Xiao Lin was actually rather surprised to hear Yan Suxin say that.
After all, her offer truly was brimming with sincerity.
She was essentially surrendering half the authority of the Sound Valley Master!
Clearly, Sound Valley intended to bind Xiao Lin and his grandson Xiao Ding to them through mutual interests, to keep the pair from leaving.
But would Xiao Lin accept?
The answer hardly needed any elaboration.
"Valley Master Yan, to be honest, the benefits you offered really did tempt me for a moment! Unfortunately, my ambitions lie elsewhere. I'm afraid I must decline your kindness."
A smile remained on Xiao Lin's face throughout.
Hearing Xiao Yan say this, Yan Suxin's eyes, visible above her light white veil, showed a trace of disappointment.
What could she say?
In truth, she had already guessed this would be the outcome before making her offer.
Still, no matter what, she had wanted to try a method that would avoid a confrontation.
Now that Xiao Lin had refused, there was nothing else she could do.
Only one final path remained for Sound Valley!
"Is that so? What a shame."
Yan Suxin spoke helplessly.
"No, I don't think it's a shame at all."
Xiao Lin, on the other hand, looked entirely unconcerned.
"Palace Master Lin Xiao, what I mean by a shame is that we may have to resort to somewhat rougher methods to forcibly keep you and your grandson here in Sound Valley."
Yan Suxin's tone was resolute.
And as her words fell, the Sound Valley elders and disciples behind her all wore expressions of grim determination.
Clearly, Sound Valley was remarkably united, from its ordinary disciples all the way up to its elders!
For after Yan Suxin finished speaking, the elders and disciples behind her had already assumed their fighting stances.
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