Chapter 154 "It's me."

At 6:30 a.m. the next morning, the loudspeaker blared in the courtyard of the guesthouse.

Shu Ran woke up. Her sleep wasn't deep, but the quality was okay. Lin Jing was still asleep.

Shu Ran got up quietly, washed up, changed into her Lenin suit, and carefully combed her hair. The person in the mirror still had some dark circles under their eyes, but their gaze was clear.

At 6:50, Lin Jing also woke up, rubbing her eyes as she sat up: "What time is it?"

"It's almost seven o'clock."

"Oh dear, I overslept." Lin Jing quickly got out of bed.

At 7:00 AM sharp, breakfast was served in the cafeteria. When Shu Ran and Lin Jing arrived, many delegates were already eating. Since a formal meeting was scheduled for today, everyone refrained from idle chatter.

Xiao Zhao brought over his tray and sat down with them. His eyes were a little red, clearly he hadn't slept well.

“Officer Zhao,” Shu Ran said gently, “Relax. Everything that needs to be prepared has been prepared. Now we need to conserve our energy and maintain our condition.”

Xiao Zhao nodded and buried his head in his food.

After dinner, back in their room, Shu Ran did a final check of the things she needed to bring. Lin Jing did the same. They exchanged a glance and remained silent.

At 8:20, the delegates began heading to the auditorium in Building No. 1. The auditorium could accommodate four or five hundred people, and a red banner hung above the stage. The seats were divided into sections with name tags. Shu Ran found her seat, slightly towards the back of the middle. Xiao Zhao sat next to her.

Representatives from various regions took their seats according to their assigned areas, and the venue quickly filled up. Staff members moved about in the aisles, adjusting microphones and checking the sound system. On the stage, the leaders had not yet entered, but staff members were already setting up nameplates and teacups.

At 8:30 sharp, patriotic songs began to play, and everyone stood up. The side door of the stage opened, and a group of leaders entered, guided by staff. Leading the way were the main leaders of the Ministry of Education, including Minister Zhou. The leaders then took their seats on the stage.

The music stopped. The host announced the opening of the meeting, and the national anthem was played. Everyone stood at attention. After the national anthem, the host introduced the leaders and guests present and read the meeting agenda. Then, a leader delivered the opening address.

The speaker was the head of the Ministry of Education, an elderly man with silver hair. He spoke calmly and deliberately, covering a broad range of topics, emphasizing the importance of education, the current situation, and the tasks of the meeting.

Shu Ran listened attentively, occasionally jotting down key points in her notebook.

The opening remarks lasted forty minutes. Then, Vice Minister Sun delivered a keynote report on the current state of education nationwide, its main achievements, existing problems, and future work plans. The report was very detailed and used a large amount of data. Shu Ran listened more attentively; this information helped her understand her own position.

The report lasted an hour and a half, with a fifteen-minute break in between. The delegates got up to move around, going to the restrooms or to the corridor for some fresh air. Shu Ran also stood up and stretched her stiff neck and shoulders.

Xiao Zhao whispered, "Comrade Shu Ran, would you like some water?"

Shu Ran shook her head, her gaze sweeping across the hall. Liao Cheng wasn't on the stage; he must be somewhere in the audience.

After the break, the meeting resumed. In the afternoon, another vice minister delivered a special report on textbook development and reform.

Following the thematic report, there was a Q&A session. Several representatives raised their hands, and most of their questions concerned policy details or data from the report. The leaders answered each question individually.

The first day of the meeting concluded at 5:30 p.m. The delegates left in an orderly fashion.

The atmosphere became more relaxed at dinner. After a day of formal meetings, everyone was a bit tired, but they were gradually getting used to the pace. Several new faces joined Shu Ran's table, exchanging their thoughts on the day's meeting content.

"Minister Sun's report mentioned strengthening support for education in remote and impoverished areas, which is a positive sign," said an official from a northwestern province.

"The key is how the policies are implemented," another representative said. "Our area is also an old, remote, and poor region. Every time we say we will support them, the resources are still not enough when they reach the grassroots level."

“So we need to prioritize and follow a sequence,” Lin Jing interjected. “In our mountainous southwest region, the biggest shortage is teachers. Training one local teacher is more effective than sending ten teachers from other places.”

The conversation naturally turned to teacher training. Shu Ran shared her practices in the border regions, which everyone found very interesting, and they asked many specific questions. Shu Ran answered them one by one.

After dinner, Shu Ran and Lin Jing took a walk as usual. The guesthouse courtyard was quiet in the night, with only a few representatives still moving around.

"Xiao Shu, how did you feel about the meeting today?" Lin Jing asked.

"There's a lot of information," Shu Ran said. "You can sense that the country understands the situation at the grassroots level and wants to solve the problems. But how exactly to do it may require a more detailed plan."

