Gu Jin shook her head gently. "It wasn't your fault. You were misled." Her gaze softened. "You only acted on what you believed to be true."
The three men exchanged uneasy looks. They all knew who she meant, Lady Ling.
For the first time, realization struck them. Lady Ling's words, her accusations… had all been lies.
Rick stepped forward carefully. "Lady Gu, Lord Long… Will you return with us?"
Gu Jin and Long Yifan exchanged a glance before nodding.
Rick's face brightened. With the help of an ancient artifact, he opened a glowing portal shimmering with runes.
"This will lead you safely back to the Mage World's council hall."
Gu Jin and Long Yifan examined the portal calmly. Their divine senses swept through it... it was genuine, without any hidden trap.
Gu Jin smiled faintly. "Then let's go."
Gu Jin and Long Yifan entered the portal without a hint of hesitation.
