Chapter 8: Stupidity

Moreover, to be honest, he does not believe that this daughter would actually run away from home. Since the passing of Aunt Zhou, Zhang Qingting has had no proper relatives left; where could she possibly go on her own?

Madam Lin was momentarily taken aback, her mind not yet processing the situation, and she blurted out, "She eloped..."

Of course, there is also the instigator, Zhang Qingting. Madam Lin is certain that she will never forget the humiliation of today

Upon reflection, I felt a deeper sense of pity for Zhang Qingting, and I found myself somewhat disapproving of Lady Lin's sentiments.

After all, they had been married for many years, cherishing their old feelings. Mrs. Lin felt a deep sense of comfort in her heart and wanted to rise to greet him, but with a sudden thought, she fell back onto the pillow again

She was first taken aback, then filled with joy. As soon as Zhang Zhizhi entered the house, she received the news, but she heard that he had gone straight to Aunt Hu's as soon as he returned, which greatly angered Madam Lin. Ever since that little enchantress came in, he had spent nine out of ten nights in her room. Whatever that little enchantress desired, he granted without exception, and even she had to endure it to some extent

When Zhang Zhizhi entered, he put on a weary and fragile appearance, struggling to rise, "Master..."

Madam Lin is now completely at a loss; she knows best what her own child is like. Forcing that child to study is akin to skinning him alive

Ke Zhang went to her place today and then returned, but I heard that she is unwell

A group of maids and servants, unsure of what had transpired, exchanged glances with one another, hesitating and daring not to move

"This is family tradition! This is a clear and upright family tradition!" Zhang Zhizhi was practically furious, "But look at what you did today? Let me ask you, what exactly happened with the third girl today?"

However, today Zhang Zhizhi suddenly brought up this statement, does he think he has become confused? Has he started to distrust her? Such doubts are enough to destroy a woman's last shred of confidence

Hearing her deliberately avoid the main issue and impose vague punishments, Zhang Zhizhi curled his lips into a sneer, "He is still studying, and I feel embarrassed for him! At thirteen years old, he is neither cultured nor skilled, and all he knows is to play around! Not to mention, what was Tai Ning doing at his age? Madam, you have also raised children well before; why is it that when it comes to him, you act like a foolish woman who only indulges her child?"

Regarding Zhang Tai'an, Zhang Zhizhi is aware of the situation. The Lin family has spoiled him to the point of lawlessness, and it is likely that this young man is more inclined to cause trouble.

Zhang Zhizhi had finished dealing with matters and was about to leave when he suddenly remembered something. "Since the lady is unwell, it would not be appropriate for her to exert herself too much. How about this: let Wan Hua (Aunt Hu) take care of the Mid-Autumn Festival arrangements for you! After all, she is young and inexperienced, having just arrived. Whatever needs to be done, the lady can instruct her according to the rules."

Upon hearing these words, Mrs. Lin's expression truly changed. Having been married to Zhang Zhizhi for so many years, she had always been the sole decision-maker regarding the household matters, and how often had anyone ever come to share a portion of her authority?

Zhang Zhizhi angrily rebuked, "Madam, have you forgotten what is of utmost importance for us officials?"

Madam Lin, upon realizing this, immediately turned pale with fright, rolled off the bed, and knelt before Zhang Zhizhi, tears streaming down her face. "Master, it was my moment of confusion! It was Tai'an being mischievous, coming to me to complain about the Third Young Lady after quarreling in the back garden. I did not investigate thoroughly and believed Tai'an, which led to my misunderstanding of the Third Young Lady!"

Once everyone had left the room, Mrs. Lin cautiously asked, "Sir, what is the matter? Why did you return in such a foul mood? Who has offended you?"

However, he saw Zhang Zhizhi's face was as black as the bottom of a pot. Looking around, he shouted sternly, "Everyone get out! Close the door. Without my orders, no one is allowed to enter!"

Madam Lin, sensing the unfriendly tone, quickly said: "He must be heavily punished! Let him copy the books he has read several times, as a warning to others!"

Zhang Zhizhi listened and felt a bit more at ease at this point

Mrs. Lin's face turned crimson with embarrassment, and she lowered her head in shame

Even if it is true that she climbed the wall, and regardless of how she did it, what are all the servants and maids in the Zhang residence doing? Are the guards of the Zhang residence all deaf?

