Li Yun showed no delight at those words. Instead, his brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.
Wen Tiancheng seemed brimming with sincerity, offering to recruit him, shelter him, nurture him, and help him reach the Monarch Sage realm.
But Li Yun's mind was too keen. He instantly heard the chilling threat hidden beneath those words.
This offer had never been a negotiation. It was coercion in disguise.
Submit, and he could remain on Silver Fox Star under Wen Tiancheng's protection, his past offenses concealed, free to develop in peace.
Refuse, and all those benefits would vanish. Even if Wen Tiancheng did not seize him personally, experts from the Through-Ancient Dynasty would likely follow his trail here soon.
Then he would have to flee Silver Fox Star and become a fugitive, forever on the run.
But Li Yun had worked so hard to build Silver Fox Star into what it was. How could he give it up so easily?
Go ahead and threaten me, then. What of it?
Let's see whether you regret it someday.
His thoughts flashed by. Li Yun immediately let just the right amount of hesitation show, as though the opportunity ahead tempted him but he still had reservations. He spoke uncertainly.
"My lord, your favor overwhelms this junior."
"Of course I long for the protection and guidance you offer."
"But I'm stuck at the peak of the Heavenly Sage realm. Only one final barrier stands between me and the Monarch Sage realm. I have the foundation, but no supreme cultivation technique to break through."
"If you truly intend to nurture me, could you grant me a Monarch Sage-level Saint Art?"
"Once I reach the Monarch Sage realm, I'll be better able to run errands for you, my lord. Wouldn't you agree?"
Li Yun took the opening to state his