Confusion rippled through the gathered cultivators as the demonic sect members abruptly scattered. Unlike the righteous sects, who stood bewildered by this unexpected move, the demonic cultivators vanished like phantoms, their movements swift and silent.
"What in the heavens are they up to?" boomed Sect Master Deng of the Azure Peak Sect, his voice echoing across the desolate plain.
Palace Mistress Gao Ming of the Emerald Sea Palace, her brow furrowed in worry, chimed in, "Their sudden dispersal seems… calculated. Perhaps they have a plan."
A tense silence descended upon the group as the leaders of the five righteous sects exchanged glances, their faces etched with apprehension. The task at hand, hunting desolate beasts for points, was already daunting enough. Now, the threat of betrayal and ambush from the demonic sects added a whole new layer of danger.
