The outer administration office sat at the edge of the outer quarters, a simple hall with a single front desk staffed by clerks who looked like they hadn't smiled since entering the sect. Lin Tian stepped inside and waited his turn.
When he reached the counter, the clerk looked up and examined him without warmth.
"Name," the clerk said.
"Lin Tian," he replied.
The clerk's eyes flicked to a ledger, then back.
"Purpose."
"Formal written inquiry," Lin Tian said, placing the sealed note on the counter. "For Disciple Bai Xueya."
The clerk's fingers paused above the paper.
A faint crease formed between his brows, as if annoyed that the rules had to be used properly.
He took the note anyway.
"It will be screened," the clerk said flatly.
"I understand."
"Delivery is not guaranteed."
"I understand."
The clerk slid the note into a wooden tray and stamped a small slip.
"Receipt," he said, pushing it toward Lin Tian.
Lin Tian took it and bowed slightly. "Thank you."