“Yes, those above have their difficulties, and those below have theirs,” Lin Jing sighed. “Sometimes it’s not that we don’t want to do it, it’s that we simply have no other choice.”

The two walked to the roadside and sat down on a stone bench.

"So your model provides both honor and tangible benefits, and that's the right approach," Lin Jing continued. "People always need something to strive for. Just talking about dedication might work for a while, but it won't last."

Shu Ran nodded. She thought of Chen Yuanjiang and his words, "Once the roots are deep, no one can easily shake them." In fact, it's the same with anything; for something to last, everyone involved must gain value from it, whether spiritual or material.

"Oh, right," Lin Jing suddenly remembered something, "Tomorrow is the group discussion. Your group, number three, will be in the small conference room on the second floor. The group leader is a deputy director, and the deputy group leader is Director Liao Cheng. Be prepared, this group discussion might be quite intense."

"Thank you for reminding me, Sister Lin."

"You know Team Leader Liao, right?" Lin Jing looked at her. "I think he glanced in your direction a few times when the meeting ended today."

Shu Ran's heart stirred slightly, but her expression remained unchanged: "I met you during an inspection tour of the border region, and we've had some work-related exchanges."

"Oh." Lin Jing didn't ask any more questions, stood up, and said, "Let's go back and get some rest. You'll be speaking in the group discussion tomorrow, right?"

"Yes, we need to introduce our exploration."

"Speak properly. I'm listening."

Back in her room, Shu Ran washed up and leaned against the bed, reviewing the materials for tomorrow's group discussion. The topic for the third group was indeed focused on difficulty, with several sub-topics listed below, each accompanied by guiding questions.

She compared her key points with these topics one by one, thinking about how to better approach them. After a while, her eyes became a little sore. She put down the materials, turned off the light, and lay down.

In the darkness, she could hear Lin Jing's even breathing. She recalled feeling a gaze upon her at the conference hall earlier that day. She had been taking notes and hadn't looked up, but the feeling of being watched was clear. Was it Liao Cheng? Perhaps.

She thought of Chen Yuanjiang again. He had been in Beijing for several months. What was he doing? If he knew she was here, would he come looking for her? How would he? She was staying at a conference guesthouse, which was strictly managed, and outsiders were not allowed to come and go as they pleased.

Her thoughts were a bit jumbled. She turned over, forcing herself to stop thinking. There was an important discussion tomorrow, and she needed to concentrate.

The next morning, the process was the same as usual. After breakfast, the delegates went to different meeting rooms according to their groups. Shu Ran and Xiao Zhao went to the small meeting room on the second floor.

The meeting room wasn't large, with an oval table that could seat more than twenty people. A dozen or so representatives had already arrived. Shu Ran glanced at the name tags; some were from several northwestern provinces, some from mountainous areas in the southwest, and some from impoverished counties in central China. Everyone nodded to each other in greeting.

Liao Cheng was already seated next to the host's seat. When Shu Ran entered, he met her gaze and nodded slightly as a greeting. There was no other expression on his face.

Xiao Zhao whispered in Shu Ran's ear, "That's Team Leader Liao."

"Hmm." Shu Ran sat down in her seat. Her seat was in the middle of the long table, opposite a male representative from a certain autonomous region in Northwest China.

At 9:00 AM sharp, almost everyone had arrived. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Director Zhang, a man in his fifties who wore glasses and spoke slowly and deliberately. He first introduced the group's topics and discussion arrangements, and then asked everyone to introduce themselves in turn.

After the introductions, Shu Ran had basically memorized everyone present. There were provincial officials, county education bureau chiefs, principals from local schools, and frontline teachers like herself. They came from different regions, but they had one thing in common: their hometowns were all relatively economically and culturally underdeveloped, and their education work faced unique challenges.

After introductions, Deputy Director Zhang said, "Our group's discussions should be pragmatic. Everyone should present the most prominent problems, the most effective practices, and the most urgent suggestions from their respective regions. Let's avoid empty talk and focus on the actual situation. Team Leader Liao, what do you think?"

Liao Cheng nodded: "I agree with Director Zhang's opinion. The purpose of our group discussions is to hear the most authentic voices. Everyone, please speak freely."

The discussion began with the first sub-topic. A section chief from a northwestern province spoke first, introducing their province's approach. He was very specific, but Shu Ran sensed that they mainly relied on administrative promotion, which had strong mobilization power, but its sustainability was questionable.

Several representatives then spoke, each with their own emphasis. Some stressed the political nature of literacy campaigns, closely integrating them with ideological education; others emphasized practicality, starting with teaching the words and phrases most urgently needed by the masses; still others proposed implementing differentiated policies based on different categories.

Shu Ran listened quietly, occasionally taking notes. She could sense that although everyone shared the same goal, their underlying philosophies and working logic differed.

It was her turn.

