The guest hall of the separate compound.
"Steward Lin, this is aged tea I've treasured for many years. Please have a taste and see whether it suits you." Zhang Lin took the initiative to bend down and pour Lin Yun some tea, his brows and eyes full of ingratiation.
Lin Yun sat high in the seat of honor. He lifted the tea bowl and took a light sip, then nodded. "Mm. The tea is good. Zhang Lin, you've been thoughtful."
Zhang Lin smiled. "Thanks to Steward Lin's care over the years, I've been able to achieve what I have today. Naturally, I wouldn't dare forget your kindness."
After some pleasantries, Lin Yun changed the subject. "The Plum Blossom Monster has been killing people one after another, causing an extremely bad impact on Blood Ridge Black Market. You kept your head in the face of trouble, analyzed the Plum Blossom Monster's intentions, and reported it afterward. That will greatly aid my plans going forward. Once this matter is settled, I'll report it to Incense Master Wei and request a commendation for you."
Zhang Lin was about to offer his thanks when he suddenly thought of something, and an awkward expression appeared on his face.
He had spent many years in Tiger Wolf Gate and knew full well how important merit was.
If one wanted to rise through the ranks in Tiger Wolf Gate, aside from taking part in the examinations held once every three years, there was another important path: meritorious service.
Merit was a broad category, determined by the Incense Master and submitted to the Examination Hall for review. There was plenty of room for manipulation in this area, and quite a few cases of foul play and taking credit for others' achievements.
There was another way to earn merit: