CHAPTER 691: CHAPTER 87 - ENTERING THE HEAVENLY GATE, CLOUDS STIR IN ALL DIRECTIONS

Once the Upper Method rankings from the Merit Institute were released, the names of the top ten disciples were prominently displayed. Among them, Zhang Yan’s name stood out the most, as he was the only cultivator in thousands of years to earn a place on this list without being a disciple of a Cave Heaven True Master.

Zhang Yan’s achievement naturally sparked imaginations among the lower-level disciples within the sect. They couldn’t help but wonder—if they devoted themselves to arduous cultivation, might they one day follow in Brother Zhang’s footsteps and make it onto this prestigious list?

Even some disciples from noble families seemed to see a path forward. Rather than treating Zhang Yan’s background with disdain, his accomplishment incited astonishment and reverence. This news spread swiftly beyond the mountain gates, ultimately reaching several other great sects.

In Yaojing Tower within the Beichen Sect, a graceful, jade-like young man was currently maneuvering Elixir Evil and tempering his Qi Mechanism. He was none other than Jiang Lin, the Sect Leader of the Beichen Sect.

An hour later, he slowly concluded his cultivation and walked unhurriedly out of the hall. As he stepped outside, he suddenly heard a report from a child waiting at the gate: "Sect Leader True Master, Elder Yan requests to see you and has been waiting outside for quite some time."

Jiang Sect Leader froze momentarily, then hurriedly said, "Quickly invite him in—no, I’ll go greet him personally."

Given that the only Nascent Soul True Master of the sect had come to visit, he dared not display arrogance. After adjusting his hair ornament, he stepped forward to greet his guest with a smile, saying, "So it’s Master Yan who has come."

He examined Master Yan carefully and exclaimed in surprise, "Master, you seem delighted today—could it be that you bring good news for your humble nephew?"

Jiang Lin, always humorous and unpretentious, maintained a casual demeanor even as Sect Leader. The Beichen Sect itself lacked the rigid formalities and etiquette common to larger sects, allowing for relaxed conversation.

Elder Yan laughed softly and offered a courteous gesture. After both men had taken their seats, he stroked his beard and said, "I have come to inform Sect Leader of an important matter—does the Sect Leader still recall Zhang Yan, the distinguished pupil of the Mingcang Sect who once visited here?"

Jiang Lin’s expression shifted slightly as he smiled and replied, "How could I forget? Though I was indisposed with pressing matters at the time and regrettably missed meeting him, might the good news you mention be related to him?"

Although he spoke politely, inwardly he was dismissive.

Though the Mingcang Sect was a Great Xuanmen Sect, Zhang Yan was merely an ordinary True Disciple—not even a Cave Heaven True Master’s direct heir. Why would someone of his rank warrant attention?

After all, Jiang Lin was a Sect Leader himself. Elder Yan, a Nascent Soul True Master, had already shown due respect by meeting Zhang Yan previously. Was there truly a need for him to personally extend courtesies?

Elder Yan maintained his faint smile and replied, "To inform the Sect Leader, I’ve just received news. Zhang Yan is now ranked among the top ten disciples within the Mingcang Sect."

Jiang Lin initially showed little reaction and was about to sip his tea. However, upon hearing this, he abruptly froze, suddenly rising to his feet in astonishment. "Is this true?" he asked.

Elder Yan stood as well and affirmed, "It is absolutely certain."

Jiang Lin carefully set his tea cup aside and paced around the room with hands folded behind his back, his face reflecting an air of deep contemplation.

He was fully aware of the significance tied to a position among the top ten disciples of the Mingcang Sect. Those who held such a rank often ascended to become Upper Elders of Du Zhen Hall in the future. Commanding great respect and influence, their alignment even slightly toward the Beichen Sect could bring enormous benefits.

However, Jiang Lin knew relatively little about Zhang Yan and relied entirely on information provided by Elder Yan. Thus, he couldn’t help but remain skeptical.

After all, Zhang Yan was not a Cave Heaven True Master’s disciple, meaning his foundation was inherently weaker. If the Beichen Sect invested substantial efforts into cultivating ties with him, what would happen if he were later unseated?

That scenario was minor compared to a potentially troubling outcome—if mishandling this matter angered a certain faction within the Mingcang Sect, the Beichen Sect, being a smaller sect, would be utterly incapable of withstanding their wrath. As Sect Leader, Jiang Lin was obligated to carefully weigh the risks on behalf of all his disciples.

Elder Yan, well aware of Jiang Lin’s concerns, refrained from interrupting his thoughts. He simply sat quietly to the side, letting the Sect Leader deliberate.

Roughly a tea-time later, Jiang Lin returned his attention, clasped his hands respectfully, and apologized, "Elder Yan, I’ve kept you waiting."

Elder Yan gravely replied, "Sect Leader, this matter is of great importance. Taking careful consideration is only right."

Jiang Lin resumed his seat, his expression now firm, and said decisively, "I’ve made up my mind—to send someone to deliver congratulations. Elder Yan, what gift would you recommend we extend?"

Having meticulously weighed his options, Jiang Lin resolved to proceed with the gesture.

This decision was not born of absolute confidence in Zhang Yan. Rather, it was inspired by his trust in Elder Yan’s judgment.

Elder Yan had always been farsighted and bold in action, yet never reckless—qualities far surpassing Jiang Lin’s own. Were it not for Elder Yan’s dedication to cultivation, the Sect Leader position would have belonged to him. Thus, Jiang Lin was willing to take the gamble.