Gu Ruoyun laughed cynically. "How could I not understand what you mean? It was my weakness that brought upon the violent deaths of my mother, maternal grandfather and my little brother, causing my loved ones to leave me behind, one by one! Seeing as the heavens chose to spare my life, I must become the ruler of the world! I shall dictate who deserves to live or die!"
As she spoke, the young girl’s voice grew with dominance, illuminating her normally inconspicuous face.
Zixie smiled and stroked Gu Ruoyun’s hair. "Little girl, you must first consume this Qi Gathering pill and breakthrough to level 3 of the Qi Collection Ranks before you leave."
"Alright."
A glint flashed across Gu Ruoyun’s eyes. She had a strong feeling that she would breakthrough to level three once she consumed the Qi Gathering pill…
A sleepless night.
By the time Gu Ruoyun finally appeared before the eyes of the Gu Family, it was the eleventh hour. The Gu Family members, who had long wished for her to stay far away, have never looked forward to her return as much as they did today.
General Gu simply could not be bothered to say too much to her. He shot her a lukewarm glance and barked, "The cultivators from the Weapon Refining Sect have already arrived in the Imperial Palace. His Imperial Highness has issued an order — that everyone must attend the Crown Prince’s birthday celebration. There’s no time for you to clean up now. You will leave with us immediately."
Actually, Gu Ruoyun herself wasn’t too clear about the situation. However, because she felt curious about the standards of the cultivators of this mainland, she did not defy General Gu’s orders.
In a room filled with a faint fragrant scent, a man stood with his hands behind his back. The faint glow of sunlight poured down upon his figure, casting a long shadow behind his back.
Elder Yu stood behind the Young Master of his house, watching him. He hesitated before he spoke, "Young Master, two elders from the Weapon Refining Sect have arrived in Azure Dragon Country. I’m not sure why… While the Crown Prince of Azure Dragon Country may be Elder Hunfei’s disciple, he would never attend a gathering for no good reason, knowing his haughty attitude. Besides, even Elder Tianling and the Sect Master’s daughter have tagged along. I cannot shake this feeling…that something is about to happen."
The man raised his head gently. "Regardless of their reasons, it has nothing to do with the Dongfang Family. However, I remember Elder Hunfei eyeing Gu Shengxiao due to his talent, yet Shengxiao rejected him. Only then was the Crown Prince accepted as his disciple."
"Young Master, are you saying that he might cause trouble for Lady Ruoyun?"
"No." The man shook his head. "The Weapon Refining Sect still holds some level of prestige in the mainland. They can’t do things like this. That’s right, Elder Yu, I will be returning to the Dongfang Family home soon. You will stay here and help Gu Ruoyun."
Elder Yu was stunned, his elderly face showing a hint of astonishment.
"Young Master, this…"
"Elder Yu, you’ve always known that I initially established the Hundred Herb Hall as an extra source of funds for myself. But if the Hundred Herb Hall can aid Gu Ruoyun in her quest to greatness, then what’s the harm in giving it to her? Besides, she is the daughter of my elder sister. I’ve asked you to stay because I want you to observe her true potential. If she has none, you will return to the Dongfang Family home, without any need for her permission. Instead of involving her in our internal disputes, why not let her live a life free of burden?"
There was a hint of helplessness in the man’s voice.
Elder Yu lowered his head and replied respectfully, "Yes, Young Master. Your old servant shall follow your commands."
…
"Ruoyun!"
In the Imperial Gardens. Luo Yin spotted Gu Ruoyun, who was trailing behind the Gu Family members, in a single glance, and felt instant joy. She rushed towards Gu Ruoyun, completely ignoring the fact that General Luo, who was right next to her, was glaring fiercely at her.