Deafening cheers suddenly erupted outside, surging toward them like a tide.
Chen Cong turned toward the source of the sound and said gravely, "Looks like your grandpa has raised the curtain."
Chen Xiaojun pressed his lips together lightly, then answered with ringing conviction, "That's right! The Chen Clan has finally set sail in earnest."
The scene shifted to the aftermath of the battle. Smoke still lingered, and the battle's aftershocks trembled through the air.
Head referee Zhu Yanfeng stepped forward into the center of everyone's attention. His booming voice pierced the clamor. "The match between the Chen Clan's Northern Dipper Heavenly Dipper Formation and Spirit Hall's Holy Son, Qian Daoliu, ends in a draw!"
His words struck like thunder, instantly setting the crowd ablaze.
Next, a refined-looking middle-aged man in sumptuous robes walked slowly onto the platform. He was the Chen Clan's chief-Chen Yu.
His pace was neither hurried nor slow, each step utterly composed. Even an occasion like this could not disturb his inner calm.
His voice was gentle yet powerful, like a spring breeze brushing their faces, instantly soothing everyone's excitement. "Thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend and bear witness."
"Today's youth matches were not merely a friendly exchange between our Chen Clan and so many outstanding young talents. They were also a stage for the younger generation to show their abilities and pursue excellence."
At this point, Chen Yu raised a hand slightly and swept his gaze across the crowd. Every young person his eyes touched felt an inexplicable surge of encouragement.
He continued, his tone filled with hope for the future. "The Chen Clan has always upheld openness and inclusiveness, dedicating itself to nurturing more exceptional young talents."
"We believe that through continued effort and platforms such as