"The National Advisor wields tremendous influence in the capital, so I must feign weakness. If I were to reveal my Foundation Establishment stage cultivation, he would surely incite other high-level cultivators to move against me. Lin Junsheng wouldn't just obediently stay in the capital either," Yuan Ming said as he drained the tea from his cup in one gulp.

"You're right. Today, you slew Elder Yu of Changchun Temple, and soon the news will spread across all nations, bringing you fame, but also thoroughly offending the National Advisor's faction. What are your plans for the future?" The young emperor asked with some concern, though he didn't truly blame Yuan Ming.

"I'll be leaving soon. The world is vast; where can't I find refuge? Wandering as an unaffiliated cultivator can be quite carefree," Yuan Ming replied nonchalantly.

"It seems your trip to the Southern Border has matured you greatly. I too should seize the opportunity to travel with Loulan," the young emperor said with a hint of longing.