just we