Li Meng was moving with a small group of Thunder Academy disciples who managed to gather together after entering the island. He initially wanted to separate from the group in search of treasure, but his master specifically asked him to take care of his senior brothers.
....
"I know that you have been hiding your true strength. Your body cultivation alone can match your brothers, and there is so much mystery regarding you. The energy arts you have managed to cultivate are beyond exceptional. That being added to the natural body you possess, and your actual energy cultivation makes you one of the most potent forces in the Qi Emperor realm. Tell me, if I put you against Thunder Child right now, how much confidence do you possess to fight against him?" Old Man Qiong asked.
"What are you talking about, master? I am a novice Qi Emperor who broke through the Qi Emperor level due to coincidence and chance." Li Meng said.