Chapter 132: Not as Good as Expected

As Song Jingyun finished the last word, the room fell into an intense silence, where one could hear a pin drop.

“One word… not missed?” someone whispered in awe.

Others murmured in amazement.

But curiosity prevailed.

“Weren’t they saying he hadn’t read much before? How can he recite so fluently?”

“Is it really his first day at the academy? I find it hard to believe.”

“I don’t believe it either…”

Amidst the discussions, Song Jingyun felt a bit embarrassed and softly replied, “It truly is my first time attending school seriously, and this article is the first time I’ve read it.”

“How were you able to recite it so perfectly then?” A student named Lu Yuming, around fourteen or fifteen years old and of shorter stature, closest to Song Jingyun, asked in astonishment.

“I just read it once and learned it…” Song Jingyun’s voice grew even softer.

The group was astonished once again.

Could this be the famed photographic memory? Dear Heavens, can such a thing truly exist in reality?

No wonder Master Meng had advised them to seek guidance from Song Jingyun. Despite his lack of prior education or experience at the academy, possessing such a remarkable ability meant that given time, his knowledge would surpass theirs, far beyond their reach.

Moving forward, it was clear that seeking guidance from Song Jingyun was truly essential.

The students silently resolved to do so in their hearts.

Meanwhile, Song Jingyun scratched his head, observing the various expressions of the students.

Is learning quickly this attention-grabbing?

Master Meng, on the other hand, proudly lifted his chin.

After class, Zhang Wenbin smirked, “Was it intentional to have Song Jingyun recite during class? Showing off again?”

“What do you mean by showing off?” Master Meng retorted. “They would have found out sooner or later. It’s better they know earlier to avoid questioning life choices later on. Besides, wouldn’t you want to see their jaws drop too?”

Since they were all his students, it was only natural for them to progress together with their teacher.

Truly a conundrum!

Zhang Wenbin shook his head in resignation.

However, on the flip side, if only Song Jingyun had studied under him, things might have been different…

Perhaps things won’t turn out so well after all.

Having witnessed Song Jingyun’s talent, the entire school held him in high esteem and admiration. After class, students would gather around him, eager to exchange a few words. While they might not possess his photographic memory, they hoped that by interacting with someone with such a gift, they too could improve.

Thus, on his first day at school, Song Jingyun became the center of attention at the Hongle Academy.

Observing this, Jiang Chunbao was nearly beside himself with anger.

He had spent two years at the academy, exerting much effort and thought, uttering countless flattering words, just to barely make a few friends and gain some recognition. Yet, Song Jingyun, a son-in-law, on his very first day at the academy, stole the limelight from everyone, quickly surpassing Jiang Chunbao’s position at the school—truly infuriating!

Especially when he saw Jiang Mixia waiting with the ox cart not far from the academy at the end of the school day, his frustration only grew.

How could Song Jingyun, a son-in-law, be so esteemed at the academy and hold such a high status at home? Wasn’t a son-in-law usually looked down upon? Why did this Song Jingyun…

Jiang Chunbao couldn’t understand. On his way back, he pondered this matter incessantly.

As Jiang Chunbao walked and pondered, he stumbled and fell due to his absent-mindedness, twisting his ankle on the uneven road. The pain shot through his ankle as he struggled to get up, noticing the swelling and slight bleeding.

Attempting to walk, the excruciating pain in his ankle made it unbearable. Jiang Chunbao’s heart sank as he realized the implications. His foot couldn’t afford any injuries; he had passed the county exam and only needed to pass the provincial exam next year to become a true scholar. If he passed the imperial exam in August, he would be a successful candidate. However, if his foot was injured, he wouldn’t be able to participate in the examinations.

—

Back at home, Song Jingyun enthusiastically shared his recent experiences at the academy with Jiang Mixia. From the kindness of Master Meng to the warmth of his classmates, from the class content to the enjoyable lunch…

Different topics, different discussions, from the moment Jiang Mixia listened to him athome until late at night.

Yawning sleepily, Jiang Mixia, looking at her Husband’s joyful face, felt a sense of contentment. It seemed like the academy was the right choice.

Feeling thirsty and considering getting a drink, Song Jingyun noticed Jiang Mixia had fallen asleep peacefully.

His wife was tired.

Tucking Jiang Mixia in, Song Jingyun lay down, but no matter how he tossed and turned, something felt off.

Realizing he was only covered by a blanket, Song Jingyun had a sudden realization. No wonder things felt off; his wife’s arm was not in its usual place.

Gently moving Jiang Mixia’s arm from under the blanket and placing it correctly, Song Jingyun adjusted the blankets to ensure she wouldn’t catch a chill because of the mishap.

Once everything was sorted, Song Jingyun closed his eyes and peacefully fell asleep.

His adjustment to studying at the academy on the first day made things smoother thereafter. He left home on time every day and returned promptly in the evening.

After returning home, Song Jingyun helped Jiang Mixia with various household and workshop tasks.

However, after a few days, Jiang Mixia couldn’t hold back any longer. “Others study diligently after school, enduring the cold of winter and the heat of summer, studying late into the night. Their oil lamps nearly blind them. Why is it that every time you return from the academy, you seem to have been strolling around the streets?”

Often, he didn’t even bring his books back home.

In essence, he seemed nothing like a diligent student.

When questioned by his wife, Song Jingyun scratched his head. “But, my dear, I have finished all the lessons at the academy, and I have completed the readings assigned by the teacher. There’s no need to continue studying at home after that.”

Jiang Mixia, “…”

She almost forgot, her husband  had an exceptional memory and learned quickly. While others needed to revise what they learned at the academy, his mind had already stored everything, saving him the extra effort.

Seems like I spoke too soon…

Observing this, Song Jingyun scratched the back of his head.

Was his wife implying he wasn’t diligent enough in his studies?

Perhaps he could spend an extra fifteen minutes reading each day upon his return…

This way, he could put his wife’s mind at ease without neglecting his duties, a win-win situation!