On the raised platform at the literary gathering!
The Azure Martial Emperor, dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, and the empress, in her gorgeous phoenix robe, sat upon it. Gu Shihan, Gu Yangou, and the other princes and princesses were the first to bow to them!
Following close behind were the civil and military officials of the Azure Martial Empire, as well as representatives of the other factions attending the gathering!
"Your children pay their respects to Father and Mother!"
"We pay our respects to Your Majesty and Your Highness!"
"Our respects to the Azure Martial Emperor and Azure Martial Empress!"
The Azure Martial Emperor raised a hand slightly. With his peak Divine Lord cultivation supporting him, every clearly spoken word carried to every corner of the gathering!
"Everyone, rise. At today's literary gathering, I hope you will all display your talents. Do not hide your light; make friends through literature!"
Everyone rose after thanking him in unison.
Just then, a talented young man from the Mystic Sword Sect stepped forward first and saluted the emperor on the platform with cupped hands!
"Your Majesty, I would like to combine swordsmanship with literary skill and offer a poem-a humble brick to draw forth jade!"
With that, he drew his sword before the countless watching eyes. His movements were light as a wild goose, swift as a swallow, graceful and ethereal. Sharp sword shadows danced around him, drawing endless cries of praise!
"Sword shadows crisscross, cleaving the boundless sky; literary inspiration surges, setting the stars alight."
The moment he recited his poem, enthusiastic applause erupted throughout the gathering.
The Azure Martial Emperor nodded slightly, appreciation in his eyes.
While everyone was still absorbed in the splendid performance and verse, Gu Shihan, who had been standing quietly to one side, suddenly stepped