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Upon hearing Gu Chaoyan’s voice, the hidden guards were filled with a mixture of disappointment and renewed hope. Their eyes shimmered with anticipation.

If Gu Chaoyan could assist them, their situation would surely improve. If she couldn’t, they would have to find a solution on their own. However, Gu Chaoyan was now inquiring about their predicament.
The guards did not hold any blame toward Lingyun, who faithfully served Gu Chaoyan. They understood that a servant’s duty was to ensure the well-being of their mistress or master. They were well aware that Gu Chaoyan was unwell, and Lingyun had refrained from troubling her with this matter, knowing that her condition was deteriorating.

But now, Gu Chaoyan seemed willing to listen.

Lingyun stood by the guard’s side, silently supporting them.

In a hushed voice, mindful of the numerous guards from Snow Territory around them, Gu Chaoyan spoke, “What has happened? Why were our troops ambushed, and why are so many guards falling ill?”

“….”

One of the guards stepped forward, respectfully but urgently explaining, “Elder Miss, our troops were unexpectedly attacked by an ambush, resulting in the loss of many provisions for cold weather. We are growing increasingly cold, and a significant number of hidden guards have fallen ill, their conditions worsening. The situation is dire.”

“….”

“I have spoken with the people from Snow Territory, but they have shown no concern for our plight,” the guard continued. “Thus, we are compelled to turn to you, Elder Miss.”

“….”

“Lingyun informed us that you are not in good health, and we did not want to burden you,” the guard expressed respectfully. “However, we beseech you to speak with the City Lord of Snow Territory and request assistance. Many lives have already been lost, and we cannot afford to lose any more. Mr. Head is absent, and it is our duty to protect you.”

“…”

Furthermore, the guard disclosed another distressing fact. “Moreover, the guards from Snow Territory have been crossing the line due to their sickness. They have been insulting our maids. We have intervened so far, but we cannot continue to protect them indefinitely. While they may not be ladies of high birth, they are girls who have traveled alongside us. We are doing our utmost to shield them!”

As the truth was laid bare before Gu Chaoyan, she was taken aback by the revelation. Lingyun, too, was astounded.

They were aware that they were facing challenges, but they had not fathomed the severity of their situation. Not only had many hidden guards fallen ill, but the maids were also enduring immense suffering.

Lingyun, being a young woman herself, understood the profound impact such mistreatment would have on the girls.

Gu Chaoyan clenched her fists tightly, but her feeble state rendered her powerless. She experienced alternating sensations of cold and heat, causing her to perspire uncomfortably beneath her thick clothing, which clung to her skin.

Her weakened state prevented her from mustering any strength, and as she attempted to rise, her body failed her, and she collapsed due to her lack of stamina.

Witnessing this, Sword One was alarmed. Hastily, she rushed to Gu Chaoyan’s aid, exclaiming, “Elder Miss, allow me to investigate!”