As night fell, in the kitchen, Mother Zhang led her daughters-in-law to prepare the banquet early. The mediators they invited were about to arrive, and after the household was divided, they had to treat them to drinks. In the meantime, they were all eavesdropping, so it was necessary to prepare in advance.
In the main room of the Zhang Family house, two oil lamps were lit, and the table was set with pen, ink, paper, inkstone, yellowed account books, and an abacus. Once the Zhang Family Village's clan leader, clan elders, Old Captain, and Uncle Zhang sat down, Mr. Zhang called over his three daughters-in-law to join as listeners.
The Zhang Family, including the children, gathered together, all quietly sitting and waiting for Mr. Zhang to speak.
