Villain: I transmigrated with Mind Control Powers

Chapter 164: Chapter 164: Black Eye

The moon hung low over the Holy Sect, casting a silvery glow across the stone structures. The cool night air whispered through the corridors, carrying with it the faint scent of incense and the distant murmurs of disciples deep in meditation. In the secluded confines of his chamber, Aric sat in quiet contemplation. The soft flicker of candlelight danced across his sharp features, casting elongated shadows that seemed to mirror the depth of his thoughts.

Ever since his return from the forest with Mei Xian and Murong Wei, Aric's mind had been a whirlwind of plans. The events of the past weeks had solidified his position within the sect, but he knew that true power required more than individual strength—it required influence, information, and control. But Aric was playing a longer game.

He gazed out the window, his eyes reflecting the shimmering stars. "Strength alone is not enough," he mused aloud. "Even the mightiest cultivator can be undone by secrets unknown. To ascend beyond all others, I must know everything."

He needed eyes and ears everywhere. A network that could feed him the secrets of not just the Holy Sect but also rival factions and even the elusive upper realms. The idea had taken root—a covert organization operating in the shadows, loyal only to him. An invisible force that would tip the scales in his favor.

He would call it

Black Eye

.

As dawn broke, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold, Aric sent discreet messages summoning Mei Xian, Murong Wei, and Yun Luxi to his chamber. Each had proven their unwavering loyalty, bound to him by a mix of genuine affection and the subtle threads of his mind control abilities. They were not just his allies but extensions of his will.

Mei Xian arrived first, her graceful movements barely disturbing the air. She wore a simple white robe, her long black hair cascading over her shoulders. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she entered. "Adolf," she greeted softly, using the name he had adopted within the sect.

"Mei Xian," he replied, a rare softness touching his features. "Please, have a seat."

Murong Wei entered moments later, her demeanor calm yet alert. Dressed in a deep blue tunic, she carried herself with the confidence of a seasoned warrior. "You called for us, Senior Brother?" she asked, inclining her head respectfully.

"Indeed. We await one more."

Soon after, Yun Luxi slipped into the room. With her sharp eyes and ever-present smirk, she was both alluring and dangerous. "Good morning," she purred, leaning casually against the wall. "This must be important for such an early gathering."

Aric surveyed them, his expression turning serious. "Thank you all for coming," he began, his voice low but commanding. "I've been considering our position within the sect and the challenges we face. While our personal strength grows, we are limited by what we know—and what we don't."

Mei Xian nodded, her eyes reflecting a fierce devotion. "What do you propose, Adolf?"

He leaned forward, steepling his fingers. "We will establish a covert network within the Holy Sect and beyond. A group of loyal individuals who will serve as our eyes and ears. With their help, we can anticipate the moves of our enemies and seize opportunities before others even know they exist."

Murong Wei exchanged a glance with Yun Luxi. "A spy network?" she asked, her tone thoughtful. "Ambitious, but the sect is vigilant. How do we recruit without drawing suspicion?"

Yun Luxi raised an eyebrow, a sly smile playing on her lips. "And more importantly, how do we ensure their loyalty?"

Aric's gaze sharpened. "The sect is currently recruiting new disciples. Fresh faces, eager to prove themselves—ripe for influence. We will begin with them. Offer them gifts to win their favor, and then ensure their loyalty through... subtle means."

Murong Wei tilted her head, a hint of concern in her eyes. "Subtle means?"

He met her gaze steadily. "I have developed elixirs—potent pills that can enhance one's cultivation temporarily. But they also contain a special ingredient that makes the recipient more... amenable to suggestion."

Yun Luxi chuckled softly. "Mind control through alchemy. Clever."

She looked into his eyes, finding reassurance there. "I trust you," she whispered. "If you believe this is the right path, then I will support you."

Murong Wei crossed her arms. "Gaining their loyalty is one thing, but maintaining secrecy is another. The elders are not fools."

Aric nodded. "Which is why we must proceed carefully. Only select those who are overlooked by the sect—those who feel undervalued or marginalized. They will be more receptive to our approach."

Yun Luxi tapped her chin thoughtfully. "I can think of a few candidates already. Disciples who have talent but lack the right connections."

"Excellent," Aric replied. "We will begin preparations immediately."

Over the next few days, the sect buzzed with the excitement of new recruits. Young cultivators from all corners of the realm arrived, their eyes filled with hope and determination. The recruitment trials were rigorous, designed to test both physical prowess and spiritual aptitude.

Aric observed the trials from a distance, his keen eyes assessing each candidate. Beside him, Mei Xian and Murong Wei took notes, marking those who fit their criteria.

"That one," Murong Wei pointed discreetly to a young man deftly wielding a spear. "Li Wei. From a minor clan. Exceptional skill but lacks backing."

Mei Xian nodded. "And the girl over there—Xiao Ning. Quick reflexes, sharp mind. She nearly beat one of the senior disciples in the strategy test."

Aric smiled faintly. "They'll do nicely."

Yun Luxi approached, her robes fluttering gently in the breeze. "I've prepared the elixirs," she said softly, handing Aric a small jade box. "They're infused with a blend of calming herbs and with the elixirs you prepared."

That evening, Mei Xian and Murong Wei made their way to the courtyard where the new disciples were settling in. Lanterns cast a warm glow over the area, and the air was filled with the hum of conversation.

They approached Li Wei, who was practicing his spear forms alone under a cherry blossom tree. His movements were precise but carried a hint of frustration.

"You're quite skilled," Mei Xian commented, causing him to start slightly.

He turned, eyes widening at the sight of the senior disciples. "Senior Sisters," he stammered, bowing hastily. "I didn't see you there."

Murong Wei smiled kindly. "No need for formalities. We were impressed by your performance today."

Li Wei straightened, a flicker of pride in his eyes. "Thank you. I strive to improve."

Mei Xian held out a small silk pouch. "We'd like to offer you a gift—a token to welcome you to the sect. It's a Spirit Fortification Pill. It can aid in stabilizing your foundation."

He hesitated, glancing between them. "I... I couldn't possibly accept such a valuable gift."

"Please," Murong Wei insisted. "We admire dedication and potential. Consider it an investment in the future."

After a moment, he accepted the pouch, bowing deeply. "Thank you. I am honored."

As they walked away, Mei Xian glanced back to see Li Wei examining the pill, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Do you think he'll take it?" she asked quietly.

"He will," Murong Wei replied confidently. "Ambition often outweighs caution."

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."