Children Make Choices, I Want It All

Facing the gazes from Grandmaster and Deacon Sol, Lin Kun's mind raced at an unprecedented speed.

Accepting Grandmaster's offer meant getting closer to Tang San and the core secrets, significantly increasing the risk of exposure. However, the benefits included Grandmaster's guidance and theoretical support, which would be extremely advantageous for his own development. Accepting Spirit Hall's offer meant having a powerful backer, ensuring no lack of resources. But from then on, he'd be branded by Spirit Hall, potentially losing control of his future, and would most likely be asked to leave Nuoding Academy. Refusing both? Offending both sides? He'd probably be expelled or "accidentally disappear" the very next day for "stepping into the school with his left foot first."

This wasn't a choice at all; it was a death sentence!

In a flash, a thought emerged, appearing greedy but in reality born of utter helplessness—stall! Play for time! Only children make choices; adults want it all, at least on the surface!

His face immediately contorted into an expression of being overwhelmed with favor, mixed with difficulty and shyness. He first bowed deeply to Grandmaster: "It is my honor to assist Grandmaster with his research! Grandmaster's knowledge is as vast as the ocean, and I have long yearned to learn from you. If I have the opportunity to learn even a little, I will spare no effort!"

These words were elegantly phrased, expressing willingness to help while emphasizing "learning" and positioning himself as an eager student, thereby downplaying his own agenda.

Next, he turned to Deacon Sol, also bowing respectfully: "Deacon Sol's generous offer humbles me! Spirit Hall is the sacred land of all Spirit Masters in the world. To receive the favor of a senior from the Hall, I am incredibly excited and have lost sleep over it!"

He began with flattery to satisfy their vanity.

Then, his tone shifted, and he put on an expression of immense regret and struggle: "It's just that... I am shallow in learning and my Spirit Power is low. I haven't even acquired my first Spirit Ring yet, and I truly feel unworthy of Grandmaster's and Deacon's regard. I understand deeply that both theoretical research and serving Spirit Hall require a solid foundation. I earnestly request Grandmaster and Deacon to allow me to prioritize my studies first and work hard to improve my strength. Once I acquire my first Spirit Ring and lay a solid foundation, I will then await Grandmaster's summons or participate in Spirit Hall's assessment, so as not to disappoint both of your expectations!"

His words were sincere and logical. As a novice with only first-level Spirit Power (as outwardly displayed), who knew nothing, wouldn't it be a waste of resources to recruit him now? Once he became a bit stronger and more useful, he could then serve them! Give him some time to grow!

This cleverly turned an immediate difficult choice into a promise of "delayed gratification." He neither refused either party on the spot nor failed to buy himself valuable breathing room.

Grandmaster listened, pondered for a moment, and nodded: "Hmm, what you say has merit. A solid foundation is indeed important. Since that is the case, focus on your cultivation and strive to obtain your first Spirit Ring as soon as possible. If you have any theoretical questions during this time, you can come ask me at any time. There's no rush regarding the information gathering." He acknowledged Lin Kun's "ambition" and "self-awareness" while also leaving the door open for future contact.

The smile on Deacon Sol's face faded slightly, but Lin Kun's reasoning was impeccable. It would be difficult for him to force a child who "loved learning," as it would damage Spirit Hall's reputation. He chuckled: "Very well. It is good for young people to know the importance of building a strong foundation. Then I shall look forward to classmate Lin Kun breaking through soon. Take this token; consider it a small gesture of goodwill from Spirit Hall. If you need anything in the future, you can use this token to seek help at any Spirit Hall branch in Nuoding City."

He tossed out a small silver token, engraved with the Spirit Hall's emblem. This was both a gesture of goodwill and a mark, signifying that Lin Kun had already caught Spirit Hall's attention.

Lin Kun felt a pang of distress internally but had to maintain an expression of overwhelming gratitude, accepting the token with both hands: "Thank you, Deacon! I will certainly work hard and not disappoint your expectations!"

After Deacon Sol left, Grandmaster gave Lin Kun a few more instructions regarding cultivation and Little White before letting him go.

Walking out of Grandmaster's office, Lin Kun felt as if he had just fought a tough battle, his back drenched in cold sweat.

"Finally managed to fool them for now... but the trouble has only been postponed." Lin Kun clutched the Spirit Hall token in his hand, feeling as if he were holding a hot iron. "I must gain enough self-protection or... find a way to break this predicament before they lose patience!"