His mind made up, Li Yun hesitated no longer.
He looked at Xu An, who stood beside him full of admiration, and spoke calmly, with a certainty that brooked no argument.
"I'll find a way to settle this trouble with the Cold Edge Hunting Team once and for all. Stay home and focus on your training. Don't go out."
Xu An froze, then hurriedly said, "Brother Lin, let me come with you! Another pair of hands could help!"
Li Yun shook his head and refused outright.
"Your cultivation is still shallow. You're only in the Martial God Realm, while I'm facing five lower-rank Sages from the Cold Edge Hunting Team. They may have other helpers, too. You wouldn't be able to help, and I'd have to hold back instead of fighting at full strength."
"A battle on the Icefield could turn fatal in an instant. I won't be able to keep you safe."
"Stay in the city and devote yourself to training. That would be the greatest help you could give me. Once I've settled everything, I'll return safely."
Xu An opened his mouth, wanting to argue, but when he saw the resolve in Li Yun's eyes and thought of his own meager strength, he swallowed his words and nodded firmly.
"All right! Brother Lin, please be careful. Take care of yourself!"
"I'll wait for you at home and focus on training. I won't go out and cause trouble."
Li Yun nodded slightly and said no more.
He turned, walked to the courtyard entrance, pushed open the wooden gate, and headed down the street at an unhurried pace.
He made no attempt to hide or evade anyone. He walked openly through the streets, straight toward the gates of Carter City.
The moment several watchers stationed at the alley mouth and