Huh? Wei Jin?

High atop the Grand Beast Hall, perched upon an ornately carved terrace shrouded in clouds, a group of enigmatic figures gathered.

Each wore robes bearing the unmistakable insignia of the Grand Ethereal Sect, yet their designs subtly reflected the prestigious families they hailed from. 

The vibrant hues of Wei, Ru, Sun, Shen, and Fu Families set them apart, each pattern woven with intricate details that denoted lineage, rank, and influence.

Despite their faceless appearances, their voices carried an undeniable authority, resonating through the space like ethereal whispers that commanded reverence. 

They stood in a semicircle, each seemingly observing the bustling activity far below with an air of detachment. But their discussion was far from indifferent.

One figure, cloaked in the crimson robes of the Sun Family, stepped forward. 

"The Grand Ethereal Sect continues to shine as the apex of cultivation," they began, their tone imbued with pride. 

"Every year, the brightest talents from the Five Families converge here, elevating our legacy beyond mortal comprehension. Our trials remain unmatched, our techniques peerless. Who can rival us?"

Another, wearing the cerulean robes of the Ru Family, nodded in agreement. 

"Indeed. The Grand Ethereal Sect has become the ultimate symbol of unity among the Five Families. It is here that we groom the prodigies who will uphold our dominion for centuries to come. 

"The cultivators trained here are unparalleled—masters of the arcane arts, scholars of forbidden knowledge, and warriors who command the respect of the heavens themselves."

A third voice, emanating from the gold-trimmed robes of the Fu Family, added.

"Our influence has extended far beyond the Five Peaks. Even the lesser sects now look to us for guidance. 

"The Grand Ethereal Sect has become a beacon of civilization, an emblem of order in a world teetering on chaos. Our disciples not only dominate the battlefield but also cultivate alliances that secure prosperity for all."

The emerald-clad Shen Family representative chimed in, their voice contemplative. 

"And yet, such power must be wielded wisely. We stand as the guardians of balance, ensuring that the ambitions of the Five Families do not tip the scales toward destruction. 

"The Grand Ethereal Sect is not merely a place of cultivation; it is a crucible where discipline tempers might and wisdom shapes destiny."

A figure from the Wei Family, dressed in deep sapphire robes with silver accents, spoke next, their tone carrying a subtle edge. 

"True, but let us not forget the competition that simmers beneath our unity. The strength of the Five Families is also a product of our rivalry. 

"The Grand Ethereal Sect thrives because it serves as a stage where the best of each family strive to outshine the others. It is this very spirit that propels us forward."

The air seemed to grow heavier as the conversation deepened.

The Ru Family representative spoke again, their tone laced with a hint of pride. 

"And yet, among all the families, the Ru Family's contributions to the Grand Ethereal Sect remain unmatched. Who can compare to the precision of our techniques, the brilliance of our scholars, or the unparalleled grace of our prodigies? Even now, Ru Shaonian, the pride of our lineage, shines as one of the sect's brightest stars."

The Wei representative's posture stiffened at the mention of Ru Shaonian, though they said nothing.

The Fu representative, their voice tinged with curiosity, turned to the Wei representative. 

"Speaking of prodigies, I've heard troubling rumors about your family. Is it true that an unknown junior—a mere mortal cultivator—has caused an uproar by breaking the engagement with Ru Shaonian? A match that could have secured great power for your family?"

The Wei representative remained silent for a moment before speaking, their voice measured but cold. 

"This so-called unknown junior has done nothing but tarnish our reputation with his antics. To call him insignificant would be an insult to insignificance itself."

The Fu representative pressed on. "But that's precisely what's so baffling. Why would the talented Ru Shaonian, who has the admiration of countless disciples, even entertain the thought of associating with this... no-name cultivator?"

The faceless individual from the Wei Family, clad in their regal sapphire robes adorned with silver embroidery, merely shrugged, their tone dismissive yet slightly exasperated. 

"Our junior, Wei Jin, has always been a peculiar case. Feeling overshadowed by someone as illustrious as Ru Shaonian is not surprising. She is a once-in-a-generation prodigy, after all. 

"Any ordinary person bound to her by marriage would undoubtedly feel insignificant. Thus, he sought a divorce—not out of malice, but perhaps to find his own path. 

