Blossom in Adversity

C189. A Battle of Wits.

Chapter 189 A Battle of Wits

The atmosphere within the Clan school was vibrant, making it Hua Zhi's favorite place to be beside her own courtyard. Watching the children eagerly awaiting knowledge, she felt that all her worries seemed inconsequential in comparison.

Her voice was clear and crisp, especially when she took charge. However, during lessons, she intentionally slowed down her pace, making her tone less sharp and imbued with a hint of softness. She didn't want to impose too much pressure on the children.

Outside the classroom at this moment, Zhu Haodong stood with a man in his thirties while Steward Xu stood by attentively.

The man had a faint appearance, not particularly outstanding in looks. Clad in worn-out clothes washed to a pale color, wearing black cloth shoes, with his hair carelessly tied atop his head, his face bore signs of weathering, yet his expression exuded a rare sense of freedom typically seen in intellectuals, even carrying a hint of nonchalance.

However, his gaze was intensely focused at the moment.

It was Zhu Haodong's first time listening to Hua Zhi teaching. If not for her youthful voice, her effortless command would have led one to believe she was an experienced educator. Even without considering the rest of the Hua family, just observing Hua Zhi, it was clear that there were capable individuals in the family's future.

Quietly impressed, Zhu Haodong turned to the man he had brought, acknowledging the scholarly fragrance about him. However, it was hard to imagine him as a classical scholar, given his overall demeanor.

Yet, his father had affirmed his talent, hoping he wouldn't hold the belief that a woman without talent lacks virtue, or he might find it difficult to fit in at the Hua family. For now, there was no hint of disdain in his demeanor.

During the break, Hua Zhi stepped out of the classroom and, upon seeing the man outside, halted momentarily before approaching to pay her respects.

Zhu Haodong introduced him with a smile, "This is the Mr. Zheng is known to your grandfather."

"I have met Mr. Zheng," Zhi greeted with a bow.

Mr. Zheng looked at her warmly, "Have you studied the Four Books and the Thirteen Classics?"

"I have some knowledge of them."

"What other books have you read?"

"I have read various miscellaneous books. The Hua family had a vast collection of books, so I could always find something to read."

"Have you read Ji Liang's new book?"

"I have, but I think his old book is better."

"Questioning the Eighteen Strategies?"

"I have read it. The Twelve Strategies are useless."

"The Detailed Classics?"

"I have read it. Despite its excessive theoretical discussions, it's quite good."

"The Discussions of the Four Virtuous Friends?"

"I have read it. I particularly like the discussions among the Four Virtuous Friends."

"Wild Records?"

"I have read it and admired the author who personally experienced and witnessed those sceneries."

"... "

Mu Qing emerged, and all the Hua family children stood by, watching their eldest sister engage in a battle of wits with the outsider. They felt a mixture of pride and self-doubt—while their eldest sister had read so many books, most of which they had never heard of!