The next day, Lin Feng and Lian sought out Lady Mei, determined to put an end to her deceitful campaign. They found her in the courtyard, surrounded by a group of nobles, her laughter ringing out like a bell. But the moment she noticed them approaching, her expression hardened.
"Ah, the lovebirds," Lady Mei said with a mocking tone. "What brings you here? Has Lian come to beg for forgiveness now that her true nature has been revealed?"
Lin Feng stepped forward, anger bubbling beneath the surface. "Enough, Lady Mei. Your lies are harming the kingdom and our alliances. If you have something to say, say it to our faces, not behind our backs!"
Lian added, her voice steady, "I am not a spy, nor do I have any ill intentions. I came here to build connections and promote unity. Your attempts to divide us are nothing but a reflection of your own insecurities."
The crowd around them murmured, some nodding in agreement while others appeared skeptical. Lady Mei's expression twisted with rage. "You think you can come here and question my loyalty? You don't belong here, Lian! You are an outsider!"
"I am an ally," Lian countered, her voice strong. "I will not be silenced by your hate. If you truly cared for this kingdom, you would work to build alliances rather than sowing seeds of division."