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Murong Wei added, "And we are not acting against the sect but enhancing our collective potential."

Aric nodded. "We do not seek conflict but empowerment. However, discretion is essential."

He distributed small pendants engraved with the symbol of an eye. "These will identify you as members. Keep them hidden, but know that you are part of something greater."

Over the following week, more disciples were approached and gifted elixirs. Mei Xian and Murong Wei engaged them in conversations, offering mentorship and guidance.

One evening, they arranged a small gathering under the guise of a study group. The new disciples arrived, some nervous, others curious.

Aric entered the room, his presence commanding immediate attention. "Welcome," he said warmly. "I am Adolf, though titles mean little here. Please, make yourselves comfortable."

They settled around a low table adorned with scrolls and tea. Aric began by discussing cultivation techniques, sharing insights that left them impressed.

Li Wei leaned forward. "Senior... Adolf, your understanding is profound. Why share this with us?"

Aric smiled subtly. "Because I see potential in all of you—potential that the sect may overlook. Together, we can help each other grow stronger."

Xiao Ning exchanged a glance with another disciple. "But why us?"

"Because you possess qualities that others do not," Mei Xian interjected. "Perseverance, originality, the willingness to question."

Murong Wei poured tea for the group. "The sect is vast, and not all talents are nurtured as they should be. We aim to change that."

Aric\'s gaze swept over them. "What we propose is a fellowship—a circle of trust where knowledge is shared freely, and support is unconditional."

There was a murmur of interest. The allure of belonging to a group that valued them was strong.

"Will you join us?" Yun Luxi asked, her eyes gleaming.

One by one, they nodded, expressions ranging from hopeful to determined.

With their informal group established, Aric began to introduce more structured teachings. He shared rare techniques, insights into the sect\'s inner workings, and philosophies that challenged conventional thinking.

During a secluded meeting, he unveiled the true purpose. "Our fellowship will be known as Black Eye," he declared. "A network that sees all, penetrating the shadows where others dare not tread."

Li Wei looked intrigued. "What is our goal?"

"To acquire knowledge, to protect ourselves, and to influence the course of events within and beyond the sect," Aric replied. "We will be the unseen hand that shapes destiny."

As weeks turned into months, the Black Eye grew more cohesive. The members trained together in secret, honing not just their cultivation but also skills in observation, stealth, and subtle influence.

Each day, their bond grew stronger as they began to understand one another\'s strengths and weaknesses, forging a connection that transcended mere camaraderie.

Aric made sure that each member felt valued, providing personalized guidance that highlighted their potential. He would sit down with them one-on-one, discussing their progress and offering tips to refine their skills.

Sometimes, he would simply listen, allowing the recruits to speak about their fears or doubts. It was part of the plan—making sure they saw him as more than just a leader but as someone who genuinely cared.

"Senior Brother Adolf, how do you keep your mind so focused all the time?" Xiao Ning once asked during one of these sessions.

Aric gave her a kind smile, his gaze warm. "Discipline, Xiao Ning. It\'s something that comes with time and practice. But it\'s also about having a purpose. When you know what you\'re fighting for, focus becomes a natural consequence."

Xiao Ning nodded, her eyes filled with newfound determination. "I understand, Senior Brother. I\'ll keep working on it."

One evening, after an intense training session, the group gathered around a fire in a hidden grove. The cool night air was filled with the scent of pine and earth, and the crackling fire provided warmth against the creeping chill. It was during moments like these that the group bonded the most—away from the watchful eyes of the sect, free to be themselves.

Li Wei stared into the flames, his voice filled with wonder. "I never thought I\'d find a place where I truly belong," he said, his tone uncharacteristically soft.

Xiao Ning smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the firelight. "Me neither. It\'s like we have a family here," she added, her voice tinged with emotion. The others nodded in agreement, murmuring softly among themselves.

Zhang Wei, another recruit, leaned back, looking at the canopy of trees above them. "We\'re more than just fellow disciples—we\'re a family," he echoed, his voice steady with conviction.

Mei Xian, observing from a short distance, felt a mixture of satisfaction and unease. She saw the devotion in their eyes, the way they looked at Aric. It was more than respect—it was idolization. She approached Aric, who stood at the edge of the grove, gazing up at the stars, seemingly lost in thought.