“I come from the grassroots level of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps in the border region,” Shu Ran began. “We mainly carry out literacy and basic education work in agricultural and pastoral companies and surrounding pastoral areas. Our approach can be summarized as ‘survival education first, cultural education following, and ideal education as the guide.’”

She began to explain the specific procedures in great detail, using many concrete examples. The representatives listened attentively. Some nodded frequently, while others took quick notes.

After she finished speaking, the meeting room was silent for a few seconds. Then Deputy Director Zhang said, "You spoke very well, very practically. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask."

An education bureau director from a mountainous area in central China raised his hand: "Comrade Shu Ran, you mentioned incentives for teachers. What are the specific incentives? Where does the funding come from?"

Shu Ran replied, "Mainly, the company or commune squeezed out a portion from the collective funds, and there were also honor incentives. Funds were indeed tight, so we emphasized using local materials, and the teaching materials were as simple and practical as possible to reduce expenses."

"Can this last?" another representative asked. "Relying on grassroots units to squeeze it out themselves is probably unstable."

"This is indeed a problem," Shu Ran said frankly. "So we are also exploring whether we can form a systematic support system."

Liao Cheng then spoke up: "Comrade Shu Ran, you just mentioned prioritizing survival education, which is a very relevant point. But in practice, won't some people criticize you for neglecting the political and ideological aspects of education?"

This is a very pointed question. Xiao Zhao looked at Shu Ran with some nervousness.

Shu Ran remained calm: "Team Leader Liao, we believe that survival education itself is political. In the border regions, once the masses become literate, they can understand policy documents, comprehend national policies, and better participate in collective production and construction. This is the most practical form of political education. Conversely, if the masses don't even know how to read, they won't understand or accept our empty talk about politics and ideals. Therefore, we have found a balance between political relevance and public acceptance."

She glanced at the reactions around her and continued, "Moreover, we organically integrate patriotism, collectivism, and national unity into our teaching content. These are not done in isolation, but rather permeated into the teaching of practical skills."

Liao Cheng looked at her, nodded, and didn't ask any further questions.

The discussion continued. Other representatives also raised their own questions, which Shu Ran answered one by one. She could sense that many people present agreed with her approach, because they all faced similar dilemmas—scarce resources, weak public support, and a need to find a practical and feasible breakthrough.

The morning discussion ended at noon. As the meeting adjourned, several representatives gathered around Shu Ran, asking for her contact information so they could consult her in the future. Shu Ran responded politely.

Liao Cheng was organizing materials and didn't leave immediately. After everyone had almost left, he came over and said, "Comrade Shu Ran, how about we have lunch together? I have something I'd like to discuss with you."

Xiao Zhao immediately said, "Then I'll go to the cafeteria..."

"Let's have Officer Zhao join us too," Liao Cheng said. "It's just for work exchange."

The three of them walked towards the cafeteria together. Liao Cheng didn't say anything along the way, Xiao Zhao was a little nervous, while Shu Ran was very calm and composed.

When they arrived at the dining place, it was a small state-run restaurant. After the food was served, they found a relatively quiet corner to sit down. Liao Cheng then spoke: "Your speech this morning was very good, and your answers were also very insightful. Minister Sun listened to your report and was very impressed with you."

"Thank you for your recognition, leader," Shu Ran said.

“However,” Liao Cheng changed the subject, “you should be mentally prepared for your speech at tomorrow’s plenary session.”

“I understand,” Shu Ran said. “I will answer based on the facts.”

"Furthermore," Liao Cheng looked at her, "the ministry is studying the points you mentioned earlier that require policy support. Pilot policies may be released soon. You should be prepared to consider whether your department can undertake the pilot tasks if the policies are released."

This was an important signal. Shu Ran immediately realized that this was an opportunity.

“If the policy support is in place, we have the conditions and the willingness to undertake the pilot program,” Shu Ran replied cautiously, “but a specific support plan is needed.”

Liao Cheng nodded: "Very thoughtful. Here's what you'll do: compile a brief written statement outlining the specific needs you just mentioned, and give it to me after your speech tomorrow. It doesn't need to be too long, just highlight the key points."

"good."

"Besides," Liao Cheng put down his chopsticks, his tone becoming more casual, "you've arrived in the capital, but haven't gone out to see anything yet, have you?"

"No, I've been staying at the guesthouse."

“If you have time after the meeting, you can go out and have a look around. There are some places here that are worth seeing,” Liao Cheng said. “If you’d like, I can show you around.”

These words sounded like concern, but Shu Ran sensed something else. She smiled and said, "Thank you, Team Leader Liao. However, my schedule is very full, so I probably won't have time. Let's talk about it another time."

Liao Cheng glanced at her and didn't insist any further.

