Audishiya rested her chin lightly on one hand, her bearing languid and regal. Her purple eyes settled calmly on Fan Nuo. Her tone was even, her seemingly casual question concealing a sharp edge:
"You and I have never had any dealings, but my subordinates tell me you normally devote yourself to your studies and acting. You never seek out the powerful or involve yourself in disputes like these?"
That blunt question struck straight to the heart of the matter, quietly tearing away the pretense surrounding the deliberate, unusual nature of her visit.
Fan Nuo's heart tightened at those words. She sensed two sage-level auras locking onto her in an instant, leaving her as though seated on a bed of needles.
Without the slightest hesitation, she raised her head openly, her gaze clear and candid as she faced the divine maiden in the seat of honor. She spoke softly, and with that single statement, she thoroughly "sold out" every faction involved, including the Miro Clan:
"Your Highness sees with eyes like blazing torches. I dare not conceal anything. This visit was not my own intention, nor was it simply at the Miro Clan's request. The various factions of the Council of Elders pressured me until I had no choice but to enter the game."
At those words, the still atmosphere inside the hall shifted almost imperceptibly.
Seated motionless to one side, Tan Lin's dark eyes flickered faintly, a trace of surprise passing through their depths.
She sold out those financial backers the moment she arrived?
How would she answer to them when she returned?
Yet on the cushioned couch, a hint of approval appeared between Audishiya's cool brows.
Most prodigies of exceptional talent were easily blinded by fame and fortune in their youth, their hands and feet bound by personal obligations.