Perhaps they were referring to talent? Or maybe they think Ruo will really advance? Like, I know Ruo is impressive and all, but last time, it was clear that he was much weaker than Prince Song, who in turn was equal or inferior to Yang Gan, that should put Ruo's base stats, as LH, between 7.5k and 9k. Considering that he visibly doesn't like transforming, Ruo doesn't stand a chance against today's strongest PHs. I'm not diminishing him or anything, just making a logical analysis.
So, my guess is, Ruo plans to see how far he can go the way he is and when he can't anymore, he'll advance and secure the win, I think that's what the Elders have in mind.