The night passed in silence, though Huo Feng's mind lingered on the black rose and the chilling note that had been delivered. He had tucked it away in his study drawer, unwilling to burden Yue Ning with its meaning just yet.
By morning, the trio set out for the ancestral mansion.
The sprawling courtyard, with its old cypresses and tiled roofs, welcomed them back with an air of age and authority.
Servants bustled about, polishing railings and arranging flower pots in preparation for Old Madam Huo's upcoming birthday celebration.
Old Madam Huo was waiting in the main hall. Her eyes brightened as soon as she spotted them.
"Come, Yue Ning, have a seat," she called out warmly, patting the spot beside her on the carved sandalwood couch.
Yue Ning blinked, slightly startled by the affection, but she smiled and walked forward obediently.
