The top sixteen disciples were called to the podiums.
Elaborate, priceless artifacts were distributed.
High-grade Spirit-Weapons, ancient manuals, and spatial rings overflowing with cultivation resources were handed out to the victors. The sect masters from various peaks formally accepted new inner disciples from the outer ranks, swelling their numbers.
Through it all, the foreign elders actively avoided making eye contact with Lin Ji'an.
They handed her the ceremonial leader's token with trembling hands, practically throwing it at her chest before retreating to safety, constantly checking over their shoulders to ensure the terrifying shadow of Jiu Zui wasn't preparing to manifest and choke them out.
As the crowds finally began to disperse, the roaring cheers fading into the excited chatter of the exiting thousands, the formal facade collapsed.
Ji'an didn't linger to sign autographs for the weeping maidens.
She didn't stay to bask in the glory of her newfound status.
