Chapter - 54 - Photographic Memory

Tang Li couldn't hide her joy when she saw the book Dr. Zhang brought out. It was "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine," a must-read for anyone interested in Chinese medicine.

In her previous life, Tang Li had bought different editions of this book, including the original ancient Chinese version and translated versions in simple chinese language.

She had read them all and could practically recite the contents.

So, when she claimed she could memorize more than half a page in just 10 minutes when the book was placed in front of her, she felt like it was too easy and almost like she was teasing Dr. Zhang.

With a serious expression, Tang Li opened the book, and it happened to be a page about acupuncture and moxibustion. She had never seen this version before, and it was a half-vernacular translation. 

Although it was a translation in simple language, the core content remained the same. Tang Li read it twice from start to finish and memorized every word in just 5 minutes.

Tang Li raised her head, glanced at Dr. Zhang, with a hesitant expression on her face, contemplating whether to recite it now or not.

Seeing her hesitation, Dr. Zhang thought she might be giving up because she couldn't live up to her claim.

He smiled and said, "Is it because you couldn't memorize all the words? Remember, not everyone can learn medicine without a solid foundation."

Tang Li, unaware of Dr. Zhang's subtle skepticism, asked, "So, if I can memorize it, will Dr. Zhang agree to teach me?"

Dr. Zhang didn't expect her to be so persistent, especially after she had accidently saved someone. With a smile, he agreed.

There was no contempt in his tone, but a sincere counsel to let her do what she can. After all, there are few village women who can read. 

Dr. Zhang, realizing she was determined, made her a sincere offer. "If you can memorize even a short paragraph, I will not only teach you, but I will also recommend you to the team for medical training in the county. You won't have to work so hard in the fields anymore; you can have a stable job."

Tang Li handed him the book and confidently began reciting the page. Her clear pronunciation and smooth recitation left Dr. Zhang and Yi Minghuan astonished.

They realized she was serious and capable.

Yi Minghuan hadn't read the book, but just looking at Dr. Zhang's expression he knew that she had really memorized it.

Besides seeing Tang Li's accomplishments the looks in their eyes also showed that they were curious and had questions about her.

Dr. Zhang, still shocked, asked, "How did you memorize it?! Are you naturally gifted with an exceptional memory?"

Tang Li coughed lightly, feeling she had pushed it too far, and tried to correct her bluff. "Well, Uncle Zhang, I've read this book before and memorized it."

She lowered her head, pretending to be embarrassed, and confessed, "I'm sorry, I was just pretending to impress you."

Dr. Zhang was relieved to hear her explanation. He couldn't believe someone could memorize a page in a matter of minutes; it seemed too incredible.

However, this raised more questions for him. "You've memorized it before? How did you manage to do that? Where did you get this book?"

Tang Li felt exhausted from all the lies she had spun to cover up the truth. She made up various stories but eventually got Dr. Zhang to stop asking too many questions.

With a smile, he said, "Great! You have the foundation! After a year of learning, you'll be able to help the villagers with minor illnesses and pains."

Tang Li thanked Dr. Zhang with a bow and a grateful smile for agreeing to teach her.

"Uncle Zhang, thank you so much!".....