"They idolize you," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

He glanced at her, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Is that a problem?"

She hesitated, looking back at the group. The recruits were laughing softly, sharing stories, their faces illuminated by the flickering firelight. She turned back to Aric and shook her head. "No. I like it. They feel safe with you. They trust you."

He turned to face her fully, his expression serious. "Their loyalty is essential," he stated. "It\'s what will enable us to achieve our goals. They need to see me as their leader, as someone who will guide them to greatness."

Mei Xian searched his eyes, a slight frown on her face. "I think they are already loyal to you. You don\'t need to push them so hard."

He sighed softly, his gaze softening. "Indeed," he admitted, a hint of weariness in his voice. "But sometimes, the ends justify the means. True loyalty isn\'t just about respect—it\'s about making sure they will stand by us, no matter what happens."

She studied him for a moment, then allowed herself a small smile. "I trust you," she said, her voice filled with warmth.

He reached out and gently touched her cheek, his fingers brushing against her skin. "Trust me, Mei Xian. Together, we will reach heights others can only dream of. The sect, the world, even the heavens—they will all know our names."

She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes briefly. "I trust you, Adolf," she whispered, her resolve hardening. She knew that whatever path they took, she would follow him, even if it meant stepping into the darkness."

Meanwhile, during this time, Aric kept a close eye on Xu Mevan and Xu Amber. Despite the tension following the failed mission, it appeared that no major actions were being taken against anyone. The case of the Edsmith Palace had quietly subsided, and the two siblings had resumed their normal activities, training and socializing within the sect.

Aric\'s eyes narrowed as he watched them from afar. They were cautious, always sticking together, and showed no sign of breaking the status quo. They remained a potential threat, but for now, they were lying low. Aric decided that it was time to focus on other matters.

"Perhaps it\'s time," Aric thought, "to revisit the lower world. There are loose ends to tie up—protagonists whose paths could intersect with mine in the future. It\'s best to handle them now, while I still have the element of surprise."

One night, Aric gathered Mei Xian, Murong Wei, and Yun Luxi in his chamber for a private discussion.

"Our preparations are progressing well," he began. "But it\'s time to take action beyond the sect."

Yun Luxi leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "You want us to deploy our agents to the other factions?"

"Precisely," Aric confirmed. "We need to establish our presence within the Gronderia Holy Land, the Riveratia Immortal Mansion, and the Minguaine Immortal Domain. Our agents will infiltrate these factions under the guise of seeking opportunities or forging alliances."

Murong Wei tapped her fingers on the table. "And the Lei Family?"

Aric\'s expression grew serious. "I intend to visit the Lei Family myself. I need to understand their internal dynamics and assess whether they can be allies or if they pose a threat."

Mei Xian looked concerned. "Is that wise? If they discover your origins..."

He met her gaze steadily. "I\'ll take precautions. My past in the lower world isn\'t widely known here. Besides, with our network, I can stay informed of any developments."

Yun Luxi smirked. "And what of the lower world? You mentioned returning there."

"I\'ll need to return as well," Aric stated. "There are individuals whose paths may cross ours in undesirable ways. It\'s best to address potential issues before they escalate."

Murong Wei nodded thoughtfully. "We\'ll manage things here in your absence."

He smiled appreciatively. "I knew I could count on you all."

In the days that followed, Aric met individually with his key agents, providing them with specific instructions and resources for their missions.

To Chen Jian, who was to infiltrate the Lei Family, he said, "Remember, your objective is to gather information discreetly. Do not draw attention to yourself."

Chen Jian bowed. "I understand, Senior Brother. I won\'t fail you."

To Zhang Wei, assigned to the Gronderia Holy Land, he advised, "Establish connections with those in the outer circle. Offer assistance where you can—it will earn you trust."

Zhang Wei nodded. "I will do as you say."

To Xiao Ning, who would approach the Riveratia Immortal Mansion, he instructed, "Their focus on alchemy is an opportunity. Use your knowledge to gain entry."

She smiled confidently. "Leave it to me."