164 failing to preserve integrity in one's later years

Director Wang, upon hearing the principal's merciless critique that thoroughly invalidated his actions, was furious, yet he was in the wrong and had no argument to present.

The principal wouldn't even deign to give Director Wang another glance, merely dropping the sentence, "You've forgotten your roots. With such a divergence in our principles, there can be no collaboration. Be on your way! After a lifetime in education, guard against tarnishing your reputation at the end."

However angry or flustered Director Wang was, he had no recourse.

The principal's final words pierced his heart; he never expected that after years of trouble-free service, he would capsize in the gutter today. He feared no school would hire him now—was this not a stain on his late career?

Director Wang could no longer bear to stay, snorted coldly, and left with big, heavy steps, no longer carrying the prestige of a head instructor.