Outside the secret realm, mist drifted across the mountain peaks, where three floating airships hovered in formation, each adorned with emblems of their respective sects, which glinted faintly under the sunlight, radiating power and prestige. Three Jindan (Gold Core) Elders stood upon these vessels, maintaining a cautious distance from one another.
Elder Leng Qingzi of Xuanshao Sect, tall and reserved, stood with his hands behind his back, exuding a chill that lowered the surrounding temperature. His expression impassive, he gazed toward the entrance of the secret realm, a faint frown on his face. In a low voice, he remarked, "Three days have passed with no clear reports from within. Each sect's disciples have been competing separately, and the outcome is difficult to predict."
To his side stood Elder Baimei of Cloudsky Sect, an elder with silver hair and a dignified presence. He gave a calm smile, replying with composed insight: "Elder Leng speaks wisely. Our disciples entered the realm to compete for resources, and intense rivalry is inevitable. However, should these contests further strain relations among the three sects, the consequences may be beyond repair."
On the other side, Elder Yuandou of Skyvault Sect—a broad and formidable figure, as unyielding as a mountain—crossed his arms, giving a discontented grunt. "My fellow elders, resource contention is commonplace among sects; no need for excessive caution. In my view, let them gain what they can through their own abilities. We share this realm, and if we continuously retreat over resources, our disciples will only become timid and weak."
Leng Qingzi gave a cold smile, countering in a low tone, "Brother Yuandou, your words miss the mark. Competition is one matter, but each of our three sects—Xuanshao, Cloudsky, and Skyvault—is expanding. Tensions have already escalated to the point where one wrong move could ignite direct conflict. The risks are far too great to ignore."
Baimei's gaze was deep as he looked out toward the mountains and said thoughtfully, "In my view, the enmity among the three sects is longstanding; the current tension was not formed overnight. Moreover, we've each sent our elite Foundation-level disciples into the realm. These disciples will one day form our sects' backbones. Should they suffer excessive casualties, our sects' foundations will be directly affected."
Yuandou's expression tightened slightly, though he maintained his stance: "Baimei, you seem overly concerned. The secret realm is inherently a trial. Only those who emerge from such trials are fit to support the sects. If we shelter them too much, how can we produce true strength?"
Leng Qingzi's gaze was piercing as he replied coolly, "Trials are indeed for honing disciples, but endless conflict may only worsen our relations. As Elder Baimei noted, hostilities between our three sects have long taken shape; if we fail to exercise restraint, greater conflicts are all but certain."
Baimei nodded faintly, his expression resolute. "Elder Leng makes an important point. With mounting tensions among the sects, unchecked conflict could spiral into a prolonged struggle. None of us would emerge unscathed."
Yuandou's brows furrowed, showing a hint of frustration. "You both have valid points. Yet, once inside, disciples are expected to fight for resources on their own. If we impose limitations, we lose the value of the trial itself. Do you suggest we intervene in their activities within the realm, Elder Leng?"
Leng Qingzi shook his head slightly. "Not at all. Conditions within the realm shift constantly, and that's precisely why we must avoid direct involvement, lest we provoke even greater strife. But, Yuandou, tensions are already as taut as a drawn bowstring; we cannot afford to ignore the risks. Another violent clash within could break the delicate balance between our sects entirely."
After a moment of silence and deliberation, Yuandou finally nodded. Though staunch in his beliefs, he understood that the current situation was unlike previous trials. The intricacies of their relationships had reached a precarious state, and even a minor misstep could lead to open conflict. A war among the sects would bring consequences none could endure.
Seeing Yuandou's agreement, Baimei smiled faintly and continued, "As elders, it's our duty not only to maintain the core of our own sects but also to preserve a balance among them. Let us refrain from stoking the fires in this realm; our disciples' battles must be tempered. What do my two brothers think?"
Leng Qingzi nodded in agreement. "If we can come to such an understanding, it may help stabilize matters. However, should intervention become necessary, we'll need to approach with caution."
Yuandou sighed heavily, then nodded once more. "Very well, since both of you advocate for this, Skyvault Sect will avoid unnecessary conflict. But should matters worsen, don't fault us for responding accordingly."
Even as he finished speaking, a faint glow shimmered from the entrance to the secret realm. All three elders turned to face it, a grave expression crossing their faces.