Chen Muye’s display of reciting only half a poem not only hooked Courtesan Liu, but it also captivated every scholar in the room. As soon as he claimed to have only composed half a poem, many of the scholars were practically jumping with impatience.
"How can such a magnificent poem be only half finished?"
"Indeed! My good sir, where is the second half?"
"Sir, the imagery in the lines you just recited is extraordinary. Could you please finish the rest?"
"Yes, sir, we are all waiting to hear the second half."
Everyone was chiming in, urging Chen Muye to continue. Chen Muye merely cupped his hands in a gesture of greeting, shook his head with a smile, and showed no intention of continuing the poem. His goal had been to capture the courtesan's attention, and now that he had achieved it, the second half could be composed later—not here, but in the courtesan’s bed. As for whether these people would ever hear it, that was none of his concern.
Chapter 242