Gu Ruoyun was led by Elder Yu to the outskirts of the imperial capital. A courtyard completely hidden by the lush foliage of the forest surroundings came into view.

I hadnt thought that Hundred Herb Hall would own a place like this, Gu Ruoyun smiled faintly, This place does suit my need for secrecy. Before I grow my wings, I dont want anyone to know of my capabilities.

Elder Yu turned to look at Gu Ruoyun and returned the smile: This is where Young Master used to practice his skills. Theres an Eight Trigram Formation set up here. No one will be able to reach this place unless they are led here. When he heard that Eldest Miss wanted to train her own army, Young Master bade me to give this place to you.

Dongfang Shaoze?

Gu Ruoyun was stunned for a moment, and she wrinkled her brows slightly: What kind of connection did your Young Master have with my parents? Why is he helping me so unreservedly?

Please forgive this old servant, but Im unable to tell you that. Young Master will definitely tell Eldest Miss when its time for you to know. Itll only do you harm to know some things before the time is ripe. Young Master has his own troubles.

The Dongfang family was doing poorly now. Even Young Master was in the middle of hot water. How could Young Master bear to pull her down with him at this kind of time?

Especially since she wasnt strong enough

Seeing that Elder Yu was unwilling to say more, Gu Ruoyun did not continue questioning him. She calmed down and said: Lets go. Take me to the people youve chosen for me.

Gu Ruoyun had just entered the courtyard when numerous gazes full of caution were shot her way. She didnt say much, but measured up the crowd standing within the courtyard.

Undoubtedly, the candidates Elder Yu had chosen had excellent physical potential and were cultivation talents. However, all of them seemed to have suffered some sort of trauma. None of their eyes were as clear and bright as that of normal people. Conversely, their gazes carried hatred.

This was exactly what she needed.

Perhaps Elder Yu has already told you the reason youve been brought here from the start. But all of you never thought that the one who needed you would be a little girl like me, Gu Ruoyun smiled faintly, and a light that no one could ignore was shining in that smile, Maybe youre not convinced, and you think that a girl like me wont be able to rule over all of you. Well, I have something to tell you. If you want to change your fate, if you want to trample over your tormentors, if you want to become someone standing above the rest, then you have to obey me!

It was obvious that Gu Ruoyun had seen the reluctance in the crowds eyes from the start.

Although they had fallen to this level due to circumstances, it didnt mean that they were willing to obey a teenage girl.

Hmph, since youve already said it, then show us some of your ability to make us submit to you.

At this moment, a mocking voice sounded out from the crowd.

Gu Ruoyun followed the sound back to its source, and her gaze landed on a young man in shabby green clothes. She smiled: Whats your name?

Xunfeng.

The youth raised his head arrogantly and answered in a cool tone.

Not bad, Gu Ruoyun eyed Xunfeng and nodded slightly, Its not bad that you have your pride and temper. I wont suppress your personalities here, and you dont need to be apprehensive. As for my capabilities If you can pass my test, then Ill prove my ability to all of you here! How about it? Do you have the guts to try it out?