Song Xiangdong knew very well that the only reason he was receiving so much praise was because of Lin Beichen. Without Lin Beichen’s efforts, this plan would have been completely unfeasible.
"You did say that, so my plan is like this..."
When Lin Beichen finished outlining his plan, an overwhelming silence came from the other end of the phone. Song Xiangdong sat stunned in his chair, finding it hard to believe his own ears despite having heard it himself.
"So, you intend to trigger that volcano!"
The usually composed Song Xiangdong’s voice trembled slightly. He used to think of himself as quite a daring person, but compared to Lin Beichen’s audacity, he was nothing. His own recklessness seemed childish in comparison.
"Yes, that was my original plan. I just didn’t have enough power last time. Recently, I’ve felt my control over the Fire Element becoming more fluent, so I want to test how much impact I can have on that volcano!"
Lin Beichen had fully demonstrated what it meant to say the most shocking things in the most ordinary tone. Although the safety of the people of Divine Light Country wasn’t considered, there were still many citizens of Dragon Country there.
"We can’t ignore the safety of our own compatriots."
Even though Song Xiangdong dreamed of punishing that country, upon hearing Lin Beichen’s plan, he somehow found himself speaking more considerately.
"As for ensuring the safety of our citizens and their property, that’s your concern. If it doesn’t work out, just evacuate them first."
Lin Beichen’s words were filled with unwavering determination. It was no wonder there was such a reaction, especially given some unpleasant events in Divine Light Country earlier. At that time, Lin Beichen internally vowed that when he became stronger, he would make sure that volcano became active.
"I can’t make a decision on this right now; I’ll need to discuss it with a few people."
Hearing Song Xiangdong’s words, Lin Beichen didn’t say much in response. He knew exactly who those people were. After all, to make such a big move, it was impossible to proceed without the agreement of the five elders.
However, Lin Beichen felt sure in his heart that the five elders would agree. Ten minutes later, Song Xiangdong walked out of the dedicated communication room, feeling somewhat as if he were in a dream.
Song Xiangdong hadn’t expected the five elders to agree to Lin Beichen’s request without the slightest hesitation. He had never seen them make such a quick decision before.
"Could it be that this kid really has some talent?"
Though Song Xiangdong understood Lin Beichen’s power, his comment carried a hint of jest.
Back in his office, Song Xiangdong first asked his secretary to report on the Dragon Country citizens’ situation in Divine Light Country. After confirming the number and evacuation plan, he dialed Lin Beichen’s special phone.
"You really are something, kid. Those elders agreed with your proposal."
It was impossible for Song Xiangdong to not feel a tinge of envy. But who else could achieve what Lin Beichen had accomplished? Just recalling the combat prowess Lin Beichen had demonstrated in front of him was enough to make Song Xiangdong defer to him.
"I knew they would agree. I plan to explore that volcano thoroughly in seven days. In the meantime, I’ll work on improving my control over the other elements while absorbing the Fire Element."
Lin Beichen suddenly remembered the dense forest surrounding the volcano. Using it to enhance his Wood Element power seemed appropriate.
"That’s a good idea. Do you need me to arrange for someone to assist you?"
Although Song Xiangdong was initially shocked by Lin Beichen’s plan, he regarded Lin Beichen as his protégé. Hence, in Song Xiangdong’s eyes, anything that could aid Lin Beichen mattered more than any potential harm it might cause.
"No need for your help. I can handle it by myself. However, I think you should contact Deputy General Wan to ensure the safety of Dragon Country citizens here."
Lin Beichen’s words further elevated Song Xiangdong’s opinion of him. As it is said, those in high positions worry about their people; those in distant places worry about their rulers.
Song Xiangdong believed that having such considerations and capabilities like Lin Beichen’s was truly commendable.
In the following time, Song Xiangdong and Lin Beichen discussed the subsequent actions in detail and then ended the call. Even after hanging up, Song Xiangdong remained deeply shocked by Lin Beichen’s plans.
"It seems I should contact Deputy General Wan since such matters require the cooperation of the Dragon Army!"
Song Xiangdong mumbled to himself, then picked up the internal phone and dialed Wan Guochun’s number.
The call connected, and Wan Guochun’s disgruntled voice came through. Clearly, Song Xiangdong had interrupted his inspection of soldier training results.
"This time, I have some news that will make you happy. So, I think you should come to my office."
Song Xiangdong’s playful laughter came across the phone. Wan Guochun and Song Xiangdong were close friends, so Wan Guochun knew that the more unserious Song Xiangdong sounded, the more serious the matter was.
Based on routine, if Song Xiangdong knew he was inspecting training results, he wouldn’t have him called away unless it was extremely urgent. Therefore, this call indicated its importance.
"Understood!"
Wan Guochun coldly hung up, immediately arranging for a vehicle to take him to Song Xiangdong’s office.
When Wan Guochun heard from Song Xiangdong about Lin Beichen’s plan, he, despite his extensive experience commanding the Dragon Army, was startled by the audacity of it.
"This isn’t the time for your opinion. The five elders have already agreed with Lin Beichen’s proposal. Our task is to ensure the safe return of the Dragon Country citizens!"
Song Xiangdong was really pleased with Wan Guochun’s reaction. A more composed response would have implied Song Xiangdong himself was overreacting.
"If the five elders have agreed, I have no objections. But I never thought those few stubborn youngsters would dare to defy my orders!"
Wan Guochun referred to Gale and his group, indicating that he hadn’t received any updates about Lin Beichen from them, meaning they’d intentionally distanced themselves.
"I think it’s a good thing for them. Since you separated them from the Dragon Army, don’t interfere too much. Otherwise, it would make things tough for them."
"I feel the same. If they dared to disobey my orders, it shows they’ve started to grow!"
With that, Wan Guochun burst into laughter.
Meanwhile, Lin Beichen again called Gale and his team over.
Their faces showed shock like seeing a ghost in broad daylight when they heard Lin Beichen’s upcoming plans.
"Are you serious, boss?"
Gale couldn’t contain his excitement and asked.
"Do you think I’d call you all here to joke around?"
Lin Beichen replied, pretending to be displeased.
"I have tasks for you. Take this opportunity to gather some intelligence for me."
Chapter 243 Emergency Evacuation
Chapter 244 Strong Condemnation