Sect Master Xuan Zi's presence was like a magnet, forcing all present to be focused on his movements.
He walked through the crowd of disciples at the border of the dueling field, who hurriedly made way for him. He walked past the group of Elders inside the field, ignoring their stiff faces and unfriendly eyes.
He walked until he was at the center of the field. Then, raising his head for the first time, he slowly turned on his heels and surveyed the entire gallery around him. On his raised face hung a grandfatherly smile, friendly and thoughtful.
"Everyone looks so entertained! What a pity that an accident ruined it all!"
"An accident?" Elder Shen flared up. "His death-"
"Did I allow you to talk?" Xuan Zi cut him off.
"A talented disciple, however wayward he might be, should still be cherished until he crosses a line of no return. You, Elder Shen, have failed in your duty!"
"....What?"
