After Neji showed a little of his edge, the atmosphere at the Star-Appreciation Gathering became even more subtle. The subsequent tasting of spirit fruits, exchange of cultivation insights, and even the viewing of a specific stellar energy-tide phenomenon all seemed uneventful.
As the host, Ōtsutsuki Huiyao handled everything with poise. When speaking with Neji, she mostly discussed insights into stellar laws and the energy characteristics of different star domains. Their exchange carried something of the air of a discussion on the Dao. She did not hastily probe into the details of Neji's mission or his stance, showing considerable tact.
Neji was more than happy with that. With the perspective of the Nascent Soul stage, the Chaos Divine Eye's insight into laws, and the Ōtsutsuki knowledge he had gained from Isshiki Otsutsuki's memories and ancient texts, he handled the conversation with ease. Some of the insights he offered even made Huiyao's eyes shine repeatedly.
This initially left the younger generation of the Conservative Faction with the impression that he was "exceptionally knowledgeable and still well-grounded," rather than merely a fallen nobody.
The gathering did not disperse until late at night. Before they parted, Huiyao personally escorted Neji to the platform. Her pale golden eyes seemed especially bright beneath the stars as she smiled. "Lord Isshiki Otsutsuki, your bearing today was deeply impressive. The journey to the Frontier Starfield is surely fraught with danger, so please take care of yourself. If the opportunity arises, I hope we can discuss the Stellar Great Dao again."
"There will be an opportunity." Neji answered calmly before boarding the Void Carriage and departing. Huiyao's intentions to show goodwill and recruit him were already clear, but he gave no definite promise. For now, he still needed the "legitimate" identity and mission channels provided through Longshi's line.
After