Ji Xiaofu wasn't the oldest; one of the nuns was the most senior student. And Ding Wenjun was older as well, which was one of the reasons why she was so jealous.
Miejue played favorites a lot, and Zhou Zhiruo was definitely her favorite after Ji Xiaofu. To be precise, she had the best ability to understand martial arts philosophy. And in terms of personality and other traits, Zhou Zhiruo had to most potential to increase Emei's reputation.
Zhu Jiuzhen didn't quite disappear - she was murdered by Yin Li after she heard the story from Zhang Wuji. The Wus did disappear though. They were captured by the Golden Flower Granny and imprisoned on her island.
I'm actually watching the 94 one right now because I heard and read comments that it is really good, best version, best yang xiao, so just decided to start watching it. So far so good... I'm actually at the part where zhu jiu zhen comes out and she seems like a nice person but I remember in other version her family was bad... can't remember remember since saw other versions very long time ago....
ToastedRossi, I didn't know Zhu jiuzhen was murdered by yin li.