The atmosphere in the courtyard remained tense as the elders continued to address the gathering of disciples. The Mystic Realm expedition loomed ever closer, and it was clear that this journey would be a defining moment for many of them. For Lin Xue, it was another opportunity to ascend further in her cultivation and inch closer to her secret goal.
As the speeches went on, Lin Xue kept her focus on the elders, their words filling the courtyard like a solemn chant. She could feel the eyes of others on her—some filled with curiosity, others with jealousy—but she remained calm, her presence seemingly untouchable behind the veil.
Despite her outward indifference, Lin Xue couldn't ignore the undercurrents of tension. The inner sect disciples were far more competitive than those in the outer sect, and their ambitions ran deep. Many of them came from prestigious backgrounds, their families wealthy and powerful. But Lin Xue had long since stopped caring about status or lineage. Her focus was on strength, and nothing else mattered.
As the meeting concluded, the disciples began to break off into smaller groups, discussing the upcoming expedition in hushed tones. Lin Xue turned to leave when she felt a presence approaching from behind.
"Lin Xue, wait!"
She paused, recognizing the voice. Liang Chen. The tall, charming inner sect disciple had been watching her closely throughout the meeting. He stepped forward with a confident smile, his handsome features radiating warmth and friendliness. Several of the other disciples looked on, clearly curious about his intentions.
"That was quite the show earlier," Liang Chen said, his voice light. "I admire your composure. Bai Ling and the others can be… difficult."
Lin Xue met his gaze from behind the veil, her expression hidden but her cold eyes revealing little interest. "I have no time for petty games," she said simply. "My focus is on cultivation."
Liang Chen chuckled, his smile widening. "I can see that. Your reputation speaks for itself. But strength isn't everything, you know. In the inner sect, connections are just as important. You could benefit from… allies."
Lin Xue's gaze sharpened slightly, her eyes narrowing beneath the veil. "Allies?" Her voice was calm but carried an unmistakable chill. "Allies can be useful, but only when their interests align with mine. Otherwise, they're just a distraction."
Liang Chen's smile faltered for a moment, sensing her disinterest. But he was not easily deterred. "I'm not suggesting anything too serious," he said smoothly. "Just… mutual support. The Mystic Realm will be dangerous, and it's always better to have someone watching your back."
Lin Xue remained silent, her icy gaze making it clear that she was not swayed by his words. She understood the value of alliances, but she also knew that most offers came with strings attached. She had no intention of binding herself to anyone, especially not someone like Liang Chen, who seemed more interested in gaining favor than in true partnership.
"I appreciate your concern," Lin Xue said after a moment, her tone cold but polite. "But I'm more than capable of handling myself."
Before Liang Chen could respond, a soft laugh cut through the air.
"So, the great Lin Xue doesn't need anyone's help?" The voice was melodic, yet sharp.
Lin Xue turned to see another inner sect disciple approaching, her beauty rivaling that of Bai Ling. She was dressed in lavish robes embroidered with golden patterns, her long hair cascading down her back like a river of silk. This was Zhao Yue, another of the inner sect's most powerful female disciples, and her presence commanded attention wherever she went.
Zhao Yue's eyes gleamed with amusement as she regarded Lin Xue, her lips curved in a slight smirk. "I've heard a lot about you," she said, her tone carrying a hint of mockery. "Defeating Xu Tian, earning the favor of the elders… and now you're wearing a veil. Quite the statement."
Lin Xue regarded her with the same calm indifference she had shown Bai Ling earlier. "My actions speak for themselves," she replied. "I don't need to explain myself."
Zhao Yue's smirk widened. "Oh, I'm not asking for an explanation. I'm just curious how long you think you can maintain that icy exterior. The Mystic Realm isn't like the sect. Out there, it's life or death. Strength is important, but so is knowing who your enemies are."
The tension between them was palpable. Zhao Yue, like Bai Ling, came from a powerful family, and her cultivation level was impressive, having already reached the middle stage of Core Formation. She was not someone to be taken lightly.
But Lin Xue's confidence was unwavering. "I'm aware of the risks," she said coolly. "And I know how to handle my enemies. Whether in the Mystic Realm or elsewhere."
Zhao Yue's eyes flickered with something darker, though her smile remained. "We'll see about that," she said softly, before turning and walking away, her entourage of admirers following her.
As soon as Zhao Yue left, Liang Chen stepped forward again, his expression more serious this time. "You should be careful around her," he warned. "Zhao Yue isn't like Bai Ling. She's dangerous, and she doesn't take kindly to competition."
Lin Xue nodded slightly, though she didn't need his warning to understand the nature of the sect's inner workings. The disciples here were not just cultivating power—they were cultivating influence, alliances, and schemes. The strongest didn't always rise to the top. Sometimes, it was the most cunning.
But Lin Xue had no intention of getting caught up in their games. She had a different path ahead of her, one that didn't rely on others. Her ambition was far greater than they could imagine, and she wouldn't let herself be distracted by petty rivalries.
As she turned to leave, Liang Chen called after her once more. "Lin Xue," he said, his voice softer now, "just… be careful. There's a lot more at stake in the Mystic Realm than anyone realizes."
Lin Xue paused for a brief moment before continuing on her way, her veil fluttering in the wind. She appreciated the warning, but she had no fear. The Mystic Realm would be a test, but it was one she was prepared for. And if anyone thought they could stand in her way, they would soon learn just how cold and unforgiving ice could be.