The next morning, the sect physicians were baffled but relieved. The five collapsed disciples began recovering rapidly, their Qi stabilizing overnight. Master Hwan announced that an "ancient purification technique" had been discovered in the archives, performed by Jin with assistance from senior guards.
Raon, naturally, was not mentioned.
But Elder Cho was not convinced.
"Young Master," he said during a private meeting Raon overheard while passing by (definitely not eavesdropping), "with all due respect, that purification formation was Grand Master level. You are talented, but you should not have been able to perform such a technique."
"Perhaps I'm more talented than you thought, Elder," Jin replied coolly.
"Or perhaps someone taught you."
Silence.
"Elder Cho," Jin said carefully, "are you accusing me of lying?"
"I'm suggesting that someone in this sect possesses knowledge they shouldn't. Knowledge of corrected techniques, purification rituals, and advanced cultivation methods that have been lost for generations."
**He's narrowing in on you. This is bad.**
"If such a person exists," Jin said, "they're clearly helping the sect. Why interrogate a gift?"
"Because gifts can be poisoned," Elder Cho said darkly. "The Alliance is known for planting skilled infiltrators who gain trust before striking. How do we know this 'helper' isn't preparing to destroy us from within?"
**Okay, that's actually a fair point. From his perspective, you look super suspicious.**
Raon moved away from the door, his mind racing. He couldn't let suspicion fall on Jin. But how could he deflect it without exposing himself?
**You know what you need? A scapegoat. Or better yet, a distraction so big that everyone forgets to investigate.**
"Like what?"
**Like another Alliance attack. Or a mysterious wandering master who takes credit.**
"Give it a rest will you."