The Hall of Liberation buzzed with urgency as high-profile individuals gathered. The vast chamber, reminiscent of an ancient Roman parliament, was filled with thirty-nine elders, four deans, two vice-headmasters, and the headmaster himself, all seated in order of their authority. The central area of the hall was arranged in concentric semi-circles, with each tier slightly elevated above the one before it, ensuring everyone had a clear view of the proceedings.

At the front and center, the headmaster's seat stood slightly raised, signifying his supreme authority. Flanking him on either side, the two vice-headmasters' seats were positioned just a step below. One of these seats was occupied by Prince Yi Hao of Zhou, who served as a vice-headmaster in name and acted as an envoy. The other vice-headmaster, Liu Feiyan, was a stern man with sharp features, embodying the academy’s strict discipline and authority.

Behind the vice-headmasters’ seats, Yi Jing and Tang Chen sat, their youthful faces marked with a blend of curiosity and concern. They were given special seating, their presence sanctioned by the headmaster himself.

The four deans, each representing a major academy department, sat in the next row, their faces stern and focused. Surrounding them were the thirty-nine elders, their long robes and flowing beards giving them an air of ancient wisdom and experience.

Additional seats lined the outer perimeter of the hall, arranged for various distinguished guests and high-ranking officials who were also present, observing the meeting. The hall, dimly lit by the flickering glow of hanging lanterns, created a solemn atmosphere that matched the gravity of the occasion.

The room was alive with hushed conversations and the rustling of robes as the clock inched closer to midnight. This was not a regular gathering but an emergency convocation called in response to a crisis that threatened the very foundation of the academy.

As the final chime rang out, signaling the stroke of midnight, Headmaster Wang Baole rose from his seat. His long white beard and flowing green silk robe caught the light, casting an imposing figure. With a wave of his hand, he commanded silence, and the room fell still.

“Esteemed elders, deans, vice-headmasters, and honored guests,” he began, his voice echoing through the chamber, “we are gathered here tonight under dire circumstances. An incident has occurred within our Outer Court that demands our immediate attention and decisive action.”

He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle over the assembly. The gathered leaders of the academy sat in rapt attention, fully aware that whatever had prompted this meeting was of critical importance.

“We have reason to believe that a notorious outlaw organization has infiltrated our grounds and attempted an assassination within the premises of our Outer Court,” Headmaster Wang continued his tone grave. “This threat is not just to one individual but to the integrity and security of our entire academy.”

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“Who was the target?” asked one elder.

“Han Xiao, the Seventh Prince of the Han Nation,” Elder Bo responded calmly.

“Hmph! That good-for-nothing prince of Han,” sneered one elder in disgust. “I don’t think this emergency convocation is necessary at this hour of the night.”

“He’s still breathing. Why call this meeting, Elder Bo?” Another elder from the former’s faction questioned.

Elder Bo's face remained impassive. "Because the threat goes beyond Prince Han Xiao. It's a direct challenge to our academy's security and honor. Ignoring it would be a grave mistake."

Murmurs of concern rippled through the hall, with some thinking it was inappropriate to disturb their night. The headmaster’s announcement confirmed their worst fears.

“Now, we must discuss our next steps. I invite Elder Bo to provide a detailed report on the incident and our initial findings.”

Elder Bo stood and moved to the center of the hall. The tension in the room was palpable as he prepared to speak, knowing that his words would shape the academy’s response to this unprecedented threat.

“Tonight, my scouts and I were patrolling the academy grounds when we heard a loud commotion from the western side of the premises—more like the sound of an explosion. In the chaos, we approached the scene and found three dead assassins and a severed arm holding a saber in the bamboo garden,” he began.

His voice was steady, but the gravity of his words sent a ripple of unease through the assembly. “The bodies were encased in ice, which is highly unusual and indicates the involvement of a powerful cultivator. Initially, I suspected it might be the work of one of our own students, but upon closer inspection, it became clear that this level of skill far surpasses what we’ve seen from our current disciples.”

Elder Bo paused, letting the information sink in. “These assassins were not ordinary. Their presence here, within the confines of our Outer Court, suggests a breach of our security that we cannot ignore. The fact that they were targeting a specific individual, Prince Han Xiao, further complicates matters.”

The assembly reacted with a mix of shock and concern. Prince Yi Hao leaned forward, his expression grim. “Are you certain this was an assassination attempt on Prince Han Xiao?” he asked.

Elder Bo nodded. “Yes, Vice-Headmaster. The evidence points to a deliberate attempt on his life. Moreover, we found a symbol on the severed arm—a crimson ouroboros seal, which belongs to the Perpetual Nirvanic Alliance.”

A collective gasp echoed through the hall. The mention of the Perpetual Nirvanic Alliance brought a wave of anxiety. This organization was infamous, and their involvement signified a much larger threat.

Headmaster Wang Baole’s eyes narrowed. “This is indeed grave news. The Perpetual Nirvanic Alliance has long been a thorn in our side. Their reappearance here means we are dealing with a well-coordinated and dangerous enemy.”

“Wait!” Elder Xianwei interrupted. “Elder Bo, how did you conclude that Han Xiao is the target?”

“As you all know, I practice a certain Cultivation Technique that has heightened my auditory senses multiple-folds beyond even those of magical beasts. During the day, I attended Class X and witnessed Han Xiao beheading Prince Yue Zhi of the Yue Nation,” Elder Bo responded.

“What!?” Everyone was shocked by his words, as they saw Han Xiao as someone they needed to remove from the academy by any means.

“That’s another matter we need to question him about. Even though it was a duel, he didn’t have the right to kill another fellow disciple here,” Elder Bo further added. “I believe the Han Royal will be alerted and come knocking on our door to question us. I suggest everyone here bring out any dirt you find on the Han—preferably on the Sixth Princess Han Xue and Seventh Prince Han Xiao. That would be useful to counter their political aggression.”

Elder Bo continued, “In light of these events, I recommend that we tighten security within the academy, especially around the Outer Court. We must also investigate any possible connections between the alliance and our members. There may be traitors among us.”

The assembly fell silent, each member absorbing the weight of the situation. Headmaster Wang nodded. “Your recommendation is noted, Elder Bo. We must act swiftly and decisively. Our priority is to ensure the safety of our students and uncover the full extent of this conspiracy.”

As the elders and deans began to discuss potential strategies, Yi Jing and Tang Chen exchanged worried glances. They understood that the coming days would be challenging and filled with uncertainty. The academy was on high alert, and the actions they took now would determine the future of the Tianfu Sword Palace.