Chapter 43: Gao

"Only bits and pieces," Wuyi admitted.

"What have you observed?" Chao probed.

Wuyi paused, collecting his thoughts. "He dines in solitude. I've never seen him idly conversing, whether in the training grounds, the laundry courts, or the Moonlit Gardens. He always seems to be on a mission, always in haste. He's not good with animals; the hounds avoid him, and he's so heavy-handed with the horses that he ruins their spirits. He's probably around Boluo's age and dresses quite elegantly, almost rivaling the attire of the young masters."

Chao leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as if trying to read Wuyi's thoughts. "What else have you observed about him?"

"That's all I can recall," Wuyi replied.

"Has he ever spoken to you?"

"No."

Chao nodded thoughtfully. "What have you heard of his reputation? What do you suspect?"