Even the elders would likely become more vigilant than usual.
Most importantly, Grey did not know the true purpose behind their visit.
A gathering of so many powerful sects was never a simple matter. Every major faction had its own ambitions, interests, and schemes. Whenever numerous powerful organizations gathered in one place, there was always something hidden beneath the surface.
It was only natural for people to feel nervous.
"I also heard that some of the sects will be bringing their younger generations to display their talents," Violet continued. "If I had to make a guess, I’d say they’re planning to establish influence over Sky Mist City."
She took another bite from her apple before continuing.
"Maybe they’ll attempt to turn Sky Mist into a subordinate sect. Or perhaps they’ll recruit promising disciples directly into their own factions."
"Promising disciples..."
Grey’s eyes narrowed slightly.
The concept of recruiting talents was not unfamiliar to him, but it still surprised him somewhat.
As far as he knew, Sky Mist City did not possess any particularly famous geniuses.
At least, none that were publicly known.
The only person who truly came to mind was Caster.
However, after his banishment, discussions regarding him had gradually disappeared. Most disciples rarely mentioned his name anymore.
Grey had long since realized that cultivators were quick to worship success and equally quick to forget those who disappeared.
"What?"
Violet suddenly stared at him with exaggerated disbelief.
"You don’t know that Sky Mist City has plenty of talented individuals?"
She dramatically clutched her chest and pretended to stagger backward as if she had just heard something shocking.
Grey remained expressionless.
Seeing his reaction, Violet immediately lost interest in her performance.
She stepped closer and lowered her voice.
"Come here."
Grey instantly became wary.
The captain’s behavior rarely led to anything good.
Nevertheless, before he could move away, Violet leaned closer and spoke in a conspiratorial whisper.
"Let me tell you a secret."
Her voice dropped so low that it was barely audible.
At the same time, she casually leaned against Grey’s shoulder.
Grey’s expression darkened.
He strongly resisted the urge to shove her away.
Fortunately, Violet seemed completely unaware of his irritation.
"Sky Mist City has a habit of hiding its trump cards," she whispered.
"The old fellows running the place are experts at pretending to be poor while sitting on mountains of treasure. They’ve spent centuries perfecting that skill."
A mischievous grin appeared on her face.
"And their disciples inherited that habit."
She gestured vaguely toward the distant sect grounds.
"Most of the truly talented people rarely show themselves. They stay hidden, cultivate quietly, and only appear when absolutely necessary."
Grey listened silently.
The more he thought about it, the more reasonable her words sounded.
The sect was far older than most people realized.
It had survived countless crises throughout its history.
There was no way an organization with such a long legacy would place all of its hopes on a handful of publicly known disciples.
Violet suddenly pointed at him.
"You’re a perfect example."
Grey raised an eyebrow.
"Me?"
"Of course you."
Violet nodded confidently.
"At your age, not even Caster had reached your level."