However, the various sects were mindful of the strength of the Higher Teachings and did not want to make an enemy of them; hence, they did not seize upon this matter.
"We are grateful that Teacher Tianhai upholds justice and has taken this matter to heart..."
"This matter involves internal affairs within our Sect. I, Ruan, did not wish to speak too much about it in public, but today's situation was unexpected... Our Sect cannot afford to hide too much, lest it lead to misunderstandings among the various sects."
Ruan Baimei regained his composure. He took a deep breath, bowed to the surrounding cultivators from the various sects, and said solemnly, "Hai An, son of Song Dao, has committed a grave error. Although our Sect wishes to pass judgment, Master Xu left the Sect many years ago and is not present, making a public trial difficult. Thus… the matter has been shelved, without a clear resolution…"
