Back at Amaterasu Palace, Neji dismissed his attendants and entered the secret chamber made of Silent Blackstone alone. The spatial door closed soundlessly, sealing off all energy and perception from the outside world. He sat cross-legged, but did not begin cultivating immediately. Instead, he reviewed every detail of his audience with Prince Longshi, as well as the information Senjumaru had previously reported.
Longshi's attitude had seemed like a mix of reward and intimidation, but it was actually cold and utilitarian. Retaining his rank was a gesture of respect toward an old subordinate, and also recognition for the intelligence he had brought back regarding Kaguya's betrayal. Reducing his benefits was punishment. Sending him to the Frontier Starfield was standard "exile utilization"—he would risk his life in a dangerous land. If he succeeded, he could expand territory for the faction; if he died, it would be no great loss, and they could also use the opportunity to probe his true capabilities. That prince probably did not fully believe his explanation for the mission's failure. At the very least, he doubted the claim that the Divine Tree had been destroyed by the backlash of planetary will. But with manpower needed at the moment, an old subordinate familiar with the Divine Tree seeding process, reasonably strong, and eager to redeem himself was still a useful tool.
"A tool..." A cold curve touched Neji's lips. Being regarded as a tool was certainly unpleasant, but it also meant that, in the short term, as long as he demonstrated sufficient "use value" and "controllability," Longshi's faction would provide basic protection and mission resources. That would give him a chance to establish himself in the Frontier Starfield and accumulate strength.
His thoughts returned to Senjumaru's report on the clan's internal factions. The conflict between the Radical Faction represented