Chapter 35: The Second Medical Book
At this point, Sun Kang’s worry was completely alleviated.
Next, he called Zhao Zhitong over, regarded her with a serious and solemn expression, and said, "Young girl, Grandfather is very happy that you are willing to learn medicine from me. However, let me state the difficult parts first. Studying medicine is not child’s play; it’s not something you can master in a day. It’s a long-term process. Once you’ve committed, you must take it seriously. You must not complain or quit halfway. Can you do this?"
Zhao Zhitong nodded her little head, "Tongtong will not complain, and Tongtong will not give up either."
Sun Kang smiled approvingly, "Well said! You’re truly my, Sun Kang’s, granddaughter. Grandfather has high hopes for you."
Then, he took out a book from his robes and asked, "Young girl, are you learning characters with your Teacher?"
Zhao Zhitong nodded, proudly saying, "Mm-hmm, Tongtong now knows many, many characters."
Sun Kang nodded, "Good. Then take this book. This is an introductory medical text. You must memorize the entire book by heart."
Zhao Zhitong happily took the book, holding it like a cherished treasure, "Grandpa, is this for me?"
Sun Kang chuckled and reached for the tobacco pouch at his waist, "Yes, it’s for you, young girl."
Zhao Zhitong was overjoyed; this was her second book. "Wow, thank you, Grandpa! I will treasure it."
The book must have been quite old, as its pages were slightly yellowed. But judging from its cleanliness and neatness, it was evident that its owner had taken good care of it.