Chapter 52: The Request
"So, this is where President Lin Mo lives…"
Standing outside a modest courtyard in the northern part of Lin City, Lin Langtian examined the unassuming residence. Its simplicity only deepened his respect for Lin Mo, president of the Lin City Symbol Master Guild.
He approached the gate and respectfully addressed the two guards, who looked at him with surprise. "Could you let President Lin Mo know that Lin Langtian is here to see him?"
The guards exchanged surprised glances. Lin Langtian's name was known not only in Lin City but across the Great Yan Dynasty. One of the guards respectfully nodded and retreated into the courtyard. Shortly after, he returned and said politely, "President Lin Mo will see you, Young Master Langtian. Please, follow me."
Lin Langtian nodded, following the guard into the expansive courtyard. Here, green bamboo grew in abundance, and a serene atmosphere prevailed. He also noted that the courtyard was occupied by several people, all of whom were Symbol Masters.
"So, they're already gathering people to head to Huangpu City. Looks like I came just in time…" he mused, following the guard to a small bamboo house, where they stopped.
"Please, go in."
With a nod of thanks, Lin Langtian entered. Inside, an elderly man in a red robe sat cross-legged, his eyes closed as if deep in thought. Lin Langtian sensed faint traces of spiritual energy woven throughout the room like a web—a testament to the presence of this man.
From his memory, Lin Langtian knew that Lin Mo was a high-level Spirit Symbol Master, his power comparable to that of a peak Creation Stage warrior. Lin Mo's status in both the Lin family and the Great Yan Dynasty was formidable.
"Junior Lin Langtian greets President Lin Mo."
Lin Langtian greeted him with the respect due to a high-ranking Spirit Symbol Master.
"Oh, Langtian, a rare visitor indeed," Lin Mo remarked as he slowly opened his eyes, his gaze surprisingly clear and profound, devoid of any cloudiness that might betray his age. His eyes flickered with a hint of surprise as he observed Lin Langtian, sensing a subtle yet undeniable aura of threat.
Although Lin Langtian was renowned as the Lin family's top young talent, Lin Mo had only expected him to be a promising junior. Yet, Lin Langtian's presence hinted at an inner strength Lin Mo hadn't anticipated.
"Come in and sit," Lin Mo invited him, hiding his curiosity as he assessed Lin Langtian.
Once seated, Lin Mo chuckled, "I assume there's a reason for your visit today?"
"Yes, President Lin Mo. I have a favor to ask," Lin Langtian replied with a respectful smile.
"Oh? A matter important enough to bring you here in person?" Lin Mo's expression grew serious, and he shook his head lightly. "If it concerns matters of the Lin family, I'm afraid I must decline. As President of the Symbol Master Guild, I do not involve myself in clan affairs."
Lin Mo assumed Lin Langtian was here for clan-related matters, as he himself preferred to avoid the inner disputes of the Lin family. Compared to those political struggles, the peace of his simple residence held far greater appeal.
Langtian blinked, then chuckled. "President Lin Mo, there's been a misunderstanding. My focus is on the martial path, and my goal is to go beyond the Great Yan Dynasty. I'm not interested in clan power struggles. I came here with a personal request, and it shouldn't be too much trouble for you."
"To go beyond the Great Yan Dynasty…" Lin Mo was taken aback. As a high-level Spirit Symbol Master, he was fully aware of the vastness of the world, of which their dynasty was but a mere grain of sand.
"It appears our Lin family has truly produced a prodigy," Lin Mo remarked, clearly impressed. "Well then, Langtian, what is it you seek? If it's within my power, I'll gladly lend a hand."
Lin Mo's impression of Lin Langtian had shifted. Though the young man was known for his pride, today he appeared composed and humble. There was, however, a latent intensity beneath his calm demeanor—like a beast waiting to strike.
With Lin Mo's encouragement, Lin Langtian spoke without delay. "President Lin Mo, I've heard the Lin City Symbol Master Guild will soon compete in a Tower Battle with Huangpu City. I'd like to participate in the competition as a representative of Lin City."
"You wish to join the Tower Battle?"
Lin Mo's hand faltered as he brought a teacup to his lips. The surprise was clear on his face; he hadn't expected this request. Tea spilled onto his robe, yet he paid it no mind.
The Tower Battle was a symbolic stage for Symbol Masters, bringing together some of the most gifted young talents in the dynasty. While Lin Mo didn't know Lin Langtian very well, he was aware of the young man's reputation as the Lin family's most powerful prodigy, though it was based primarily on his prowess in elemental cultivation. Lin Langtian, as far as he knew, was unlikely to be an adept Symbol Master.
After a moment of contemplation, Lin Mo let out a sigh and shook his head. "Langtian, I won't lie to you—this Tower Battle with Huangpu City is crucial. The outcome will determine whether Lin City can reclaim our Symbol Master Tower. For that reason, I must decline your request. Perhaps you have another?"
(End of Chapter)