Time flew by, years passing in the blink of an eye.
Before she knew it, Gu Qingli was already five years old. At this age, the younger generation of the Gu family was subject to the talent test, a tradition that was of utmost importance to the families of the Divine Ancient Continent, where strength was revered above all else.
The talent test represented an authority, often heralding the rise of exceptional geniuses. Thus, every family placed immense importance on it.
Throughout the illustrious history of the Gu family, the most extraordinary genius was undoubtedly the sixth-generation family head, Gu Langa.
At the age of forty-five, he had reached the rank of Spirit Emperor and even possessed an ancient mythical beast as his contracted companion, one that had been thought extinct for centuries.
Gu Langa was the architect of an era of unparalleled strength, and to this day, legends of his exploits still echo throughout the continent.
It was during his time that the Gu family rose to prominence as the foremost of the Six Great Families.
After Gu Langa had conquered the continent and become invincible, he mysteriously disappeared, with rumors suggesting that he ascended to a higher-dimensional realm to seek even greater martial mastery.
However, the Gu family was no longer as prosperous as it had been during his reign. Talent had withered in recent years, and the once unassailable position at the top of the Six Great Families was now in jeopardy.
As a result, the Gu family was now placing even greater emphasis on nurturing gifted young members.
Any child showing promise was afforded great attention and resources, which were allocated according to their talent and strength.
It was Gu Qingli's first time visiting the main hall of the Gu family, and the grandeur of the ancient structure took her breath away. The majestic hall stood tall, its crimson walls and golden-glazed tiles exuding an aura of antiquity. Surrounding it were the towering, undulating mountains, creating a stunning view of magnificence and awe-inspiring power.
Even Gu Qingli, who considered herself worldly, was struck by the splendor of the main hall.
At that moment, the high seats of the hall were filled with the elders of the Gu family.
However, today, the focus of the elders was not on the older generation but on the young children, the future hopes of the Gu family.
"My little Li'er will definitely be a genius!"
Gu Zhan's face was filled with a warm, affectionate smile, radiating with paternal love.
Gu Qingli beamed at him, her eyes sparkling as she gazed at the round emblem pinned to his chest.
The badge was green at its base, with two crossed silver swords at its center, and a prominent silver "6" in the middle. This signified that he was a Six-Star Great Warrior within the Martial Sword Master ranks, his battle aura emanating in a blue hue.
Gu Zhan's abilities were outstanding among his peers.
On the Divine Ancient Continent, warriors were divided into Martial Sword Masters and Spirit Sword Masters, with Martial Sword Masters classified into seven ranks.
From low to high, the ranks were: First-Level Warrior, Second-Level Warrior, Third-Level Great Warrior, Fourth-Level Martial King, Fifth-Level Martial Saint, Sixth-Level Martial Venerable, and Seventh-Level Martial Emperor.
Each rank was distinguished by a different battle aura color, and each rank had nine stars. When advancing, a large circular silver pattern would appear at one's feet, protected by the rules of the heavens.
Ouyang Qian wore a soft green gown, her face adorned with a graceful and gentle smile. Her eyes, full of warmth, lovingly observed her tall, handsome husband and their clever, charming daughter.
Gu Qingli, now five years old, had large, shiny eyes that sparkled like gems. Her phoenix eyes, similar to Ouyang Qian's, shone brightly on her small face like jewels.
"Ah, little Li'er has arrived. She's growing more and more beautiful," came the voice of a flirtatious woman.
Gu Qingli turned to see her third uncle's second wife, Han Jiao, standing there.