Lan Wangji immediately grasps the urgency of the question. If he discovered that his own ability with a sword was somehow augmented by a force beyond his cultivation, he would be indescribably dissatisfied. He gives Gideon a curt nod and touches fingers to strings to convey the question with care.

This time, the response comes quickly, and in the form of a single note. Almost amused, but also relieved on Gideon's behalf, he says, "No."