289, The Emergency Meeting of Local Officials

One night without words, the next day.

The aftermath of the Buddhist Taoist contest continued to spread in the Capital, and the citizens in every street and alley talked enthusiastically about "Yama Zhao's" exploits yesterday.

In literary circles, stories of the many poems recited at the "Zhangtai Banquet" last night were widely circulated.

Particularly commendable was the one left by the drunken Zhao Douan.

"That Zhao Douan has such a talent for poetry... Did he really write it, or was it ghostwritten?" someone enviously questioned.

"Haha, this poem clearly describes yesterday's experience. Who could have penned it? Besides, being inspired and occasionally having an epiphany is not rare...

Furthermore, in my view, this poem seems incomplete, the spirit unfinished, and has significant shortcomings, not considered a fine work." Someone critiqued.

Most, however, relished the line "The Emperor's favorite is my youth."

They were not savoring the poetry but the gossip.