The winter afternoon was exceptionally quiet inside the main bedroom. Soft, golden sunlight filtered through the windows, casting long, peaceful light across the floor.
Su Qinglan stood in front of the large, bamboo wardrobe, her hands moving rhythmically as she folded the freshly washed winter clothes.
The scent of dried lavender and clean hides filled her senses. With the spiritual plants temporarily taken care of and her children safely playing in the other room, she finally had a quiet moment to organise the household's heavy winter cloaks and thick blankets.
Click.
The sudden, distinct sound of the heavy wooden door opening broke the silence of the room.
Su Qinglan didn't turn around immediately, assuming it was one of the cubs or perhaps Shi Feng coming in to help her carry the heavier linens. But before she could even speak, another sharp sound echoed through the quiet space.
Thud. Click.
The door wasn't just closed; it was explicitly locked from the inside.
