When Xun Yi arrived with the others, they immediately drew everyone's attention.
The literati moved aside one after another, clearing a path.
The sight of this group arriving threw Sun Yan and his companions into a panic.
Xun Yi had always stood on Kong Chao's side, and behind him were more than a dozen renowned men of profound learning. Following behind Xun Yi as they were, their position could not have been clearer.
Sun Yan frowned. Did Xun Yi wield that much influence?
Enough to bring so many people here?
Leaving the others aside, Cai Mu alone would give them plenty to swallow. Quite apart from his learning, the old man's seniority and standing were truly lofty. Even the heads of several great clans had to kneel and bow when they saw him.
Besides, there were famous scholars skilled in debate among this group from Yanzhou.
But why had they come?
It made no sense!!!
Xun Yi walked straight to the raised platform and bowed in greeting to Kong Chao.
Kong Chao hurriedly returned their greetings.
Xun Yi introduced the men behind him to Kong Chao, who could not help saying, "I did not know so many talented worthies would be coming today and failed to prepare a proper welcome. Please forgive me."
Several of them laughed.
Cai Mu said solemnly, "We came uninvited. Hearing how lively things have been at the Imperial Academy lately, we came especially to watch."
"Duke Kong, when Lord Wang was still alive, I exchanged letters with him frequently. Even then, I greatly admired his talents and learning, and often spoke to those around me of the subtleties of his scholarship!"
As Cai Mu spoke of these things, his eyes reddened.
He wiped away his tears and continued, "When Lord Wang went to Yanzhou to