In another part of the region, another piece of news arrived that sent a ripple of shock through the ranks of another huge influence.
It concerned one of their most prized disciple, Fang Yuan, and the details were troubling.
"This cannot be real. Fang Yuan was defeated? His opponent merely glanced at him, and he collapsed in defeat? And now his whereabouts are unknown?" a monk exclaimed, his voice taut with disbelief and underlying worry.
His eyes darted across the room as if hoping someone could deny the report, or perhaps explain it away. Fang Yuan was a prodigy, disciplined and strong, yet the jade slip seemed to leave no room for doubt.
"It is exactly what is written on the jade slip, master," another monk replied, his tone respectful but somber.
He held the jade slip carefully, as if its delicate surface contained not just information, but the weight of their responsibility.
