Gao Tianfang stared straight into Chen Shi'an's eyes. Only after six full breaths did he say gravely, "Everyone in the Earth Pill Sect who has a chance of becoming Sect Master has countless tangled ties to the various powers in Desolate Suppression City.
"The Earth Pill Sect is vital to Desolate Suppression City. It cannot fall into the hands of any faction.
"Your background is clean, and you have no ties to the other powers in the city.
"No one could be more suitable than you to become Sect Master."
Chen Shi'an fell silent briefly, then shook his head. "I appreciate your kindness, Commander-in-Chief, but I have little interest in the position of Sect Master."
Gao Tianfang raised an eyebrow. "What reservations do you have? Tell me, and I'll resolve them for you."
Chen Shi'an shook his head again. "I lack seniority and experience. I'm afraid I wouldn't be up to the task. Besides, I truly have no interest in the position of Sect Master. Please choose someone else, Commander-in-Chief."
Gao Tianfang gave a soft snort. "Jing Yuan, I'm being frank with you, yet you keep hiding things. Isn't that rather insincere?
"Would a man who takes the opportunity to pocket some silver even when buying Spirit Herbs for his sect have no interest in becoming Sect Master?"
Embarrassment appeared on Chen Shi'an's face. "In that case, I'll speak frankly too.
"If I become Sect Master of the Earth Pill Sect with your help, Commander-in-Chief, I'm afraid I'd hold the title alone, with no actual authority in my hands. I'd be nothing more than your puppet on a string.
"I truly have no interest in being that sort of Sect Master."
Gao Tianfang's gaze flickered. After a moment's hesitation, he said gravely, "You can rest assured on that point. The