In the Celestial Summit Hall, Li Yao sat regally upon her throne, her penetrating gaze fixed on the two sect masters standing before her. The atmosphere was thick with tension as her chilling aura filled the chamber, making even these powerful cultivators uncomfortable.
Yan Xuelian shifted her weight slightly, her mind racing. Had the young sect master somehow uncovered their ulterior motives? She forced her features into a pleasant expression, though anxiety coursed through her veins.
"Sect Master Li, I was late to greet you. I apologize," she offered with grace, bowing her head respectfully.
Li Yao remained silent, her unwavering stare boring into Yan Xuelian like a physical weight. The prolonged silence stretched painfully, making each heartbeat seem louder and louder. Just when Yan Xuelian thought she might crack under the pressure, Li Yao's attention shifted to Zhao Tiangang.
