That Is Not My Sister But Bibi Dong?!

Qian Renxue's words sounded like she was speaking to Ye Tian, yet also like she was murmuring to herself.

"I once wished I could hold my parents' hands and run freely across a meadow.

But my father was killed by the Clear Sky Douluo before I was even born. From a young age, my mother showed me no affection—perhaps she thought my birth itself was a mistake.

The only relative I had left—my grandfather—would only tell me to cultivate diligently. The future of the Spirit Hall, he said, rested on my shoulders.

When I was too young to understand anything, those around me instilled one thing in me: only by cultivating could I become someone valuable, someone worthy of my family's expectations, someone capable of ending this chaotic world.

So I trained desperately, day in and day out, with just one goal—to grow stronger. That was my childhood.

Do you think I've never complained? Do you think I've never yearned for an ideal life?

But as I grew older, I came to understand that this continent holds millions of people who starve and die from hunger.

Countless slaves and servants live in fear, their lives hanging on the whims of their masters, one wrong word or action leading to their death.

That's why I cannot stop striving, why I must abandon my own dreams to fully devote myself to executing the Spirit Hall's will.

I must personally end the rule of the two great empires and eradicate the shackles of darkness."

After saying this, Qian Renxue let out a deep sigh. These words had been buried in her heart for far too long. Finally finding someone to confide in brought her a sense of relief.

Her captivating eyes focused intently on Ye Tian:

"Do you think I'm doing this for my own ideals?

I'm fulfilling the Spirit Hall's mission, to give countless people a chance to live the life they desire!"

Hearing this, a trace of emotion flickered across Ye Tian's face.

Although he was familiar with Qian Renxue's life story, he had never heard her heartfelt thoughts.

He had to admit that her current efforts were indeed for the betterment of countless people on the continent.

Ye Tian couldn't tell if Qian Renxue's words were entirely sincere or if there was an element of pretense.

However, in this world, actions mattered more than intentions.

Regardless of whether Qian Renxue might one day become a metaphorical dragon to be slain, her present deeds were those of a dragon-slayer—ambitious and remarkable.

At this moment, sincerity shone in Qian Renxue's eyes as she extended her hand:

"Ye Tian, your talent is unmatched through the ages. Do you really want to spend your life in mediocrity?

Join me. Let's work together to reshape this entire continent. It's a mutual accomplishment—realizing your potential and fulfilling my mission for the Spirit Hall.

Right now, I'm not only pleading on my own behalf but for the countless suffering commoners across this land.

I can see it in you—that burning passion to help them.

Without that passion, the villages around East Sea City wouldn't have doctors.

The fields wouldn't be lush with green potato plants.

The children of commoners wouldn't be attending school in East Sea Academy.

But…"

Qian Renxue's expression softened, and she placed her delicate hand on Ye Tian's shoulder.

"These strategies only work in one small East Sea City. How many commoners' lives can they truly change?

How many more people still live in extreme suffering?

It's not just East Sea City that needs you. The entire continent does.

I know there will be countless hardships, opposition, and even life-threatening risks.

But I promise you, you'll have the freedom to unleash your talents, and I'll always stand by your side—to support you, to protect you. If your life is at risk because of this, I swear I'll die before you do."

Her words were true, but something about them felt off to Ye Tian—especially the last part.

Wasn't this the kind of thing a boyfriend would say to his girlfriend in a passionate relationship?

Of course, Ye Tian could see through her intent.

Qian Renxue wasn't interested in romance; she wanted a comrade with shared goals.

Ye Tian hesitated, staring at her outstretched hand. He understood what accepting it would mean—pledging allegiance to the Spirit Hall.

Her reasoning wasn't wrong, but she likely didn't realize the conflicts behind the scenes involved powerful deities.

If either side waged a large-scale war, it would undoubtedly bring calamity to tens of millions.

For a moment, Ye Tian found himself deeply conflicted.

"This is as much as I can offer," Qian Renxue said with a calm smile. "Now, I only need your answer."

Ye Tian didn't respond immediately. Instead, he looked up and asked:

"I've learned so many of your secrets. What if I say no?"

Qian Renxue wanted to say, I trust you. After all, Ye Tian was Hu Liena's husband, practically halfway into the Spirit Hall already.

Even if he refused, there was no escaping the Spirit Hall's vast web.

However, she ultimately chose to be candid.

"Your talent is too great. Regardless of which faction learns about you, none would feel at ease. Including myself. You'll be under constant surveillance."

Hearing this, Ye Tian chuckled.

"I thought you might destroy what you can't have."

Qian Renxue remained composed:

"You could say that too."

Ye Tian: "…"

He wasn't bothered by her implicit threat.

Unless the Spirit Hall deployed all its forces, they couldn't harm him.

But due to the balance of power on the continent, they clearly couldn't.

In essence, even if he refused, he wouldn't be in any real danger.

As for surveillance, Ye Tian cared even less. If he wanted, none of their spies would ever return.

"I must admit, your ideas do appeal to me," Ye Tian said with a faint smile.

"As you saw in East Sea City, I do want to do good for this continent."

"So… you agree?" Qian Renxue's tone revealed a hint of joy and nervous anticipation.

"No," Ye Tian replied firmly.

Her words had indeed been moving, stirring him deeply.

But the disparity between idealism and reality remained.

Moreover, it was her dream—not his.

"If needed, I can offer limited help to solve certain issues.

But I have no intention of dedicating myself entirely to your cause," Ye Tian said earnestly.

(End of Chapter)

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