Immortality Through Array Formations Chapter 2090 Chapter 993: Odds of Victory

During the regular assembly of the three sects in Taixu Hall.

The Taixu Sect Master appeared mildly stunned once the Taia Sect Leader had concluded his remarks.

He hadn't anticipated that anyone would rush to place members into Mo Hua's group.

"This could be... somewhat unsuitable..." the Taixu Sect Master furrowed his brow while commenting.

Such a move only complicated the strategy further.

Above all, he remained uncertain about Mo Hua's plans.

Should Mo Hua's lineup already be finalized, forcing additions might provoke him.

Mo Hua operated with careful precision, backed by the Ancestor.

In his role as Sect Leader, he sometimes needed to respect Mo Hua's sentiments.

Yet the Taia Sect Leader stood firm:

"This forms my requirement. Should you accept, our Taia branch will raise no further issues, allowing you to direct the Sword Discussion Conference."

"Three sects combined; triumphs and defeats borne equally."

"How could the competition lack a representative from Taia Mountain?"

Within this group, Mo Hua posed no issue; the crux lay with Linghu Xiao.

He represented the singular "genius" across the Taixu three-sect alliance; thus, including at least one from Taia Sect in the team was essential.

They resembled insects tied to the same thread.

Their fates needed to be linked securely.

The Taixu Sect Master grew quiet. After a brief reflection, he responded deliberately, "I shall deliberate on this issue..."

"Of course."

The Taia Sect Leader refrained from pushing harder.

Affairs concerning the Sword Discussion demanded careful contemplation and wise choices.

With that, the standard assembly wrapped up.

The three groups headed back to their own peaks.

Atop Mount Chongxu, within the rear mountain's chamber.

The Chongxu Sect Leader shared all the details with Linghu Ancestor.

"The initial setup has been thrown off. Xiaoer could end up joining the event alongside the 'Formation Demon' from Taixu Gate."

Linghu Ancestor knitted his brows, "What did Xiaoer mention? Have you consulted him?"

The Chongxu Sect Leader affirmed with a nod and a heavy breath, "I did inquire, and his sole response was: he wishes to stay by Mo Hua's side."

A sharp twinge of bitterness struck Linghu Ancestor's core.

Chongxu Sect's prized "gem" had been drawn in voluntarily by Taixu Gate.

Sensing the Ancestor's inner unease, the Chongxu Sect Leader offered, "Perhaps I can find a method to convince Xiaoer to pair with our 'Chongxu' sect's own disciples."

Though this Sword Discussion Conference claimed unity among three sects, in truth, each branch vied covertly for advantage.

Provided Chongxu Sect's participants shone in the contest, the 'Chongxu' branch's standing inside Taixu Gate would rise accordingly.

As Sect Leader, despite the merger of three sects, upholding his branch's welfare and rank remained his responsibility.

The Chongxu Sect Leader went on, "...even though Xiaoer tends toward aloofness, he isn't devoid of feelings. Through logic, emotional pleas, and invoking the esteemed legacy of the 'Chongxu' lineage, he ought to consent..."

Linghu Ancestor felt a pull toward the idea.

Yet upon weighing it, he declined with a shake of his head, "Xiaoer holds pride and grand aspirations. If handled with proper freedom, he'll cherish the favor. But if coerced, regardless of gentle words, it'll breed grudge."

"Avoid seeing him merely as a youth and manipulating him like a naive one with moral ties."

"Though straightforward in thought, his instincts remain sharp."

"Deep down, he discerns genuine care."

The Chongxu Sect Leader mulled it over briefly, then agreed with a nod, "The Ancestor's words ring true."

In truth, he had no desire to play the "antagonist" himself.

His position, however, occasionally forced such deliberations.

"So for this situation..."

"We'll let it stand." Linghu Ancestor exhaled deeply, "Taixu Gate's Mo Hua serves as the Formation Leader, after all, and partnering with Xiaoer appears well-suited. Moreover..."

Linghu Ancestor paused in thought, then scowled, "This youth called 'Mo Hua' radiates shrewdness and slyness, viewed as the 'cherished prodigy' by Ancestor Xun. Likely, he holds real skills and won't hinder them..."

Lacking a personal encounter with Mo Hua, he could only infer from typical scenarios.

"True enough." the Chongxu Sect Leader affirmed.

Linghu Ancestor cast another look at the Chongxu Sect Leader and offered soft counsel:

"With the three branches now joined, focus first on collective progress."

"Once the Sect thrives, then pursue certain advantages. Should the Sect falter, what value would minor wins hold?"

The Chongxu Sect Leader understood the Ancestor's intent, bowing promptly, "The Ancestor's guidance is spot on."

Linghu Ancestor dismissed him with a light gesture.

The Chongxu Sect Leader then departed.

The chamber turned still and chilly.

Linghu Ancestor lingered seated, his expression growing ever more grave.

One concern he withheld, as voicing it might invite ill fortune.

Yet from his elevated vantage, peering ahead, he held a clear grasp inwardly.

"Should the Three Sects Union crumble, it's doubtful whether 'Rushing Void Sect' will persist at all..."

...

Meanwhile, the Taixu Sect Master sought out Mo Hua.

"Include an extra member?" Mo Hua showed mild astonishment.

"A talented youth from the Taia branch," the Taixu Sect Master explained, "The Taia Sect Leader holds you in high regard and demands you take a disciple from his group along."

The Taixu Sect Master phrased it positively to prevent any resistance from Mo Hua.

Flattered by the praise, Mo Hua's features lit up noticeably.

"What's the name?"

"Ouyang Xuan," the Taixu Sect Master answered.

"Ouyang Xuan..."

Mo Hua reflected briefly.

The name felt rather new, with no prior dealings coming to mind.

That made sense, given his limited acquaintance with Taia Sect's disciples.

Even after the Three Sects' merger, thousands of members from the three branches addressed him as "Junior Brother," yet recalling each one proved impossible.

Furthermore, numerous individuals used the title superficially, nursing quiet discontent and maintaining separation.

"Fine, I'll mentor him." Mo Hua agreed.

Respect had to be shown to the Taia Sect Leader, after all.