The sunset's lingering glow stained the horizon red, like a heavy smear of blood, while the autumn breeze blew softly, carrying a hint of desolation, mistlike and elusive, with a touch of chill.
That distinct autumn atmosphere drew people into it before they knew it.
Ah, this was written a little late. That moment had actually passed, and the sun had already set.
Just then, Chen Mu leaped lightly onto the arena.
His movements were fluid and graceful, carrying an air of leisurely elegance.
With his head held high and chest lifted, he confidently recited in a clear, ringing voice: "One day the crouching dragon shall find rain; today, release the crane to soar into the heavens. Know that youth harbors ambitions to grasp the clouds, having once vowed to stand foremost in the world!"
Those four lines instantly set the atmosphere ablaze, stirring everyone's emotions.
"One day the crouching dragon shall find rain-is that a reference to the Crouching Dragon and Young Phoenix Heavenly Prodigy Ranking?"
"Having once vowed to stand foremost in the world?!"
"Does everyone in the Chen Clan set their sights this high?"
"That's Senior Chen Mu for you. What boldness!"
"Senior Chen Mu, you have to beat this Tang Xiao as easily as the Peerless Young Master did!"
The crowd grew increasingly excited, and it was obvious that quite a few people from Chang'an Academy had come.
Since Chen Cong was about to take up a position at Chang'an Academy, the Chen Clan had specifically sent many invitations to its members.
The local youths of Chang'an City also attended Chang'an Academy, so its students and teachers made up a substantial portion of the crowd.
Among those attending in person were the highly respected Chang'an Three Elders, lower-year dean Li Jinghua, Mu Zilian, and others.
They