Second Old Master Mei let out a heavy sigh. "Nothing is guaranteed. I had hoped that Liu Zhi could sway him, or at least earn us a favorable mention. It would have saved us a lot of trouble—sigh!"
The two brothers commiserated with each other, their minds burdened with concerns and uncertainties.
"It's just unfortunate that the gift didn't appeal to him. What more can be done?" lamented one.
Old Master Mei listened intently before offering his perspective. "Simply because he rejected Liu Zhi doesn't mean he's averse to others. Shao Yunduan is, first and foremost, a scholar—a formidable one at that. It's not uncommon for scholars to have reservations, particularly in matters of reputation and sensitivity. His rejection in public may be a reflection of such concerns."
