"Say what you will, these words sounded familiar to Ye Yun.
It was as if someone had said something similar to him before, someone who later became his Dao companion, Immortal companion, and eventually wife…
This exact line of persuasion was identical to what Xing Wu had told him on the Xuantian Continent.
Except this time, he was facing an even more powerful Creator God. Despite the seemingly harmless smile on her face,
Ye Yun felt immense pressure. He coughed lightly and asked,
'Before we discuss any conditions, I'd like to know if I have any options?'
After all, given the opponent's strength, if she could offer terms to recruit him, she could likely obliterate him with a flick of her wrist if he refused.
Many things were simply left unsaid.
To his surprise, Xue Mian smiled faintly upon hearing his question.
'Of course you have options. I have no intention of forcing you into making a choice, otherwise, I wouldn't have sent just one person.'
Ye Yun blinked, this was truly unexpected.
'What do you mean? So, I can refuse?'
He wondered, 'Could it be? I've actually encountered a powerful being who's willing to reason with me?'
Xue Mian's explanation left him at a loss for words…
She took a sip of her tea and said slowly,
'You can certainly refuse. When talent reaches your level, it's not just about being exceptionally gifted; it also encompasses the inevitability of heavenly principles.'
'Uh, what does that mean?'
Ye Yun considered himself to have good comprehension skills, but he still couldn't quite grasp her answer.
Seeing his confusion, Xue Mian paused and said, 'You can think of it this way: your ability to grow with such exceptional talent is destined. This world has decreed that you must grow.'
'You're like the protagonists in those mortal tales; no matter how great the trouble, they always seem to find an opportunity to escape danger.'
'In such circumstances, anyone who tries to act against you would essentially be playing the role of the antagonist in that story.'
'Not only would they gain nothing, but they would ultimately be defeated by the protagonist.'
She finished with a faint smile.
'If at all possible, I wouldn't force you to become an antagonist in the story.'
'Ah, this…'
For a moment, Ye Yun felt that what she said made a lot of sense.
Although upon closer reflection, it seemed a bit far-fetched, there was one point that put him at ease: she might not easily make a move against him.
At least, that much eased his tension.
Xue Mian, sitting across from him, saw that he seemed to have understood and smiled.
'So, you are free to choose whether or not to join my ranks. Whatever you desire, be it heavenly treasures or divine artifacts,'
'Or perhaps various female cultivators, I can guarantee you will be satisfied, as long as you acknowledge me as your master.'
As a Creator God and the most powerful being in this vast world, the weight of her offer was immeasurable.
Even Ye Yun was slightly tempted.
After all, in his current situation in this vast world, he was a target for everyone.
If he could truly gain the protection of the Creator God and the Piaoxue Domain, his safety would be largely assured.
And the resources he needed for future returns would be available in any quantity he desired.
It was indeed very appealing, even tempting him…
'This… let me think about it…'
Seeing his wavering resolve, Xue Mian remained composed, sitting calmly and saying slowly,
'There's no need to rush. We have plenty of time. As long as you need.'
From her demeanor and words alone, anyone from the Piaoxue Domain who had met the Star Lord would have sensed her extreme indulgence.
However, for an exceptional talent like Ye Yun, any effort was worthwhile.
Ye Yun was indeed seriously considering the offer, and joining the Piaoxue Domain even held some appeal.
The reason was simple: the impression the Star Lord Xue Mian left on him was overwhelmingly positive.
It made him feel as though joining her ranks wasn't entirely unacceptable.
But at a crucial moment, Song Ziyue's previous words echoed in his mind.
'If they want to contact you, it's highly likely they just want to use you. Don't fall for it!'
In fact, he didn't need her reminder. He wouldn't be so naive as to believe that Creators Gods were purely kind and simple beings.
The more attractive the offer, the more she likely sought to gain from him!
Of course, the most critical factor was his limited understanding of the Creator Gods.
It was highly possible he would be tricked and still be helping them count their spoils…
If that day ever came, regret would be too late.
After a long period of contemplation, he solidified his decision. Taking a deep breath, he opened his eyes and said to Xue Mian,
'I'm truly sorry, but I'm too accustomed to my freedom and don't wish to be subservient to anyone.'
As he said this, he still harbored some apprehension that she might become enraged.
However, Xue Mian truly reacted as she had stated earlier, without strong emotion.
She simply sighed and nodded,
'Is that so? Very well, I understand your thoughts.'
She sighed as if with some regret.
Seeing this, Ye Yun felt somewhat embarrassed.
'I'm truly sorry.'
'There's no need to concern yourself.'
Xue Mian smiled nonchalantly, speaking with great ease.
'It's just a failed transaction, nothing major.'
It appeared she genuinely held no resentment for his refusal.
She even kindly offered a reminder,
'Since we've met, and fate has brought us together, there's something I must inform you about.'
'Uh, please do.'
'With your talent, I am not the only one in this vast world who seeks you.'
Xue Mian raised her eyes and said slowly, 'Moreover, the Star Lords of the other Nine-Level Great Worlds are likely also searching for you and will soon find your whereabouts.'
'And among the Star Lords of those other Nine-Level Great Worlds, there are few who possess my level of self-awareness.'
'Therefore, you must be cautious. You might be approached by one of them in the future, and they may force you with their power.'
Upon hearing this, Ye Yun frowned. It seemed that day was inevitable.
Previously, he had hoped that by keeping a low profile, and given the vast distance between them, no one would know of his location.
But now, it seemed the Nine-Level Great Worlds were more formidable than he had imagined, capable of locating him remotely.
This was certainly not good news for him…"