An aloof, aged voice that only he could perceive sounded directly in the depths of his consciousness:
[Playing battle music on a zither to counter the formation, suppressing the fiendish beast's Demonic Sound... This man not only possesses Marquis Wu's bequeathed sword, but his understanding of music as a means of killing is also far beyond the ordinary.]
Li Longji's heart tightened, and he immediately responded respectfully in his thoughts: [Senior, you're awake?]
The voice fell silent for a moment, seemingly "observing" the outside world, then spoke again with a cold appraisal: [This man is worth winning over. If he sincerely agrees to assist you, he could become a powerful right hand when you cleanse the court and country and take the reins of the realm. His abilities and temperament far surpass those of anyone currently at your side.]
Joy stirred in Li Longji's heart. This was exceptionally high praise.
But before he could consider it further, the aged voice abruptly turned harsh, its chill piercing:
[However, precisely because his abilities are extraordinary, if you cannot secure him for yourself...]
[You must root him out as soon as possible, before his wings are fully grown!]
[What?]
Li Longji's mind reeled, and he nearly cried out. Forcing down his shock, he hastily argued in his thoughts: [Senior, why go that far? Mr. Lu was sent by my aunt to help me explore the Secret Realm. He has shown no hostility, and just now he even helped us...]
[Fool!]
The aged voice cut him off without mercy: [You see only that he helped you, but not who stands behind him! Princess Taiping! That ambitious aunt of yours! Today he can break the Demonic Sound for you; tomorrow he can devise strategies for your aunt against your father, against you!]
The voice grew