"Our junior disciples lack real-world combat friction," the Sect Leader continued, pacing behind his throne. "They spar in controlled environments. They lack the desperation of true, high-stakes conflict. Therefore, the council has decreed that for the next six months, we are implementing the Official Sect Martial Ranking System."
Ji'an blinked. 'Wait. Are they literally introducing a seasonal ranked ladder?!'
"All Inner Sect disciples, regardless of their peak affiliation, will be entered into a unified competitive bracket," the Sect Leader explained, waving a hand to summon a massive, glowing holographic leaderboard in the center of the hall. "Disciples will be required to complete dangerous, high-yield sect missions daily to earn merit points. Furthermore, they may formally challenge any disciple ranked above them to a duel."
The rules were laid out with bureaucratic precision. No killing. No permanent crippling. Healers on standby.
