Inside the high walls of the Guiyang Parade Ground lay a dozen or so acres of sandy earth, where the frantic trampling of over a thousand prospective examinees kicked up continuous squalls of dust.
In the far distance stretched a boundless, primeval forest. Towering ancient trees blocked out the sun and sky, lending the scene an eerie, chilling mystery.
In the center of the parade ground stood several pavilions built from massive blocks of stone. Hanging from the middle pavilion was a square plaque carved with four powerful, vigorous characters in gold leaf: "Wuting Pavilion."
Chapter 31