Grand Elder Huo's single eye closed for a long moment, then opened again, filled with tempered steel. He was no naïve elder clinging to morality for its own sake. He had seen too many wars, too many compromises in the face of survival.
"The orthodox path teaches restraint, but when the enemy is this insidious, we cannot afford to cling to ceremony. If the truth lies buried within this soul, then tear it out."
He placed a heavy hand on Lin Mu's shoulder. His grip was firm, filled with the weight of trust and burden both. "I trust you, Lin Mu. Do what you deem necessary. If this world is to be cleansed, then blades must be sharp, and hearts must be willing to cut deep."
Lin Mu inclined his head. His eyes shone with determination, but also a flicker of grimness. "Very well. I will begin the preparations tonight. The answers we need will be found."
