More Questions than Answer

"Luo Jia! What is the meaning of this?" Yue Hang demanded, his voice laced with a mix of anger and concern. His hand instinctively reached for the longsword at his side.

Luo Jia remained composed, her eyes narrowing as she scanned the room for potential threats. "Patriarch Yue, this talisman is for the young mistress's protection. Something far more dangerous than you realize is unfolding tonight."

Yue Rumei, still processing the sudden barrier, turned to her attendant. "Luo Jia, what's going on? Why—?"

Before she could finish, the talisman in Luo Jia's hand burned to ash, and the golden barrier shimmered briefly before stabilizing. "Apologies, young mistress, but I cannot explain everything right now. This barrier will shield you from immediate harm should the worst come to pass. I have a quest to protect you, please understand."

Yue Hang's brows furrowed. "You seem to know more than you're letting on, Luo Jia. Speak. What is happening?"