Perhaps because her earlier strategy had failed to work, the Priestess's attitude had undergone a dramatic change. Even her tone had softened considerably. Though she still sounded emotionless, she no longer carried that aggressive air. It was more like she was negotiating with Zhang Heng, and the terms she offered were quite generous.
However, Zhang Heng did not agree immediately. Negotiations always required some haggling. After a brief pause, he said, "Add one more condition. After carrying out this Oracle, I will never again be chosen as an executor of an Oracle."
"That's impossible." The Priestess shook her head. "First, it goes against the rules. Second, even if I were willing to agree, I couldn't make it happen. Although I issue the Oracles, the executors are chosen by the Assassin Council. If everyone thinks you are suited to carry out an Oracle, then they will choose you. Under normal circumstances, the same person will not be assigned to carry out two Oracles in a row."
Yet that answer did not satisfy Zhang Heng, so he continued, "Then you can choose not to issue any Oracles. Dadatis told me that there had once been a period of more than forty years without a single Oracle."
"..."
The Priestess was speechless. "What do you take me for? I am merely Keleisi's representative in the mortal world. I cannot decide whether Keleisi issues an Oracle or when she issues one. Besides, Dadatis told you about the Hounds too, didn't he? Things have not been peaceful recently. Even without an Oracle, you might not have much free time."
"Then what else can you offer me?" Zhang Heng asked.
The Priestess bit her lip. "If you insist on getting the better end of this deal, then how about adding me as well?"
Zhang Heng was