After the meal, Liao Chengxian left. Watching his retreating figure, Xiao Zhao whispered to Shu Ran, "Comrade Shu Ran, Team Leader Liao cares about you a lot."

"It's just concern for work," Shu Ran said casually. "Let's go back and rest. We have a discussion this afternoon."

The afternoon discussion focused on teacher and teaching material issues. Shu Ran continued to share experiences from border regions and also listened to practices from other areas. She found that although the situations varied from place to place, the core problems were similar—a lack of personnel, funding, and suitable teaching resources.

During the discussion, a professor from a teachers' college raised a different opinion. He believed that basic education must adhere to systematic and standardized practices, and standards should not be lowered simply because of difficult conditions.

"If we are teaching the public fragmented content now, how will we connect them to higher education in the future? How will we cultivate well-rounded individuals?"

This statement sparked debate. Some representatives agreed, arguing that education should have a long-term perspective; others disagreed, believing that discussing systematic norms in a place where survival is a struggle is unrealistic.

Shu Ran didn't speak immediately. She waited until the debate subsided before saying, "I understand the professor's point of view. The systematic and standardized nature of education is indeed important. But I'd like to share the actual situation where we live."

She cited the example of Qiming Primary School. "Therefore," Shu Ran said, "we believe that in areas with weak foundations, the path of education may need to be phased. The first phase addresses the issues of 'whether it exists' and 'whether it is used,' attracting students to enroll through practical content and laying a cultural foundation. The second phase, after a certain foundation has been established, gradually introduces a more systematic knowledge system, transitioning to standardized education. These two phases are not separate but progressive. Without the first phase, many people would never even step into a classroom; without subsequent systematic follow-up, education would remain at a low level of repetition."

She thought about what she wanted to add, "Of course, this places higher demands on teachers—they need to understand practical teaching methods as well as have a systematic perspective. This is why we emphasize the need for continuous training for teachers."

After listening, the professor pondered for a moment and nodded: "Your phased approach makes sense. We really can't take a one-size-fits-all approach."

The discussion continued, and the atmosphere became even more lively. Deputy Director Zhang and Liao Cheng occasionally interjected to guide the discussion and ensure it did not stray off course.

The discussion concluded at 5 PM. Deputy Director Zhang gave a brief summary, affirming everyone's remarks and stating that he would pass on the opinions and suggestions.

After the meeting, Shu Ran felt somewhat exhausted. The intense thinking, expressing herself, and responding had taken a toll. She and Xiao Zhao slowly walked back.

"Comrade Shu Ran, you spoke so well today," Xiao Zhao couldn't help but say. "I've written it all down, and I'll report it to the department in detail when I get back."

"Everyone spoke very well and without reservation. This exchange was very fruitful," said Shu Ran.

Back in the room, Lin Jing was already there. She had been in another group discussion that day, and the first thing she asked was, "How was it? Was your group's discussion intense?"

"Fortunately, there were different viewpoints, but we were able to communicate rationally." Shu Ran briefly explained the situation.

"That's good," Lin Jing said. "Our group is about the same. But I heard that there are three other representatives speaking at the conference tomorrow, besides you. One of them is from a city in East China, and he's said to have a very high level of theoretical knowledge and might put forward some cutting-edge viewpoints. You should be prepared."

"Thank you for reminding me, Sister Lin."

After dinner, Shu Ran didn't go for a walk. She returned to her room and began organizing the materials Liao Chengyao needed.

By the time she finished all that, it was already past nine o'clock. After washing up, she leaned against the headboard and went over her thoughts on her speech for tomorrow once more.

Lin Jing was already asleep. Shu Ran turned off the bedside lamp and lay down.

After tomorrow, the meeting will be halfway through. She'll have completed most of her task. And then? Then it's just a matter of waiting for the meeting results and preparing to return home.

Chen Yuanjiang's thoughts drifted back to her. If he wanted to see her, he would try to find a way in the next couple of days. If she was leaving as soon as the meeting ended, the chances of them meeting would be slim.

She didn't know whether she was looking forward to it or resisting it. She looked forward to seeing him, yet resisted the emotional turmoil that might evoke. What she needed right now was peace.

"Stop thinking about it," she told herself. What's meant to come will come, and what's not meant to come is useless to think about.

She closed her eyes and forced herself to sleep.

She didn't know how much time had passed, but in a half-dreaming, half-awake state, she seemed to hear a knock on the door.

She woke up immediately. She checked the time: eleven o'clock at night. Who was knocking so late?

Lin Jing also woke up and asked vaguely, "Who is it?"

The knocking continued twice, not loudly, but persistently.

Shu Ran got up, put on her coat, walked to the door, and lowered her voice: "Who is it?"

There was a moment of silence outside the door, then a familiar voice:

"It's me."

Shu Ran's hand stopped on the doorknob, and her heart skipped a beat.

She recognized his voice. It was Chen Yuanjiang.