Sensing the sound of footsteps from outside the door, he tilted his head, as a ray of sunlight streamed into the room and kissed his handsome face which was more mesmerizing than the sunlight itself.
The door opened, and Elder Yu entered slowly. He lowered his head respectfully and said, "Young master, your servant has something to report."
The man gently raised his hand, stopping the old man from speaking any further.
His lips turned up into a charming curve, his eyes were like enchanting black pools, so beautiful that they could send waves of fancy into the hearts of many.
"Say no more, Elder Yu. I’ve seen everything that has happened downstairs. Gu Ruoyun does not look as unbearable as everyone says she is; at least, I wouldn’t peg her as a weakling or a coward…"
It was common knowledge in Azure Dragon Country that the most talented genius of their time, Gu Tian had a good-for-nothing daughter. Born stupid and timid, she was not only a disgrace to him, but also a shameful existence in the general’s household. Based on what he had seen today, not only were the rumors false, but seeing how aggressive the girl could be, he wondered, how could she possibly be a coward? Just who could have possibly started those rumors?
"Gu Ruoyun?" Elder Yu's mouth hung open in surprise, "Young master, are you saying that...She’s the daughter of Gu Tian and Lady Yu’er, Gu Ruoyun?"
"That is correct," the man’s slender fingers stroked the bamboo leaves next to him, his lips holding a mysterious smile, "There are very few people whom I admire, and as someone who has been able to grow to such admirable heights in such a poor environment, Gu Tian is one of such. Had he been born in a powerful country, he would have been one of the strongest warriors in all the mainlands. He and my elder sister were a match made in heaven. Unfortunately, the world decided to tear them apart."
The man sighed with regret, "Well, Gu Ruoyun should be calling me her uncle. However, I’ve heard from the family that Gu Ruoyun is completely useless, and that she is incomparable to Gu Tian. This time, nevertheless, I’ve come for her! Elder Yu, I approve of using the Hundred Herb Hall as part of your wager. After all, it is only one of the many businesses under my thumb. Losing it would merely be the equivalent to losing a few pieces of gold. However, simply because she's the daughter of Gu Tian, it doesn't mean that you should let her off easily. I want to see just how far her capabilities can go…"
With the amount of talent Gu Tian possessed, how could he have possibly produced a good-for-nothing daughter? The man thought to himself, I want to know if this girl has the power to dominate the heavens!
…
Downstairs, Gu Ruoyun raised her eyebrows upon hearing the footsteps from above. Her eyes turned towards Elder Yu, who was descending swiftly down the stairs.
"So, how did it go? Does your young master agree to my proposal?"
Upon finding out who Gu Ruoyun really was, Elder Yu felt perplexed. He never would have thought that this little girl would actually turn out to be the daughter of Gu Tian, and the Dongfang family’s beloved daughter. Should he ever insult her, then in the future…
While the young master did tell me to not to let her off too easily, it wouldn't hurt to take the difficulty level down a tiny notch, would it? Elder Yu wondered.
"Ahem!"
Elder Yu averted his gaze away from the girl at the thought, and let out a dry cough, "How shall we go about this competition, miss?"
"It's simple!" Gu Ruoyun curled her lips into a smile, "Your throat sounds a little hoarse, Elder Yu. Is this due to an old illness?"
Elder Yu was momentarily stunned, then nodded his head in honesty, "That is correct." he replied. "I once fought a powerful warrior and ended up heavily wounded, causing permanent damage to my throat. Despite being treated with medicine to save my life, I was unable to heal my wound completely."