Nathan Ye stepped down.
Sang Liu finished his drink and followed behind him.
This scene was observed by Clara Xiao from the upper floor, a hint of anticipation in her eyes.
"What kind of poetry will he compose?" her maid, Lila, chuckled softly and said. "Brother Ye may have talent, but his past achievements in poetry have been quite average. Competing with the top scholar might be a challenge."
Clara Xiao gave her a sidelong glance and replied, "Let's wait and see."
She indeed had a special interest in Nathan Ye, and that interest stemmed from Sirius Ji. It was the first time she'd heard Sirius Ji admire someone so highly—admire him enough to bear considerable risk and even confront the Immortal Sect.
It was almost unbelievable.
"Nathan Ye, don't let His Majesty down..." Clara Xiao's gaze burned with intensity.
Nathan had arrived in the main hall.
"Brother Ye!"
"Brother Ye..."
Scholars on both sides greeted him respectfully, most of them with admiration.
After all, Nathan was at the height of his renown, and his deeds had profoundly impacted many people.
As scholars, they felt compelled to respect him—not only for his achievements but also for the integrity he embodied.
Even Gavin Tsai, who harbored some hostility toward him, cupped his hands and addressed him with respect as "Brother Ye."
Though he admired Nathan, that didn't prevent him from wanting to compete.
"Brother Ye, would you care to write?" Gavin Tsai asked tentatively.
Nathan nodded. The desk was already prepared, with a young maid of striking appearance grinding ink nearby.
Nathan slowly picked up the brush. He was no stranger to calligraphy; in his previous life, he had been an enthusiast, and in this world, his past self had been a scholar who often practiced calligraphy at home.
As he held the brush, he felt a familiar sense of control. The moment he began to write, a wave of literary energy emanated from his first character.
"What remarkable handwriting!"
Those watching couldn't help but exclaim.
"This style seems unique—could Brother Ye have created it himself?"
An elderly scholar stared wide-eyed. He was also a calligraphy enthusiast and loved imitating famous styles, yet Nathan's writing differed completely from any established tradition. The strokes were elegant and swift, slender yet powerful, with a noble aura.
If some internet-savvy folks from his previous world saw it, they'd immediately recognize it as the "Slender Gold" style pioneered by Emperor Huizong of Song—a calligraphy style cherished in China for centuries with a large following.
However, for the natives of this world, it was astonishing beyond words.
Creating a unique calligraphic style is a near-impossible feat. Throughout history, only a handful of great calligraphers have managed it, each with their own distinct flair—whether graceful, bold, or uninhibited.
Nathan's calligraphy, mature and beautiful, was on par with these masters. It's no wonder that as he started writing, both his literary spirit and talent radiated around him, making him appear almost divine.
"Brother Ye's talent is astounding, creating an original style—simply unimaginable!"
"Most impressive is that he never showed even a hint of this before. Surely, he must have practiced quietly until it was perfected before revealing it."
"Such patience is the foundation of great achievements!"
"Regardless of the quality of his poetry, his calligraphy alone will secure him a place of honor in the literary circles of Da Zhou!"
"I can't wait to start practicing this style myself!"
All present were well-versed scholars, deeply captivated by Nathan's unique style. They instantly became his most loyal admirers.
"Step aside; I'll grind ink for Brother Ye!"
Sang Liu, equally amazed, waved the maid away and offered to assist Nathan himself. This wasn't about status, rank, or any other scheme—it was simply his way of expressing respect for a true master of calligraphy.
Indeed, Nathan Ye had become a master in his own right! This unique style alone meant that even a current calligraphy sage would treat him as an equal.
"Brother Ye is still young. As his skill grows, he may even become the next great sage of calligraphy!"
This startling thought echoed in Sang Liu's mind.
"A unique style?"
Clara Xiao was no novice in literature and was keenly aware of how groundbreaking Nathan's achievement was.
No wonder His Majesty thought so highly of him.
Even she found herself more curious than ever.
This book comes from:m.funovel.com。