Odds
To put matters into perspective, though eyes were focused on the Connecting Heaven Realm experts, they weren't the only geniuses the Core Region had sent.
The eighteen were split among six Clans. First there were the Core Clans – the Basteel, Xie, Vinn and Croft Clans. While the final six Connecting Heaven Realm geniuses were split amongst two Clans that had gained their favor. Though these Clans weren't as powerful as the Loom Clan, they were certainly better at currying favors.
The Lao Clan and Lucien supported the Xie Clan and the Awae Clan. The Minn Clan and Vygil supported the Basteel Clan. The Ofera Clan and Annbar supported the Vinn and Rume Clans. Finally, the remaining Croft Clan was supported by the strongest Ember Clan.