Far away in her old hometown, the morning air was crisp with the scent of pine and earth. Yichen's mother carried a small basket of food as she stepped into the temple with reverence. Her movements were respectful, but her face betrayed her unease. Her heart was heavy, her mind clouded with worry for her son.
She approached the Daoist priest and placed the basket before him with bowed head.
The priest regarded her quietly, then spoke in a calm, knowing tone. "I can see it on your face. Many questions weigh on your heart, and you've come here searching for answers."
Yichen's mother clasped her trembling hands together. "Yes… I am deeply troubled. My son, Jiang Yichen… he has been acting strangely. He talks to himself, smiles at nothing, and no matter what I do, he refuses to meet or date any girl." Her voice faltered, heavy with fear.
