Three months later, the Thousand Family would offer an opportunity to train in the Nine Peaks behind their estate. The requirements were strict; those who were not members of the Thousand Family generally had to pass six additional trials to qualify. Qian Wanyu's implication was clear: she intended to earn a place without relying on her status as a member of the family.
Such proud bones, such a temperament-both took the old madam by surprise.
"I can give you three months to prepare."
"Two months will suffice."
After their discussion that day, the old madam sent Cai Qing herself to the Bamboo Lord Inn to bring Situ Hao and the others over.
"Arrange accommodations for the Third Young Lady's friends."
Bai Rou, Situ Hao, and the others were bewildered by the old madam's words. Third Young Lady? They exchanged puzzled looks.
Qian Wanyu stepped forward. "Thank you for making the arrangements, Old Madam, but I don't think that will be necessary. For these two months, I'll train with them and take the assessment alongside them. This place is just right. Sorry for the trouble, but we won't need anything else."
Even Wood could tell that Sister Wanyu was upset now. They all watched the two women curiously.
"Very well."
The old madam gave her a long look, left all the arrangements to Cai Qing, and departed, visibly displeased. Qian Wanyu had no desire to guess what she was thinking. As far as she was concerned, Qian Yiling's whereabouts remained unknown, and even Aunt Mo, who had gone looking for her, had vanished without a trace. She was determined to seize this chance to train in the Thousand Family's grounds. What did anyone else's joys and sorrows have to do with her?
Cai Qing withdrew of her own accord as well.