The grand hall of the Autumn Dragon Sect was silent.
Some stood frozen, others lowered their heads, their thoughts tangled in the implications of what had just been said. But then—
One of the elders stepped forward.
His long white beard swayed as he moved, his deep-set eyes filled with wisdom and authority.
His robes, embroidered with the golden sigil of the sect, shimmered under the lantern light.
He raised his hand, and instantly, all whispers ceased.
"It seems many of you do not yet understand what it means to be part of this sect," the elder began, his voice firm but calm. "You see it as a battlefield. A place where only the strong survive. But let me ask you all this—do you know why the Autumn Dragon Sect was founded?"
The disciples exchanged glances. Some looked uncertain. Others merely remained silent.
