One of the most intriguing topological features of open systems is that they exhibit exceptional point (EP) singularities. Apart from the widely explored second-order EPs (EP2s), the exploration of higher-order EPs in any system requires more complex topology, which is still a challenge. Here, we encounter a third-order EP (EP3) with the simultaneous presence of multiple second-order EPs in a simple fabrication feasible gain-loss assisted trilayer optical microcavity. Using the scattering-matrix formalism, we study the simultaneous interactions between three successive coupled states via avoided-resonance-crossing (ARC) phenomena, and we identify two EP2s near two ARC regimes. Such an occurrence of two EP2s inside a closed two-dimensional parametric space associated with an unbalanced gain-loss profile leads to the functionality of a cube-root branch point, i.e., an EP3. Following an adiabatic variation of two control parameters around the embedded EP3 in the presence of two identified EP2s, we present a robust successive-state-conversion mechanism among three coupled states. The proposed scheme indeed opens up a unique platform to manipulate light in integrated photonic devices. © 2020 American Physical Society.