Just as Hu Chuan was worried, muffled footsteps came from outside.
Groups of old professors wearing thick glasses chatted as they moved forward and quickly found their own positions.
Professor Barnington, who was sitting at the front, looked at the crowd in the auditorium and sighed. "There seem to be more people than last time."
Professor Lancelot said, "After all, there are more people interested in the Hail Conjecture than Zhou's Conjecture."
Professor Lancelot paused and said, "Do you think his solution to the conjecture is correct?"
"At least, I didn't find any obvious problems," Barnington said. "Of course, we'll have to see the details of his report. However, I'm full of expectations for him."
Lancelot nodded in understanding. Then, he looked at the pocket watch hanging around his neck and said, "It's almost time."
Barnington's expression became even more expectant.
...
