"Such a talented lad," the Highest Sovereign said, looking directly at the Erudite Duchess. "And loyal too. Any chance you're interested in joining our court? I'll give you the position of Truth Keeper, taking charge of all our knowledge and information."
The duchess was tempted for a second, but she immediately remembered the downside. The court cannot achieve true transcendence, which is why they went to such trouble to invade the Primordial Timeline. The Grand Dao Saint Path was wide open to her — well, at least, she was now more confident — so the duchess needed to focus on what came next: transcendence. However, how can she tactfully reject such an offer? The Highest Sovereign shouldn't be offended by a rejection, right?
"It seems you're not interested," the Highest Sovereign smiled. "It's a shame, but the offer will stand. If you ever change your mind, you can come find me."
"Thank you, your majesty," the duchess quickly replied. "Your magnanimity humbles me."
