Gu Yan closed the door softly behind him as he stepped out of Tang Ning's room, his thoughts filled with questions about the girl. Tang Ning had shown remarkable resilience and composure. As he walked down the long hallway, a maid appeared from around the corner, bowing slightly before delivering her message.
"Young Master, the Old Master requests your presence in his study."
Gu Yan nodded and quickened his pace, making his way through the ancestral corridors of the mansion. The scent of aged wood and ancient books wafted through the air as he entered the study. His grandfather, Old Master Gu, sat behind a large, mahogany desk, surrounded by scrolls and rare medicinal texts. His presence, as always, was commanding yet calm.
"Grandfather," Gu Yan greeted with respect, bowing deeply before standing straight.
Old Master Gu glanced up, his sharp eyes revealing years of wisdom and experience. He gestured for Gu Yan to sit in the chair across from him.
"What did you notice about the little girl, Tang Ning, on your way?" the Old Master asked without preamble.
Gu Yan hesitated, his mind sifting through the interactions he'd had with Tang Ning since they first met. "Despite her fear of heights, she rode the cable car without flinching, her small hands clenching into fists. It was only when we reached solid ground that she trembled."
The Old Master nodded thoughtfully. "I see. What else did you observe about her?"
Gu Yan hesitated, then said, "She's surprisingly stubborn, considering her small size."
Old Master Gu nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. A strong will can either be a blessing or a curse. It depends on how one chooses to wield it."
Gu Yan sat quietly for a moment, then ventured, "Grandfather, I have a request. I believe Tang Ning should study under you."
The Old Master raised an eyebrow but said nothing, encouraging Gu Yan to continue.
"I would like you to teach both of us—Tang Ning and myself. She may not have the background in medicine, but with her determination, I think she could be a fast learner. This could be an opportunity for her to gain valuable skills, especially with the influence the Gu family has in the world of medicine and martial arts."
Old Master Gu leaned back in his chair, his gaze piercing into his grandson's. "Do you truly believe she is capable of understanding the delicate art of medicine? This is no simple task, Gu Yan. It requires patience, dedication, and a sharp mind."
"I do, Grandfather," Gu Yan replied confidently. "I will help her. I'll teach her everything I know, but she needs your guidance. Your experience cannot be replaced."
The Old Master was silent for a long moment, contemplating. Then he leaned forward slightly. "Very well. I will agree to teach her, but only on one condition."
Gu Yan's heart swelled with hope, though he remained cautious. "What condition?"
Old Master Gu's voice assumed a weighty gravity that filled the room.
"Tang Ning must pass my test. She must prove she has the potential to be worth my time. The test will be simple yet revealing. She must be able to identify a set of herbs I will present to her, herbs that are vital in both medicine and poison."
Gu Yan's heart sank slightly. He knew Tang Ning had no experience with herbal medicine. "But, Grandfather, she knows nothing about herbs."
"Then teach her," the Old Master said firmly. "You have one month, Gu Yan. If she can identify the herbs by then, I will take her under my wing. If not, I will not waste my time."
Gu Yan clenched his fists, determination settling within him. "I accept your condition."
The Old Master nodded, the faintest hint of approval in his eyes. "One month, Gu Yan. The clock is ticking."