The grand hall was in chaos. Servants whispered in hushed tones, guards stood rigid, and nobles exchanged wary glances as the second mistress was escorted out, her once serene composure shattered by the weight of the envoy's verdict. Bai Yue watched as she passed, her cold gaze locking onto Bai Yue's with a silent promise of revenge.
Bai Yue remained still, her expression unreadable, but inside, her heart pounded. She had won this battle—but the war was far from over.
Weishan stood beside her, his arms crossed, watching the scene with amusement. "I have to admit," he murmured, "I wasn't sure you could pull it off."
Bai Yue exhaled slowly, keeping her gaze forward. "Neither was I."
The envoy rose from his seat, commanding the attention of the room. "Effective immediately, Lady Bai's authority over the estate is revoked. Until further notice, this estate will be under Imperial supervision."
A ripple of murmurs spread through the crowd. Bai Yue knew this was just the beginning of the power struggle that would ensue.
Bai Rong, standing to the side with a triumphant smile, stepped forward and bowed deeply. "My lord, the Bai family is grateful for your intervention. We will cooperate fully with the Imperial Court's decisions."
Bai Yue narrowed her eyes. She's already positioning herself.
The envoy's eyes flickered toward Bai Yue. "Bai Yue, step forward."
With practiced grace, Bai Yue approached, kneeling respectfully. "Yes, my lord."
He studied her for a long moment before speaking. "You were instrumental in uncovering this treachery. However, be warned—your actions have made you enemies."
Bai Yue inclined her head. "I understand, my lord. I only seek to serve the Bai family honorably."
The envoy's lips pressed into a thin line. "See that you do. I will have further need of your assistance in the coming days."
Bai Yue bowed again, feeling the weight of the envoy's words settle on her shoulders.
As he departed, the crowd slowly dispersed, leaving Bai Yue standing in the emptying hall. Bai Rong approached, her expression smug. "You must be pleased with yourself, cousin."
Bai Yue turned to her with a polite smile. "I simply did what was necessary."
Bai Rong's eyes gleamed with something unreadable. "Yes, and now you're the family's little savior. But be careful, Bai Yue—heroes rarely live long in places like this."
Bai Yue held her gaze, her smile never faltering. "Neither do traitors."
Bai Rong's smile tightened, and she turned on her heel, disappearing down the corridor.
Weishan stepped closer, his voice low. "She's not going to make this easy for you."
Bai Yue sighed. "She never does."
Later that evening, Bai Yue sat in her chamber, the flickering candlelight casting long shadows on the walls. The victory felt hollow, and the threat of retaliation loomed over her like a specter.
Weishan poured himself a cup of tea, settling into a chair across from her. "So, what now?"
Bai Yue stared into the swirling patterns of her own cup. "Now, we stabilize the estate. Bai Rong will try to take control, and I have to stay one step ahead of her."
Weishan smirked. "You thrive on this, don't you?"
Bai Yue shot him a tired glance. "No, but I've learned how to survive it."
He studied her for a long moment before setting his cup down. "You've changed."
Bai Yue blinked, surprised by the statement. "How so?"
Weishan leaned forward slightly, his voice quieter. "When I first met you, you were cautious. Careful. Now… you're willing to take risks. You're more dangerous than you think."
Bai Yue's lips curled into a small smile. "I've had good teachers."
He chuckled softly. "I'll take that as a compliment."
Before Bai Yue could respond, Ah-Liang appeared at the door, bowing quickly. "Miss Bai Yue, there's a letter for you."
Bai Yue took the parchment and dismissed him, unfolding it carefully. Her eyes scanned the contents, her expression darkening.
"What is it?" Weishan asked, leaning closer.
Bai Yue's voice was quiet but firm. "It's from the capital. Someone powerful is watching me."
Weishan's playful demeanor faded instantly. "Then we need to be careful."
Bai Yue nodded, her mind already racing with possibilities. "Careful... and prepared."
She placed the letter aside, her resolve hardening. The second mistress may have fallen, but new threats were emerging from the shadows.
And Bai Yue intended to face them head-on.