Luoyun Manor, Council Hall.
The light within the hall was dim. The curling smoke of sandalwood failed to dispel the oppressive atmosphere, thick with conspiracy and calculation.
Manor Master Lu Canghai occupied the head seat. To his left sat Monk Xuanbei, First Seat of Prajna Hall at Golden Spring Temple, while Lu Qingsong, Sect Leader of the Iron Sword Sect, was seated to his right.
The three men wore varied expressions, their minds whirring with unspoken thoughts.
Monk Xuanbei rolled his Buddhist Beads between his fingers. His face was a mask of benevolence, but a well-hidden shrewdness and chill lurked in the depths of his eyes.
A hint of barely perceptible urgency and anticipation was etched on Lu Canghai's brow as his fingers drummed unconsciously on the armrest of his chair.
As for Lu Qingsong, his brow was slightly furrowed and his gaze lowered, as if deep in consideration.
"Lu, regarding what I just proposed... what are your thoughts?"
