Sikong Ran, usually an arrogant and imperious young master, now bore none of that haughty demeanor, his expression one of casual indifference.
"Though we're strangers for now, we shall become acquainted soon enough, won't we, Xiaoli? Heh heh."
Sikong Ran's smile was ingratiating, his delicate almond-shaped eyes curving into crescent moons.
He Zhongyi trailed behind Sikong Ran, observing the uncharacteristically humble young master, then casting a glance at Gu Qingli. Though his visage remained cold, there was no trace of disdain.
His gaze dimmed, unable to fathom the source of the inexplicable melancholy stirring within.
"Besides, we'll be classmates at the Fengyun Sacred Academy soon, both hailing from Loulan City. Naturally, we must cultivate a good rapport, heh heh."
"A reasonable point," Gu Qingli replied, arching an eyebrow with a faint, amused smile.
"Xiaoli, the guild leader wishes to see us."
Sun Jie approached Gu Qingli's side, speaking softly.
Her phoenix-like eyes narrowed slightly, a fleeting glimmer of light flashing within.
"Young Master Sikong, I have pressing matters to attend—excuse me."
"Oh, Xiaoli, just call me A Ran. That's what my family calls me."
With a cheerful grin, Sikong Ran dashed off before Gu Qingli could protest.
She shot him a sharp glance, then followed Sun Jie and the others toward the guild hall's rear chamber. In the distance, Sikong Aofeng watched the scene unfold, a trace of contemplation flickering in his eyes.
Shao Yan was already seated, awaiting their arrival.
"Guild Leader!"
Sun Jie and Gu Zhan respectfully clasped their fists in salute, while Gu Qingli's face bore a lively smile.
"Uncle Guild Leader, what summons us today?"
Her curiosity was genuine.
"Xiaoli, you have not disappointed my expectations," Shao Yan said warmly.
"Thank you, Uncle Guild Leader. I shall visit your residence in due time," Gu Qingli responded, always clear in her principles, and sincerely wishing to foster goodwill with Shao Lan, whom she regarded as a worthy youth.
"A good child indeed. But I did not call you here for that matter."
A chilling gleam flashed in Shao Yan's eyes, his expression turning grave.
Sun Jie and Gu Zhan exchanged surprised looks, uncertain of the meaning. The guild leader was ordinarily reclusive and seldom intervened in mercenary affairs.
Gu Qingli smirked slyly, sensing Shao Yan's intent: with the reckless Battle Wolf Corps running rampant, failure to rein them in could destabilize the entire Loulan mercenary guild.
"Uncle Guild Leader, please speak. We are all ears."
"Haha! Such a spirited little girl," Shao Yan chuckled, though his laughter soon gave way to solemnity.
"I intend to eliminate the Battle Wolf Corps!"
His voice was cold, devoid of emotion. Gu Qingli was unsurprised; a glint of 'just as I suspected' flickered in her eyes.
Sun Jie and Gu Zhan stood frozen, unable to fathom the normally enigmatic and powerful guild leader uttering such a declaration.
"Guild Leader, what compels you to such resolve?" Sun Jie asked, a spark of eagerness lighting his face.
"They have grown arrogantly insolent for far too long. Time and again, openly and covertly, they have flouted my rules. While I usually refrain from meddling in mercenary disputes, such blatant defiance is intolerable. Vice-Captain Sun, will you lend me your aid?"
Shao Yan's gaze softened as he looked toward Sun Jie.
Gu Qingli and Gu Zhan likewise turned their eyes to Sun Jie.