The estate was quieter now.
Not empty—no, far from it. But with five people gone, the air felt… clearer. The spaces that once concealed whispered rumors and veiled discontent had been purged, leaving behind a steadiness that hadn't existed before.
Still, despite the losses, Nanshan was far from abandoned. Certain spaces remained lively, particularly Blooming and Budding Courtyard, where the presence of children ensured there was never a true moment of silence.
The remaining staff, though few, formed a solid foundation.
A single family had stayed behind—a mother, father, and son who had been sold into servitude by their own relatives. They were hardworking, diligent, and surprisingly adaptable.
The mother was the primary cook for the main kitchen. Before today, she had worked alongside one of the women who was now possibly miles away, en route to the neighboring country. It had always been heavy work, feeding the servants, guards, and Xuan Jian's men stationed at the estate.
