Shi Huang's words left Zhou Chuan extremely troubled. After suggesting that he become a Direct Disciple, the sect master had advised him to act with a high profile, build up his prestige, and make others tremble just at the mention of his name. Yet Zhou Chuan felt that as a man of letters, he ought rather to keep a low profile and remember that silence is golden.
Once a Direct Disciple, his status would change; he could no longer think only of himself, but must also safeguard the reputation of both the sect and the sect master. Therefore, he could understand the sect master's philosophy: since he was already a notable figure in the sect, he had to establish his prestige. Nevertheless, Zhou Chuan believed in his own uniqueness—if he exposed too much, he would become an object of covetousness and schemes.
"Forget it, nothing is absolute, so I might as well just let nature take its course! For now, I am already a Direct Disciple. As long as I break into the Hundred Pride Ranking, I won't be constrained by ticket tasks, and I'll be able to go out with peace of mind in the future. Besides, Master also wants me to make the list and become famous to prove his judgment was right. Both out of reason and emotion, I have to strive for it."
Chapter 430