April 12th, Noon.
Hua Country Chess Institute is located in the cultural heart of Beijing, where at noon, the atmosphere is tranquil and elegant, as if it is a quiet oasis in a bustling city.
Sunlight filtered through gauzy curtains, casting shadows on the antique wooden Go board. The interplay of light and shadow reflected the black and white world of the pieces, like a flowing ink painting.
Inside the hall, players either sat or stood; some were immersed in deep thought, their brows furrowed, tapping their fingers lightly on the table as if they were strategizing against thousands of troops in their mind. Others had just finished a game and sat opposite each other reviewing their match, chatting and laughing, the air filled with a rich academic atmosphere and the spirit of friendly competition.
Occasionally, the crisp sound of Go pieces being placed on the board could be heard.