0042 : Pivotal moment

Xue Yang, feeling a bit uneasy, took a deep breath and hoped that this gathering wouldn't turn out to be a trap.

As he entered the building, he was immediately greeted by an atmosphere of sophistication. The interior was elegantly decorated, with artworks adorning the walls and a subtle fragrance lingering in the air.

Xiao Zhu led Xue Yang through the crowd towards a spacious hall where the gathering was taking place. The hall was filled with people engaged in conversations, sipping on drinks, and admiring the various sculptures displayed.

"Xue Yang, stay calm. Sister Yang asked me to guide you through the process," Xiao Zhu whispered to him.

Xue Yang nodded, trying to maintain a composed demeanor, although he couldn't shake off a sense of unease.

As they approached the center of the hall, Xue Yang noticed a woman dressed in a luxurious gown, surrounded by a group of people. It was Yang Yali, the CEO of the Deep Sea Group. Her presence commanded attention, and the room seemed to hush as she moved.

When Yang Yali saw Xue Yang, a confident smile spread across her face. She gracefully excused herself from the group and approached them.

"Sister Yang, Xue Yang is here," Xiao Zhu announced.

Yang Yali gave Xue Yang a scrutinizing look before saying, "Xue Yang, I hope you're prepared. This gathering is crucial for us, and I believe you have the talent to contribute significantly."

Xue Yang maintained a calm expression, though his mind raced with uncertainty about what Yang Yali had in store for him.

"Let me introduce you to some influential figures in the sculpting industry," Yang Yali said, guiding Xue Yang towards a group of people.

As they mingled with the crowd, Xue Yang was introduced to several renowned sculptors, art critics, and industry professionals. He exchanged pleasantries, though he couldn't shake the feeling that there was an undercurrent of tension in the room.

Eventually, they reached a section of the hall where the prized Ethereal Jade was displayed. The stone emanated a mesmerizing aura, and its presence drew the attention of everyone nearby.

"Sculptors, today you have the opportunity to showcase your skills by carving this extraordinary piece of Ethereal Jade," Yang Yali announced, addressing the gathering.

Xue Yang observed the reactions of the sculptors around him. Some wore expressions of excitement, while others appeared more reserved, carefully studying the jade.

Yang Yali continued, "The one who impresses the panel of judges the most will earn the privilege to carve this masterpiece and, subsequently, the opportunity to join the Deep Sea Group on an exclusive project."

As Yang Yali spoke, Xue Yang could feel the weight of the situation intensifying. This was indeed a significant event, and the stakes were high.

The sculptors were then given time to examine the Ethereal Jade and contemplate their designs. Xue Yang took a step closer to get a better look at the stone. It was a magnificent piece, and the challenge of carving it excited him despite the uncertainty of the situation.

As the gathering continued, Xue Yang found himself engaged in discussions with fellow sculptors, sharing insights, and absorbing the artistic energy that permeated the room.

Eventually, the time came for the sculptors to present their proposed designs. Each artist showcased their unique vision for the Ethereal Jade, explaining their concepts to the panel of judges.

Xue Yang, though somewhat nervous, presented his design confidently. He spoke passionately about capturing the essence of nature and expressing the beauty within the stone.

The judges listened intently, evaluating each sculptor's proposal. Xue Yang couldn't decipher their expressions, adding to the suspense that hung in the air.

After all presentations were complete, the judges convened to deliberate. Xue Yang, along with the other sculptors, anxiously awaited the verdict.

Finally, Yang Yali stepped forward to announce the winner. The tension reached its peak as she declared, "The sculptor chosen to carve the Ethereal Jade is Xue Yang."

A mixture of surprise and applause echoed through the hall. Xue Yang's heart raced as he realized the magnitude of what had just transpired.

As he approached the Ethereal Jade, a surge of determination welled within him. This opportunity held the promise of unveiling his true potential as a sculptor.

Little did he know that this pivotal moment would set in motion a series of events that would shape his destiny in ways he couldn't foresee.