Gu Xun had already reached seventh-level mastery two days ago. Qiao Zhi wondered whether, if they sparred, she could win or at least hold a draw. Before she could voice any hesitation, Gu Xun proposed a formal duel—real swords at the ready. "Of course," Qiao Zhi replied without pause.
They could spar with each other. At worst, she could improve her strength to the seventh level, or break through during the battle to make it less suspicious. In this way, she would also have the chance to advance her strength without arousing Gu'er's father's suspicion and which will also enable her to use more of her strength in the future.
"No." Gu Yangjin frowned, bent to retrieve the sword from the ground, and handed it back to Qiao Zhi. "Qiao Zhi and I have just sparred. Gu Xun, you propose sparring at this moment—if you win, it won't feel fair."
Gu Xun was momentarily stunned. It would have been acceptable if his junior sister simply declined, but why did she become so protective of Qiao Zhi?
