(Original title: From the Start, I Became the Sect Master: My Rules Are a Little Unusual)
Looking at his sect's dwindling ranks, Lin Fan laid down the rules:
1. Applicants surnamed Xiao, Ye, Shi, or Lin get priority.
2. Applicants who like talking to themselves and objects like rings get priority.
3. Applicants who have survived at least three near-death experiences and have a mysterious fiancée get priority.
4. Applicants whose engagements were broken off or whose parents have mysteriously disappeared get priority.
5. Applicants who are targeted and harassed as soon as they arrive at the mountain gate get priority.
6. Anyone with a mysterious smile at the corner of their mouth whose enemies like to cackle "Heh heh heh" is automatically made a direct disciple.
7. Anyone who has had their bones stolen and is on the brink of death is automatically made a direct disciple.
8. ...
One day, the Fifth Elder came to report: "Sect Master, wonderful news! Someone's arrived outside who had his engagement broken off, has a mysterious smile at the corner of his mouth, and likes talking to his ring! His parents are missing, too!"
"What? Hurry and bring him in. I'll take him as my... Wait, what's his name?"
"I think his surname is Tang."
"Tang?! Wait, don't bring him in. I'll personally obscure the heavenly secrets, write a letter, and have you introduce him to our rival sect..."
"Be tactful about it. Also, starting today, I'm going into seclusion. Don't call me out unless it's absolutely necessary!"
"Oh, and make sure every one of the sect's manuals is kept under lock and key. We can't let a thief get to them!"
Fifth Elder: "Huh?!"
