"Distinguished guests, dear friends,"
A clear female voice suddenly rang out, like a crystalline dewdrop falling onto a still lake and stirring ripples across its surface.
Everyone turned, following the voice to its source, and saw Liu Ruyan gracefully step onto the stage.
She wore an emerald-green gown with tassels, its hem swaying gently with her steps like spring willow leaves dancing in the breeze. Her voice flowed like a clear spring, washing over the hearts of everyone present.
"I'm Liu Ruyan, and I have the honor of serving as one of today's hosts." She smiled, her eyes sparkling with confidence and warmth.
"Today is Grandpa Cong's Golden Birthday. Our Chen Clan has carefully prepared a series of performances, and we hope you'll enjoy them to the fullest."
"First, please enjoy our opening number-Chen Youth's Words."
With that, she stepped lightly off the stage.
The moment she descended, a solemn, low chorus rose over the opening music:
When the young are wise, the clan is wise;
When the young are wealthy, the clan is wealthy;
When the young are strong, the clan is strong;
When the young are free, the clan is free;
The red sun rises, its path ablaze with light;
The river bursts from hidden currents, pouring into a boundless sea;
The hidden dragon soars from the abyss, scales and claws unfurled;
The tiger cub roars through the valley, and a hundred beasts tremble.
Moving to the rhythm, Chen Jianjun sprang swiftly into the air like a hidden dragon soaring skyward.
He gripped a white pole bearing a red flag embroidered with a striking blue Seven Kill Sword. Beneath the sword, the words "Yao Guang" gleamed.
He swiftly planted the white pole in a socket on the stage, then turned toward the audience and sang in a