There was something about Xiao Fang. Something unknown. And for now, that mystery was worth betting on more than her own.
Following Li Qin's line of sight, all eyes turned to Xiao Fang.
The Matriarch remained silent for a moment, studying him. Then, without looking back to the stage, she spoke.
"Do you truly believe you can win?"
"I do," Xiao Fang answered without hesitation.
The Matriarch closed her eyes and sighed. She could feel he was telling the truth, and something more—as if he needed to be there. She didn't know what he was planning, but it didn't matter now, it was enough that he thought he could win.
"Okay. Go prepare yourself. I will authorize the substitution."
Her words caused ripples of murmurs and disbelief among the elders, but no one dared oppose her now. The only one itching to see Xiao Fang fight was Supreme Elder Song.
Xiao Fang stepped forward—but paused.
"There's one thing I'll need."
