Seeing Anna's confusion at her statement, Aria cleared her throat several times before declaring:
"Paying your way into this academy is pretty common, especially when you have parents with a lot of money."
Nina, still holding Anna in an embrace, turned her head toward Aria with a look that practically screamed:
"Shut up already!"
Her gaze shifted briefly toward Anna, hoping Aria would catch the hint.
Anna, however, seemed oblivious, but Aria's eyes widened as the realization hit her.
"Oops…" she muttered under her breath, coughing awkwardly as she tried to steer the conversation elsewhere.
"Well, there are many ways to get into this academy. You can get in through talent, money, or influence. They're all valid methods."
Anna, who had stayed quiet until now, looked at Nina, then at Elara with wide eyes.
"How did you two get in?"