Therefore, although he is not particularly close to several of his children on a daily basis, he keeps each of them in his heart. Moreover, this dragonfly has just recently entered the family as a high-ranking relative, and it is absolutely unacceptable to allow her to cause any scandalous behavior in the household

What else can Mrs. Lin say besides nodding

Zhang Zhizhi personally addressed this matter, stating, "Although it is said to be a dispute between siblings, since the third young lady has brought the issue to your attention, she is also at fault. Since ancient times, women in the inner chambers should prioritize gentleness, obedience, and filial piety; how can they create disturbances and cause trouble? Here is what we will do: punish her by having her copy 'Nüze' and 'Nüxun' once each, which will serve as a reprimand. As for Tai'an?"

Zhang Qingting is the third young lady of the residence. Regardless of whether she truly climbed the wall to elope, how could this matter be handled in front of such a large audience

Her voice was indeed powerful, but to Zhang Zhizhi's ears, it was increasingly unpleasant. Thinking of Aunt Hu's words that she had no significant matters, he now saw her feigning a sickly appearance upon his entrance. Such deliberate behavior was truly distasteful

Madam Lin was sulking on the couch when she suddenly heard a commotion outside, "The master has arrived!"

He originally rose from a humble background, entering the officialdom through the imperial examination. Lacking support, he placed particular emphasis on his reputation. Over the years, he managed to ascend from a minor official to his current position as a third-rank official. Although the position is not particularly prestigious, he is considered a significant figure in the court. As long as he does not make mistakes, a stable retirement back to his hometown is just around the corner. At this point, he does not expect to make further advancements. He only hopes that his children can marry well and support each other in the future, ensuring that the glory of the Zhang family is carried forward.

It is truly astonishing that a young lady was able to take advantage of the situation in broad daylight and escape. If this were to spread, how could the Zhang family maintain their reputation in the capital?

What is it? Mrs. Lin startled him, and for a moment he couldn't quite recall.

It is not over yet. Zhang Zhizhi further stated: "His baseless accusation against his sister, although stemming from a child's nature, is still quite outrageous! Punish him with a month of house arrest, not even allowing him to step outside his own courtyard. He must reflect on his actions and cultivate his character properly while staying inside!"

Madam Lin also became flustered upon seeing the veins bulging on Zhang Zhizhi's forehead, and quickly sat up to command, "Foolish servant! Why aren't you quickly listening to the master's orders!"

"You shut up!" Zhang Zhizhi saw that she was still so obstinate, truly infuriating! "Madam, do you remember, she is my biological daughter. How could my daughter do something so disgraceful?"

Zhang Zhizhi spoke in a cold tone, "You will convey my message shortly. Tonight, have him copy the first one hundred characters of the 'Thousand Character Classic' and deliver it to my study first thing tomorrow morning, so I can see if he still remembers how to write. When I return from court, have his master come along as well; I will personally interrogate him about his studies. From now on, this will be the rule! As long as he can still get up, he must write one hundred large characters every day and be tested on one piece of work. When I return from court, have his master come along as well; I will personally interrogate him about his studies. From now on, this will be the rule! As long as he can still get up, he must write one hundred large characters every day and be tested on one piece of work. Even when I am not at home, let Tai Ning supervise his younger brother. When I have free time, I will still come to inquire about his progress. And do not think of covering for him or engaging in any favoritism!"

Zhang Zhizhi stormed into the main room, startling all the servants present

Although these words did not explicitly deny anything, they made Madam Lin feel alarmed and her voice became dry as she asked, "Sir, have I done something wrong?"

Especially for herself, people often ask how she manages the inner court. If someone with ulterior motives were to seize upon a weakness and report it to the censors, not to mention anything else, even the official position of Zhang Zhizhi could be at risk of being lost

The thought of Aunt Zhou momentarily softened Zhang Zhizhi's heart. Indeed, Zhang Qingting's marriage had somewhat wronged her; what was originally a good match was abruptly disrupted by Madam Lin. Although the final outcome was the same for the Zhang family, it was evident that Madam Lin's selfishness was at play.

Oh no! Mrs. Lin suddenly realized how foolish she had been today!

Zhang Zhizhi let out a cold hum, suppressing his anger, and spoke in as calm a tone as possible: "Madam, I have always regarded you as an understanding person, and I have entrusted all matters of the household to you. Over the years, I have served as an official in the court while you have managed the household affairs, and everything has been in good order, which I am quite satisfied with. We are a married couple, having known each other for many years. I often think that having such a virtuous wife like you in this life brings me great comfort, and I have never doubted your management of the household."

Madam Lin gritted her teeth in hatred! You little vixen, one day I will strip your bones and skin you alive