The remaining three judges took their seats, each a renowned scholar or beauty in Lin'an City.
A ceremonial master in blue robes ascended the stage, announcing in a clear voice: "Tonight's competition for Premier Courtesan will be decided in three rounds!"
His voice grew stronger, instantly capturing everyone's attention:
"First round: Dance! Skill in dance shall determine rank!"
"Second round: Tea! Mastery of tea ceremony shall separate the best!"
"Third round: Zither! Musical refinement shall judge sophistication!"
The master's voice turned stern: "For fairness, all contestants must wear veils, showing only their eyes! Judges shall decide based on skill alone, not appearance!"
The first drum beat sounded, and even the wind fell silent.
The first contestant appeared in red, each step falling as if on invisible zither strings. Her thin veil made her eyes even more mesmerizing. Below the stage, candlelight flickered, making it impossible to tell whether it was she who danced or the light and shadows that moved.
The drumbeat suddenly rose, sharp as a knife, splitting the night's silence. The urgent rhythm resembled thousands of horses galloping, like heavy rain striking banana leaves. The beauty's flowing sleeves danced like dragons, her movements gentle as willows in the wind, yet concealing sharp edges within their grace.
As the dance ended, the hall erupted in applause.
Cheng Xuan bowed slightly and commented: "Her dance is elegant, her movements graceful and proper. Though not flashy, it carries classical charm."
But Jiang Yuchuan, playing with his prayer beads, remarked casually: "Classical charm it has, but... it lacks spirit. Pure elegance alone, like reciting from memory, missing true feeling."
The gong sounded again, and the second contestant took the stage. Her red dress blazed like fire, her skirts swirling like a brilliant lotus blooming on the high platform. Her eyes shone like cold stars, more piercing behind the light veil, commanding silence from the entire audience.