Later that evening, the household had settled after dinner. The children had been tucked into their rooms, the small courtyard lit with faint lanterns that flickered softly in the corners. The scent of rain lingered in the air, promising an evening storm. Lin Xu was quietly finishing her tea when a soft knock echoed at her door.
"Lady Lin," a calm voice called. It was one of the younger maids, bowing slightly. "General Mo requests your presence."
Lin Xu rose gracefully. "I'll go," she said, adjusting her sleeve. She didn't need to ask why; she already knew it was Mo Ying. The house, despite its quiet charm, held shadows of power that seemed to follow her even now.
The maid nodded and led the way. Outside, the first drops of rain began to fall, misting the stone path. Soon, the soft drizzle became a steady patter, and the courtyard lanterns shimmered in the wet air. The maid hesitated, glancing nervously at the sky.
