Chapter 242

Phoebe noticed Gauge staring at her with a contemplative look. It seemed like something was on his mind. She couldn’t help but ask, “Something wrong?”

Gauge found her to be quite perceptive. After thinking for a moment, he said, “A comrade of mine sacrificed himself at the border not long ago. Before he died, he contacted us, but by the time we arrived, he was nowhere to be found. The location isn’t far from the border jade auction you’re heading to. So, I wanted to ask if you could help us find out if he’s truly dead. We just want to bring him home, dead or alive.”

His voice carried a hint of sorrow as he added, “Even if it’s just his remains, we still want to bring him back.”

When Phoebe first entered the room, she could sense that Gauge carried a certain aura—one tainted by bloodshed. Yet, his presence was filled with righteousness. There was no karmic retribution entangling him; instead, he carried merit. This meant his profession was special—he eliminated those who did evil and, in turn, protected many others. Now, hearing him mention his fallen comrade, she was able to confirm his identity.

Phoebe nodded. “No problem. When the time comes, bring along something he frequently wore—clothes or an accessory. A photo of him would also be helpful. Once we reach the place where he disappeared, I’ll use these items to assist in divination.”

Often, the peace and security people enjoy are simply because others bear the burdens in their place. Phoebe deeply respected such people.

Gauge nodded. “Alright. I’ll personally go and search. As for your payment, I will compensate you.”

Phoebe, however, simply smiled and said, “No need for payment for this kind of search. I’d like to do something for those who protect others at the cost of their own lives.”

In their line of work, diviners often revealed secrets of fate, which came with consequences. That’s why mystics were said to suffer from the Five Weaknesses and Three Deficiencies. To avoid karmic backlash, they had to accumulate good deeds. Many renowned masters, after earning money, would donate a portion to charity. Phoebe was no different. Previously, she had used the money from selling talismans to anonymously donate 2 million dollars to two medical foundations. She hoped more underprivileged patients could receive treatment. Aside from avoiding karmic consequences, she also wanted to do good after having the fortune of a second chance at life.

Gauge wasn’t lacking in money. As long as he could find his comrade or his remains, he was willing to pay any price. But Phoebe’s words made him respect her even more. He looked at her sincerely and said, “Thank you. I really appreciate it.” He had just returned from a mission and had over a month of rest—just enough time to personally go to the border.

Once they finished talking, Emmett turned to Phoebe and asked, “Phoebe, now that Remy isn’t wearing that ring anymore, does that mean the Yin energy is gone? Will he stop being unlucky?”

Phoebe replied, “Even if you hadn’t asked, I was going to bring it up. Though he’s no longer wearing the ring, a considerable amount of Yin energy has already seeped into his body. So, he will still have bad luck. The difference is, it won’t be life-threatening this time.”

Emmett asked again, “Is there a way to get rid of it?”

Phoebe nodded. “I can make him a custom protection talisman. It won’t just expel the Yin energy from his body but will also bring him peace and safety. However, it will only be effective for three months. And each talisman costs 1.5 million dollars. It’s up to you whether you want to buy it?”

For talismans crafted through energy tracking, Phoebe had set a standard price of 1.5 million dollars per piece. Whoever wanted one could buy it. If they thought it was too expensive, she wouldn’t force them. As for fegular protection talismans, those were much more affordable.

The Vaughans didn’t even hesitate. In unison, they said, “We’ll take it.” If it could dispel Yin energy and ensure safety, 1.5 million dollars was a reasonable price.

Phoebe nodded. “Alright, I’ll draw it for Mr. Vaughan now.” She captured a trace of Remy’s energy and crafted a protection talisman. After folding it, she threaded it with a red string and handed it to Remy.

“This healing water–infused talisman is fire–resistant. Keep it with you for three months, and all the Yin energy in your body will be expelled. Your bad luck will also fade. However, the fortune you previously had—thanks to your ancestors’ protection—is gone for good. Moving forward, you won’t be as lucky as before, but you also won’t face constant obstacles.”

Remy smiled. “I’m just grateful to be alive. If I’m lucky, so be it. If not, it’s fate.”

Phoebe appreciated his mindset and nodded with a smile. “Contentment leads to happiness.”

Remy, still concerned about Emmett’s safety, asked, “Can this kind of talisman be used for protection even if someone doesn’t have Yin energy?”

Phoebe nodded. “Yes, it can shield the wearer from one major crisis and three minor ones.”

Remy said, “Then please make one for Emmett as well.”

Emmett had the same thought and said, “Yeah, I’d like to buy one too.”

Phoebe smiled. “Of course.” Another 1.5 million dollars—she certainly wasn’t going to refuse. She crafted another talisman for Emmett and handed it to him. Emmett took the talisman and, like Remy, wore it around his neck. Whether it was the talisman’s power or just psychological, he immediately felt a newfound sense of security.

After some thought, he asked, “Phoebe, is there a way to make a talisman last longer? We’re willing to pay extra.”

Phoebe shook her head. “This type of protection talisman only lasts three months. However, if you carve one from emerald, it will last indefinitely—until it absorbs a disaster and shatters. That’s why I plan to collect some emeralds during the border jade auction to craft emerald protection talismans.”

Emmett was thrilled. “Then can I pre-order a few emerald talismans from you?”

Phoebe didn’t agree right away. “We’ll see when the time comes. I won’t be selling too many to any single person.” She wasn’t planning to let anyone hoard them.

Emmett didn’t seem disappointed. “Alright.” Having the opportunity to buy even one was already good enough.

Maddox’s eyes lit up. “Pheebs, if you manage to make some emerald talismans, I’d love to buy a few too.” He had full confidence in Phoebe’s craftsmanship and wanted to get some for his loved ones.

Phoebe nodded. “Sure.” When it came to Maddox or those close to her, she was always more generous.

They stayed in the hospital room for a while longer before Maddox drove Phoebe home. Just as she arrived, her phone chimed. Checking it, she saw a message from Leon in the group chat.

Leon: [Phoebe, I need to ask you something. Cain has been acting really weird for the past week—sleeping or eating all the time. His energy is completely drained, and he looks off. Do you think something bad is going to happen to him? Oh, and since yesterday, he’s started having bad…