The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection

In truth, Zayn was lying. The wooden craving indeed blocked sound, but if someone held its paired counterpart, they could eavesdrop on the conversation. And that counterpart was in the hands of Josiah, the elderly man accompanying him.

"The fact that His Majesty values my talents is a great honor," Felix said with a polite smile. "However, I've always lived freely, and it was Harmony Clinic that nurtured me. I'm afraid I cannot accept the offer."

Zayn was inwardly pleased this wasn't even something he had to lead Felix into saying.

"You don't have to worry about Harmony Clinic," Zayn continued smoothly. "We can persuade Mr. Whitwell. As long as you're willing, it's not an obstacle.

"Felix, let me be honest with you-no matter how much you've seen or heard about the power of the royal family, it's just the tip of the iceberg. If you join us, you'll receive the highest level of treatment-even above us princes.

"And surely, you've heard of the Empress? The strongest force in Martial City- her power isn't something to joke about. You know Andre the Bear? Ask him what happened when he once offended her. He survived only because she was in a good mood that day."

A tempting offer, followed by a veiled threat-Zayn was certainly skilled in negotiation.

Felix pretended to think deeply before responding.

"I appreciate the royal family's generosity, but I need to discuss this with my mentor. This isn't a decision I can make lightly."

Zayn knew that was just an excuse. Deborah's reputation was well known-the royal family had tried to recruit her multiple times in the past, all ending in failure.

relay your exact

understood that his so-called consideration wouldn't fool them. The royal family would soon reveal its true colors, and he had to prepare for what

broad daylight, in front of so many people in Martial City? Wouldn't that

his thoughts, Felix went

now produce a batch of Ascension Pills in just half a

speed was already remarkable

the day consuming pills to strengthen himself, progressing on

before the royal family took action,

full speed. The Emperor, the Princes,

Majesty, I believe Felix is merely stalling

"He refuses to appreciate kindness. In that case, what use is keeping

darkened with fury, and he turned to the

great threat to our royal family. In the

there are 18 late-stage Transcendent

guarding him at Trirockhe

other witnesses, we ask that you personally

serve as

warning to others."