After deep contemplation, the scholars welcomed an unexpected participant, a servant-like figure holding a peculiar pen. However, upon seeing the unconventional writing instrument, resembling more of a charcoal stick than a pen, they shook their heads in amusement.
Once the servant completed writing, all eyes focused on the paper. To everyone's surprise, the characters resembled the first line perfectly: "long long long long long"
A scholar inquired about the meaning of copying the first line. Lin Wanrong chuckled and replied with a cryptic remark about the scholar's possible lack of understanding.
Impatient scholars dismissed the servant, but Lin Wanrong, uninterested in their opinions, turned to the elderly painter, seeking his judgment.
The elderly man, seemingly delighted, revealed that the seven characters formed a coherent couplet. If someone could provide a matching second line, he would gift them the newly created painting titled "West Lake Misty Rain."
Surprised by the challenge, the scholars hesitated. Lin Wanrong, with a sly smile, stated that the characters indeed formed a couplet and proceeded to present his version.
This unexpected revelation left the scholars bewildered, realizing it was a homophonic couplet related to the Qiantang River tide. Lin Wanrong's clever approach left them in awe.
The young lady, deep in thought, conceded her lack of expertise and expressed her admiration for the artwork. Lin Wanrong, intrigued, proposed a plan to obtain the painting and split the profits with her.
Amused by Lin Wanrong's audacious suggestion, the young lady jokingly warned him about the consequences of his words.
The elderly painter, in good spirits, praised Lin Wanrong's wit. However, some scholars felt dissatisfied and challenged the elderly man for another test.
Though initially reluctant, the elderly man eventually agreed to pose a new challenge. Lin Wanrong, recognizing the painter's wisdom, respected the request.
As the elderly man proposed a new challenge, Lin Wanrong realized the value of the artwork and the painter's skill. The scholars eagerly anticipated the new test, and Lin Wanrong took a moment to formulate a homophonic couplet.
Lin Wanrong presented his couplet: "seawaterChao Chao Chao Chao Chao Chao Chaofall" ("Sea waves rise and fall every day"). The scholars struggled to decipher its meaning, while Lin Wanrong taunted them for their inability to respond.
With no one offering a solution, Lin Wanrong playfully declared his intention to claim the second painting. However, the elderly man, enthusiastic about the challenge, requested time for further contemplation.
The scholars, witnessing the camaraderie between Lin Wanrong and the elderly painter, marveled at their interaction. The young lady, concerned for Lin Wanrong, suggested ending the challenge, but he explained that it was a sign of respect.
Recognizing the elderly man's sincerity, Lin Wanrong asserted that he was genuinely impressed by the painter's talent. The young lady, realizing the dynamics, playfully teased Lin Wanrong.
As the elderly man eagerly declared success, he added a concluding line to the couplet: "floating cloudslong long long long longremove" ("Floating clouds continuously dissipate"). Lin Wanrong, surprised by the eloquent conclusion, praised the elderly painter's mastery.
The elderly painter, delighted, expressed his admiration for Lin Wanrong's ability to seamlessly incorporate the initial couplet into the new one. Lin Wanrong reciprocated the compliments, emphasizing mutual respect.
The elderly painter, contemplating the artistic process, acknowledged Lin Wanrong's honesty and admitted the potential benefits of merging art with commerce. Lin Wanrong, delighted by the positive response, saw an opportunity for fruitful collaboration.
Recognizing Lin Wanrong as a businessman, the elderly painter suggested the possibility of future encounters. Before leaving, he inscribed four small characters on the corner of the painting, signaling the beginning of a new chapter.