Lu Zhen and Leng Qiu exchanged a glance, communicating secretly through voice transmission.
"That saves us the trouble of feeling our own way around," Leng Qiu transmitted. "The Royal Court is far larger than Black Mountain Main City, with far more intelligence and opportunities."
"Just what I wanted," Lu Zhen replied. "But we can't agree too readily. We need to squeeze a few benefits out of this."
Lu Zhen turned to Ji Yue and cupped his hands. "Your Highness, I am overwhelmed by your favor. But what would you have us do, and what benefits could you offer us?"
Ji Yue chuckled. This fellow certainly was blunt.
"My Heaven-Patrolling Bureau oversees all under heaven. If you two join, you can take independent command of a branch straightaway." Ji Yue looked at Lu Zhen. "You will lead, with Leng Qiu as your deputy. As for advancement, so long as you render meritorious service, the Royal Court has resources, cultivation methods, and noble titles-everything you could want."
She paused, a flicker of ambition passing through her eyes. "What's more, I intend to contend for the throne. If I succeed, you will be the ministers who helped raise the dragon to power. Becoming marquises or chancellors would be well within your reach."
"Of course," Ji Yue said, shifting her tone, "once you serve under me, you will bear my mark.
"Though I won't bind you with any soul contract, once you choose a side within this Royal Court, extricating yourselves later will be difficult."
Lu Zhen laughed inwardly.
Extricate myself?
*I came from the Great Wilderness to begin with. Once I find the Core Passage Node or get my hands on the Longevity-Extending Immortal Medicine, I can simply crush the Star-Piercing Talisman and leave. Could any mark or faction on this Primordial Ancient