The circle grew colder, heavier. No one spoke for several breaths, though the implication hung heavy in the air.
Xun Lan finally broke the silence. "Speculation gains us nothing for now. Whether there is a traitor or not, the reality is clear—we are being hunted. That masked figure will not stop here. This ambush was but a test. Next time, they will strike harder."
The elders fell into grim agreement.
"Then what do you propose?" one asked sharply.
"We tighten security," Xun Lan said. "The disciples must not stray from formation. Scouts move in groups, never alone. And every night, we double the wards and Elders will personally keep watch in shifts. The inner ring is before us, but entering while we are divided will only feed us into their jaws."
Another elder, his robes soaked with blood, scowled. "We are wasting time. The longer we delay, the more they will prepare. We should push forward quickly and establish a foothold before they can strike again."
