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As fate would have it, with the article in Master Zhou’s hands, they stood too far to discern the words clearly. The thought of approaching closer seemed impolite, coupled with their apprehension towards Master Zhou…
The group could only tiptoe and crane their necks to catch a glimpse.
“Can this gentleman allow other students to peruse and admire Master Song Jingyun’s article?” Master Zhou inquired.
“Please go ahead, Master,” Song Jingyun replied with a smile.
Observing Song Jingyun’s modest and respectful demeanor, Master Zhou’s impression of him improved. He then showed the article to the other students nearby.
Eagerly anticipating this moment, the students eagerly approached to have a look.
The article focused on taxation, leaning towards contemporary policy matters. It was well-reasoned, smoothly written, with precise wording and sentences. Compared to the flowery yet hollow articles usually encountered, this one was like night and day, with substance and clarity.
“Truly, an exceptional piece of writing!”
“Remarkable literary talent, a true masterpiece.”
“Absolutely admirable!”
The continuous astonishment and praise filled the air, leaving the other four candidates, who were still working on their own tasks, exchanging uncertain glances, unsure whether to continue or not.
Apart from feeling the pressure and uncertainty about what to write at this moment, even if they managed to produce something, they feared that in comparison to Song Jingyun’s brilliance, their own work might pale in comparison.
However, considering that everyone has their own strengths and limitations, it is normal not to be as exceptional as others. They couldn’t let this deter them from completing their poetry or articles and gaining entry into Splendorous Garden.
After a brief moment of contemplation, they all lowered their heads, picked up their pens, and continued writing. Except for one candidate, Pang Hezhi, who, with a smirk, remarked, “It’s just luck. Drawing a blank and then setting your own topic for the article. Can we really expect quality? I suspect it’s probably an article they had prepared beforehand, now just showing off.”
It’s hard to say for sure whether this article has been revised and polished.
Otherwise, could one truly produce such a splendid piece in such a short time?
At least, he didn’t believe it.
Upon hearing Pang Hezhi’s remarks, the others were stunned, exchanging glances with each other.
During literary competitions, using pre-prepared works to show off was highly frowned upon. If discovered, it would lead to disgrace and a tarnished reputation.
However, due to such taboos, people were equally repelled by those who spread baseless rumors.
In this instance, without evidence, Pang Hezhi’s unfounded accusations were more distasteful than using prepared work. Though unspoken, the group silently communicated through their eyes before bowing their heads to continue their own responses.
Without a word, subtly shifting away to create some distance from Pang Hezhi, who naturally noticed the disdain and avoidance from the others. His face paled slightly, emitting a soft grunt before hastening his writing.
Soon, he would make a remarkable display, proving his worth to those who lacked discernment!
In the time it took for an incense stick to burn, the examination at Splendorous Garden concluded. The attendants gathered the candidates’ written responses and presented them to Master Zhou.
Master Zhou, after reviewing the papers with a few others, returned the articles and poems, instructing the attendants to lead the candidates to their accommodations.
When it came to Pang Hezhi, Master Zhou furrowed his brow slightly. “Kindly seek alternative lodgings, please.”