"Master Ethan, your tranquil nature is deeply admirable, but let us be entirely pragmatic," the Vice Sect Leader said, a knowing, highly cooperative smile spreading across his weathered face. "The Central Sect Headquarters will not allow a grand talent such as yours to be stifled by mundane bureaucracy. Effective the moment you arrive, you will not be registered as a disciple or a subordinate. The High Council will bypass all standard training protocols and formally ascend you straight to the rank of full Sect Elder! Someone wielding your divine authority over life and death has zero logistical need to play the role of a common apprentice."
He leaned forward, his deep voice carrying an binding guarantee.
