Aksai did not answer right away.
The Purple River Lord continued, his tone turning grim.
"Those assassins," he said. "They are not simple."
A flash of anger crossed his face.
"I have already killed three of them myself," he said. "And let me tell you, those bastards are not easy to interrogate. They would rather die than speak."
He leaned forward slightly.
"But each time," he said, "their attempts get cleaner and smarter. Also, more dangerous."
His eyes narrowed.
"Are you trying to tell me," he said slowly, "that you want to target the other four sects because you believe one or more of them have joined hands with that hidden group?"
The Purple River Lord stared at Aksai, waiting. For the first time since entering the room, there was a trace of unease in his eyes.
Aksai shook his head slowly.
"To be honest, I do not have a clear proof," he said in a calm voice. "But let us think about it for a moment."
