The Dandy's Duchess

Chapter 38: It Turns Out Everyone Has Hidden Guards (2)

"The Hidden Lord, we..." The remaining guards looked at Mo Li. Though they had followed Consort Feng's orders, they had never truly acted against Miss Qianyue over the years. However, they had carried out many tasks against her interests, believing that Consort Feng's commands were tantamount to the Prince's orders, which they could not defy.

"Since the Miss is going to report to the Old Prince, you should wait for his judgment," Mo Li said without looking at them, then vanished in an instant.

The guards lowered their heads in despair. Given the Old Prince's favoritism toward Miss Qianyue, their good days were likely numbered.

Not far from Qianyue Pavilion, Li Yun felt a rush of satisfaction. This time, everyone in the Yun residence would know she was not to be bullied. If anyone dared to oppose her, they would have to think twice.

Just as she was reveling in her triumph, Cailian suddenly seized her arm, panic-stricken. "Miss, you must command someone to save Consort Feng from the lake! She's the daughter of General Feng and the aunt of the Crown Prince's side consort. Moreover, the influential Wen family is related to the Crown Prince's side consort, and many officials have ties to these two families. If Consort Feng were to die, it would escalate into a serious situation!"

Li Yun halted, surprised by Consort Feng's connections. But then she recalled that not just anyone could enter the Yun residence as a side consort. Furrowing her brow, she asked, "Is the lake deep?"

"Miss, you've been so focused on the Crown Prince these years. The lake is the only large body of water in the Yun residence; it's definitely deeper than a pond!" Cailian urged.

"That woman is truly detestable! I don't want to save her," Li Yun shook her head, disgusted at the thought of Consort Feng's face.

"Miss... that's not acceptable! You need to save her! Even though Consort Feng is hateful, the incident at Wangchun Tower just happened, and if she dies today, combined with yesterday's events, even Lord Jing would struggle to protect you a second time!" Cailian clutched Li Yun tightly, her face pale and her eyes red, nearly in tears.

Li Yun pondered for a moment. Annoyed, she waved her hand. "Then go call for help quickly!"

Cailian's face lit up with joy as she dashed back to summon people. Her intention was not truly to save Consort Feng but to ensure her mistress wouldn't be implicated.

Li Yun pursed her lips and continued toward the Old Prince's courtyard. Although she despised Consort Feng, a life was at stake, and she wasn't heartless enough to let someone die. Besides, it seemed this woman couldn't afford to die. Hopefully, after being rescued, she would learn her lesson. Otherwise, she shouldn't blame Li Yun for being ruthless.

Before long, Cailian returned, panting.

"What brings you back?" Li Yun asked, turning to her.

"Miss, Consort Feng's attendants have already gone to the lakeside. They should be able to rescue her soon. I was worrying for nothing," Cailian reported.

"Good! It's better to worry. You should worry more often to help me out," Li Yun nodded, smiling at her. After living so cautiously in her past life, she was determined not to let herself suffer again this time. She wanted to live more comfortably.

"Of course, as long as you don't mind my nagging," Cailian replied, but she couldn't bring herself to smile. With the eldest miss's hand still injured and Consort Feng thrown into the lake, how could she not worry about her mistress?

"You won't bother me. As long as you obediently stick by my side, as long as I have food, you'll have food too," Li Yun said, her gaze fixed on Cailian. Her smile shifted from pure warmth to something more enigmatic. She trusted people while also maintaining her guard.

Cailian, not foolish, quickly understood her mistress's meaning. She nodded earnestly and said, "Miss, don't worry. I may not have been loyal before, and we weren't close, but from now on, my life belongs to you. Aside from my grandmother, you are my only family. Ever since you spared my life from the Fourth Prince yesterday, I've made up my mind. As long as you don't abandon me, I will follow you for life."

"Foolish girl, don't say forever. That's too long. Even couples can't guarantee forever," Li Yun chuckled warmly, lightly tapping Cailian on the head. She had once thought she would live that busy life forever, only for her world to turn upside down in an instant.

Cailian shook her head seriously. "No, I believe in forever. I may not understand much or know many characters, but I believe that a lifetime exists, and people are brought together by fate. Being able to serve you is fate. I won't leave you; I promise to be by your side forever."

Li Yun felt a stir of emotion, though her face remained bright with a smile. "But what about marriage? You can't marry me! If I were a man, I could marry you, but I'm a woman!"

"I won't marry! I will serve you forever," Cailian declared firmly, shaking her head. "Miss, please don't make fun of me. Even if you were a man, I wouldn't be worthy of you. How could I marry you?"

Seeing Cailian's unusual reaction to the topic of marriage, clearly filled with distaste and pain, Li Yun realized that everyone had their own stories. Cailian's words were not just a joke; she meant it, likely due to some unresolved feelings. Patting her shoulder, Li Yun chose not to pry into her privacy and spoke gently, "Alright, if you don't want to marry, then don't. I'll support you for life."

Cailian finally smiled, sincerely saying, "You're so kind, Miss!"

"You're kind too!" Li Yun replied, her lips curving into a radiant smile.

The two chatted and laughed, momentarily forgetting the troubles of yesterday and today. Soon, they arrived at the entrance to the Old Prince's courtyard, where Yu Zhu was already waiting.

Cailian fell silent and returned to her place behind Li Yun. Li Yun greeted Yu Zhu with a friendly smile. Someone close to the Old Prince, Yu Zhu must have some skills, so it was best not to offend her.

"Greetings to Miss Qianyue!" Yu Zhu stepped forward, bowing politely before straightening. "I heard the commotion from Qianyue Pavilion yesterday but was stopped by the Old Prince. He said you're different now and wouldn't suffer. I didn't believe it until later when I heard you were injured and carried back. This morning, I was worried you wouldn't be able to handle Consort Feng, and I was preparing to go, but it seems you've come through. Not only the Old Prince, but even I am now assured you won't be bullied again."