The other mill's owner was a crook, and Pei Qin had already left; even if she found her way back and taught him everything, she would only earn a few measly copper coins.
Pei Qin, with a darkened face, looked at the closed mill. Inside, there were no oxen or donkeys, no flour or cornmeal, but the millstones and hoppers and all were there. She asked the old woman, "Why isn't this mill operating?"
The old woman sighed and shook her head. "All business was taken away, and there's an outstanding debt in silver. Can't keep it running!"
Pei Qin couldn't help but want to curse, but she asked again, "Is the mill owner around? I'm not here to buy flour. I need to discuss some business with him!"
The old woman scrutinized Pei Qin, a bit guarded in her gaze. "You...you're not here to demand money, are you?"
