Lyra, though outwardly serene in the Gardens of Starlight, was far from undisturbed by Wang Jian's approach. His words, though veiled in admiration, had carried an undercurrent that resonated uncomfortably with her deeply ingrained loyalty to Altan. The 'curiosity' in his eyes, the suggestive glances, the subtle challenge to her devotion – it all painted a picture that was far from benign.
As soon as Wang Jian and his companions had left the Gardens, Lyra retreated to her private sanctum within the Celestial Nexus. Her serene façade dropped, replaced by a frown of deep concern. She reached for a delicate, crystalline talisman, pulsating with soft starlight – an emergency communication device, reserved for matters of utmost urgency involving Altan.
