Chapter 393
The news that Zhan Feiyu accompanied Madam Qian to the Pang residence was not kept secret. Almost as soon as they entered the door, everyone else received the message.
"My lord, Miss Zhan is a disciple of Scholar Gu, yet she is involved with the merchant Qian family. Isn't she afraid of ruining her reputation?" Xiao Zimo muttered.
He was Lord Yao's personal attendant and had seen a lot over the years. Scholars cherished their reputation the most. Qian Shipeng had died disgracefully, and the third branch of the Qiu family had already met with misfortune. Any intelligent person would avoid further entanglement with the Qian family, lest they be tainted by association.
Putting down the official documents in his hand, Lord Yao picked up his teacup and took two sips before asking, "What are the rumors outside?"
"Commander Xie's side has sent people to spread the word that Miss Zhan is greedy for the Qian family's wealth. Coincidentally, Assistant Prefect Pang is in trouble, so she is using her influence to bully Madam Pang into resolving the matter peacefully." Xiao Zimo quickly relayed the news he had received, curling his lip in disdain. "Commander Xie is a high-ranking official of the third rank, yet he resorts to such low tactics against a young girl."
Glancing at the indignant Xiao Zimo, Lord Yao's usually stern face broke into a smile. "Commander Xie is a military officer. He only needs to know how to lead troops in battle. If he were too skilled in strategy and had too much hidden depth, it would make people uneasy."
For years, Commander Xie had been playing the role of a pig to eat the tiger, making people believe he was merely a fierce and rough military general, unlike civil officials who were adept at strategy. Therefore, even after the incident with Censor Chu, considering Commander Xie's conduct, the Emperor would at most issue a reprimand and not dismiss him from his post.
"Doesn't Miss Zhan consider her own reputation?" Xiao Zimo couldn't quite understand. Scholars held a noble status, yet she chose to associate with merchants, giving Commander Xie an opportunity to strike at her.
"The young girl has a talent for learning and also possesses a spirit of chivalry. This is the age of youthful vigor and high spirits." Lord Yao's expression held a touch of admiration when he mentioned Zhan Feiyu. It was normal for a young girl to be less thoughtful. If she were like the cunning and old officials in the court, then it would be something to be wary of.