Facing the looks from Grandmaster and Executor Sol, Lin Kun's mind raced at an unprecedented speed.
Agree to Grandmaster? That meant getting closer to Tang San and the core secrets, drastically increasing the risk of exposure. But the benefit was gaining Grandmaster's guidance and theoretical support, which would greatly help his development. Agree to Spirit Hall? Leaning against a great tree meant plenty of shade; resources would certainly not be lacking. But he would be branded by Spirit Hall from then on, possibly losing control over his future, and would most likely be required to leave Nuoding Academy. Refuse? Offend both sides? He might get expelled the next day for "stepping through the school gate with his left foot first," or "mysteriously disappear."
This was not a multiple-choice question at all. This was a deathtrap!
In that flash of lightning, a thought that seemed greedy but was actually born of utter helplessness emerged—stall! Smooth things over! Children made choices; adults pretended to want it all!
He immediately put on an expression of flattered surprise mixed with difficulty and shyness. First, he gave Grandmaster a deep bow. "It is this student's honor to contribute to Grandmaster's research! Grandmaster's knowledge is as vast as the sea, and this student has long admired it. If I have the chance to learn even a little, I will certainly give it my all!"
His words were polished. They expressed his willingness to help while emphasizing "learning," positioning himself as a student eager for knowledge and making his motives seem less obvious.
Then he turned to Executor Sol and bowed with equal respect. "Executor Sol, I am overwhelmed by your favor! Spirit Hall is the sacred ground of Soul Masters across the world. To win the appreciation of a senior from the Hall leaves this student overjoyed and unable to sleep at night!"
First, flatter him a little and satisfy his vanity.
Then his tone shifted, and he revealed an expression of deep regret and struggle. "It is only that... this student is poorly learned and weak in Soul Power. I have not even obtained my first Spirit Ring yet, and truly do not deserve the esteem of Grandmaster and Executor Sol. This student understands that whether it is theoretical research or serving Spirit Hall, both require a solid foundation. I beg Grandmaster and Executor Sol to allow me to prioritize my studies and strive to improve my strength first. Once I obtain my first Spirit Ring and lay a firm foundation, I will then heed Grandmaster's orders or take Spirit Hall's assessment, so as not to disappoint either of you!"
His words were sincere and entirely reasonable. I'm just a little rookie with First-level Spirit Power, at least publicly. I can't do anything. Wouldn't recruiting me now just waste resources? Let me become a little stronger and more useful first, then I'll serve you! Give me time to grow!
Thus, he cleverly turned an immediate and difficult choice into a promise of "delayed gratification." He neither rejected either side on the spot nor failed to secure precious time to maneuver.
Grandmaster pondered for a moment, then nodded. "Mm, you have a point. A foundation is indeed important. In that case, cultivate in peace for now and strive to obtain your first Spirit Ring as soon as possible. If you have any theoretical questions during that time, you may come ask me at any time. There is no hurry with gathering information." He approved of Lin Kun's "ambition" and "self-awareness," while also leaving an opening for future contact.
The smile on Executor Sol's face faded somewhat, but Lin Kun's reasoning was beyond reproach. He could not force a child who "loved learning," or word would spread and damage Spirit Hall's reputation. He chuckled. "Very well. It is a good thing for young people to know the importance of building a solid foundation. Then I shall look forward to Student Lin Kun's breakthrough. Take this token. Consider it a small gesture of goodwill from Spirit Hall. Should you need anything in the future, you may use it to seek assistance from any Spirit Hall branch in Nuoding City."
He tossed over a small silver token engraved with Spirit Hall's emblem. It was both a gesture of goodwill and a mark, signifying that Lin Kun had caught Spirit Hall's attention.
Lin Kun groaned inwardly, but he still had to put on an expression of tearful gratitude as he accepted the token with both hands. "Thank you, Executor Sol! This student will certainly work hard and never disappoint your expectations!"
After seeing Executor Sol off, Grandmaster gave Lin Kun a few more instructions regarding cultivation and Little White before letting him leave.
As Lin Kun walked out of Grandmaster's office, he felt as though he had fought a hard battle. His back was drenched in cold sweat.
I managed to muddle through for now... but the trouble has only been delayed. Lin Kun gripped the Spirit Hall token in his hand, and it felt like he was clutching a branding iron. Before they lose patience, I must gain enough strength to protect myself, or... find a way to break this deadlock!
Before you continue