"I thought Miss Chen was very capable, daring to compete and possibly win. But who would've thought, she doesn't last. Just a while ago, I was thinking maybe Miss Chen would seize this opportunity to make a name for herself."
A mocking voice echoed throughout the room. It was loud enough for everyone in the hall to hear clearly.
"Right, if you don't have the ability, why puff yourself up? Fame and reputation aren't easy to achieve. If you can't acquire it, you risk losing your dignity instead. That's not a good deal."
"Well, some people are keen to take a gamble, for bravery's sake. If it were me, I wouldn't dare risk losing face."
A few young ladies from the boudoir emerged from behind the beaded curtain, their laughter was particularly mocking. They giggled and strolled directly towards the second-floor private rooms. The poetry gathering was over, so there was no point in lingering in the hall.
The entire hall gradually emptied out.