"Rest assured, the Wei Family will deal with this matter internally. We will ensure that such disruptions cease. He will not embarrass our family again."

The room grew tense, but it was the Ru Family representative, draped in robes of deep cerulean and gold, who spoke next, their voice calm yet carrying an air of wisdom. 

"Do not be too harsh on the younger generation. They carry the weight of our families, but they are still growing, still finding their place in this vast world. 

"To be bound to someone like Ru Shaonian, who commands respect and admiration from all corners of the sect, would be overwhelming for anyone—especially for a cultivator who has yet to make a name for himself. 

"Perhaps this Wei Jin simply sought freedom, a chance to escape the shadow cast by her brilliance."

The Ru representative paused, their tone shifting to one of reflection. 

"Let us not forget the purpose of the younger generation: to make mistakes, to learn, and to rise. If we crush their spirit with relentless expectations, how can we hope for them to surpass us? 

"Ru Shaonian's talents are unparalleled, but even she, with all her might, understands the struggles of those around her. Let us show compassion, for a great sect is built not only on strength but on understanding."

The other family representatives murmured their agreement, their faceless forms nodding in unison. 

The atmosphere, which had been tense moments ago, softened as the words of the Ru representative resonated among them.

Breaking the silence, the Wei Family representative spoke again, their voice now lighter. 

"Perhaps you are right. Harshness may not be the answer. Still, we cannot allow this to escalate further. We will address it with balance—enough to guide, but not to stifle."

The Fu Family representative, dressed in resplendent gold and black robes, nodded approvingly. "Wise words. Now, let us turn our attention to the present. What is the news from the Grand Beast Hall?"

The representatives leaned forward slightly, their collective curiosity piqued as the Shen Family representative, adorned in robes of emerald and obsidian, began to speak. 

"The Grand Beast Hall has been lively. Among the mortal cultivators, a few have shown exceptional promise. There was one in particular—a blade-wielding cultivator—who caught everyone's attention. 

"Despite lacking any known background or lineage, he displayed extraordinary skill and precision, defeating a beardevil—a creature notorious for its raw power and ferocity."

The Sun Family representative, their crimson and gold robes glowing faintly under the ethereal light, interjected with a touch of excitement. 

"A beardevil? And in the mortal cultivation stage? That is no small feat! It seems the Grand Beast Hall continues to serve as a crucible, bringing forth the best from even the unlikeliest of places. Who is this saber cultivator?"

The Shen representative continued.

"He is nameless, a rogue cultivator with no affiliations. Yet his technique is flawless, his strikes calculated and deadly. His victory over the beardevil was not mere luck but the result of meticulous planning and execution. 

"The audience erupted in cheers, some even proclaiming him a rising star. It is rare to see such talent emerge without the backing of one of the Five Families."

The Wei Family representative gave a slight nod of approval. "Impressive. Such talents remind us that greatness can arise from anywhere. It is cultivators like him who keep the Grand Beast Hall relevant, drawing crowds and inspiring the younger generation to push their limits."

The Ru Family representative added, "It is a testament to the Grand Ethereal Sect's influence. Even those without lineage or resources seek to prove themselves here. This rogue saber cultivator is proof of the endless potential of cultivation, even among mortals."

The discussion continued for some time, with the faceless representatives delving into the intricacies of cultivation techniques and the importance of nurturing raw talent. However, their interest shifted when the Sun Family representative suggested, 

"Why don't we take a look ourselves? Let us observe the projection of the Grand Beast Hall and see what remarkable events are unfolding."

The others agreed, and with a simple gesture, the ethereal projection began to materialize before them. 

The shimmering image displayed the Grand Beast Hall in all its chaotic glory, the crowd roaring and the beasts roaring louder. But as the image adjusted, their faceless forms froze in collective astonishment.

What they saw left them baffled. Instead of the usual fierce battles or roaring beasts, the projection displayed something entirely unexpected. 

There stood Wei Jin, smug and shameless, surrounded by an enormous pile of Void Spirit Stones while the crowd clamored around him, demanding answers.

"Is that…" one of the faceless figures murmured.

"…Wei Jin?" another completed in disbelief.

The silence was deafening as they stared at the scene unfolding before them, struggling to process what they were witnessing.