Xi Yan

When Ye Chong and Master Karu arrived at the contest venue, the contestants had already waited close to an hour. No one showed any signs of impatience, however, for they observed a clear delineation of status between them.

Master Karu sighed in relief and said to Ye Chong, "These are the works that made it to the finals. Have a look at them, and rank them as you see fit."

There were five people standing in front of Ye Chong. The youngest was just a teenager, who had an air of youthful stubbornness. The oldest sported a long white beard and sharp eyes. There was a woman among the five. The five of them greeted Ye Chong and Karu respectfully. Standing around them were six other people who also bowed respectfully. They were members the judging panel, and some of Eastern Cloud's best weaponsmiths. Two of them held government positions. These two showed particular admiration for Ye Chong.