Living in this world, Hong Yuan would naturally not put on airs and prattle about romance, much less shrink back timidly when his desire had already stirred.
Hong Yuan had always been an ordinary man. Even now, as his martial prowess approached the transcendent, he would not claim to be unmoved by beauty, power, or gold and riches.
Not even immortals and buddhas could manage that.
Before lightly declaring that power was nothing but floating clouds, beauties mere white bones, and gold no better than dung, one at least had to have possessed them.
The increase in his comprehension naturally elevated his state of mind, but that meant restraint exercised as he pleased, not the absence of all desire.
Besides, if he would not even take Tao Xiyue into his bed when she was within arm's reach, how could the Tao Family devote themselves wholeheartedly to his service?
Spending his own time and effort cultivating trusted followers was too troublesome. Better to let others willingly attach themselves to him and become his confidants.
After all, if he achieved his ultimate goal and opened the [Taisui Blessed Land], his martial prowess would surely have attained transcendence into sainthood. He would naturally have no need to worry about his subordinates growing too powerful.
After bathing and changing, Hong Yuan carried Tao Xiyue back to the bedroom and tucked her in. Exhausted, she sank into a deep sleep.
Hong Yuan returned to the library feeling thoroughly refreshed.
"Young master!"
Xu Qingjing's emotions had gradually settled, but when she saw Hong Yuan and recalled her earlier bold words, a blush once again rose over her fair, delicate face.
After a graceful bow, she flusteredly carried a stack of books to a low table in the room and said with her head lowered, "Young master,