The Portmaster's private observatory, on the top floor of Horizon Port.
This place was utterly unlike the bustling Port District below, as though it existed outside time and space. Its dome was fashioned from a single flawless piece of pure starcore crystal, offering a direct view of the boundless universe. The stars seemed close enough to touch, and the flowing rivers of starlight shimmered with color, serene and magnificent. At the center of the observatory, a round table made of lustrous white jade and flowing starlight hovered silently, surrounded by several chairs of the same material.
Lin Ye appeared in an almost imperceptible flash of lightning and stepped into this tranquil space. His [Dimensional Perception] spread silently, confirming that, just as Ayla had said, there were no hidden surveillance devices or guards. Only a gentle yet powerful Stasis Field enveloped the area, blocking all prying eyes from within and without.
Ayla was already waiting. She had shed the star-patterned robes that symbolized the Portmaster's authority and changed into simple moon-white casual clothes. Her veil remained, but much of the commanding air surrounding her had receded, lending her a deeper sense of mystery. She stood quietly gazing at the starry rivers overhead, as though she had become one with them.
"Right on time, Mr. Lin Ye." Ayla slowly turned, her star-like eyes settling on him as she gestured for him to sit.
Lin Ye sat in the white jade chair opposite her and watched her calmly, in no hurry to speak. He knew the pace of this conversation would determine how much of the truth he could uncover.
Ayla waved a hand lightly, and two cups of liquid appeared on the table, fragrant and fresh, seemingly condensed from starlight. "Stillstar Tea. It soothes the mind and works wonders for untangling confused