He turned toward the remaining disciples and elders. "Disperse. Return to your duties and await further instructions. Your leaders and I have matters to discuss."
The disciples and lesser elders exchanged uneasy glances before bowing deeply and retreating. The courtyard quickly emptied, leaving Shen Yuan alone with the Ancestor, Sect Master, Grand Elder, and several senior elders.
Shen Yuan gestured toward a grand hall nearby. "Let's continue this discussion in private. There's much to plan."
The Silver Fox Sect members looked amongst themselves before quietly following behind Shen Yuan.
…
Inside the grand hall, the atmosphere was tense but quieter. Shen Yuan took a seat at the head of the large table, his relaxed posture a stark contrast to the strained expressions of the sect leaders.
Xueyan, now perched on his shoulder in her smaller form, let out a low growl of approval as she observed the room.
