The princess regretted it.

The flickering candlelight illuminated the solemnity and awe within the hall. Jin An, freshly dressed, sat quietly in the main seat, her expression solemn. She wore an elegant palace dress, the hem of her skirt slightly flaring, like a blooming hibiscus. Her black hair, casually tied up with a single silk scarf, appeared gentle and soft, yet her eyes revealed a resolve and courage that dared not be underestimated.

Nanny Zhao stood respectfully beside her, head bowed slightly, holding a box containing her indenture. Hongyu, Ziyun, and Qingli stood in the hall, their expressions slightly nervous. Jin'an's gaze slowly swept over the three of them, a look of scrutiny and expectation in his eyes.

Her eyes first fell on Hongyu, who was bold, clever, full of energy and drive, good at socializing, and always able to find out a lot of news.

Jin'an's gaze shifted to Ziyun. Ziyun was intelligent, steady, and cautious, carefully considering every decision. Amidst complex court situations, Ziyun always remained calm and offered counsel to Jin'an. Her composure and intelligence reassured Jin'an.

Finally, Jin'an's gaze fell on Qingli. Qingli's eyes were gentle and kind, and she wore a faint smile that warmed his heart. Gentle and kind, she was also clever and skillful, always silently giving to Jin'an and others. Her kindness and dexterity filled Jin'an's life with warmth.

Based on Madam Zhao's observations and the covert investigations conducted by the secret guards, the three of them were currently clean and free of any suspicion. Furthermore, given their loyalty in their previous life, Jin'an had full confidence in them. In that previous life, amidst the treacherous struggles, Hongyu, Ziyun, and Qingli had always stood steadfastly by Jin'an's side, never abandoning him.

At this point, Jin An felt the need to clarify her situation to the three of them. After all, they would need her involvement in the future. Knowing the gravity of the situation was better than being blindly mistaken and victimized in her previous life. She couldn't let herself and those around her repeat the mistakes of her previous life; she had to prepare in advance.

She spoke slowly, her voice a little low: "I called you three here today because some things happened around me recently, including what happened tonight. You may have many curiosity and questions. What I want to tell you is that it was me who arranged what happened with Lanzhu tonight." Jin An paused slightly, observing the reactions of the three of them.

Hongyu and the other two looked at each other, their eyes filled with surprise and worry. They said nothing, just listened quietly as Jinan continued to speak.

Jin An closed her eyes and continued, "You may not know that tonight's drama was originally directed at me. Someone wanted to plot against me, using my identity to aid their scheme. And Lan Zhu was just a pawn they had planted!" Her voice was soft, but it struck the three of them like a hammer. Her gaze rested calmly on their faces, clearly observing the change in their expressions as she spoke her last words.

Hongyu's eyes widened in disbelief. She opened her mouth slightly, but didn't know what to say. Ziyun frowned, her eyes red as she looked at Jinan with heartache. She subconsciously clenched her fists. Qingli's face grew serious, and she bit her lip, as if thinking about something.

"I know the four of you have a deep bond, but I can't let her stay with me any longer." Jin An's voice trembled slightly, her eyes revealing a hint of helplessness and determination. "So if you think I'm too cruel, then leave now. If you want to leave, I'll have Madam Zhao give you your indentures and release you from the palace. Think about it for yourself! If you want to stay, then understand that I demand absolute loyalty." After speaking, Jin An quietly sat in the main seat, her gaze fixed on the three of them, awaiting their response.

The palace fell silent. Hongyu, Ziyun, and Qingli exchanged glances, complex expressions evident. Their eyes were a mingled tapestry of surprise, worry, and deep thought. They knew the treacherous nature of the harem all too well, having heard of and witnessed countless cruel schemes. Though Jin'an, as a princess, held a high position, seemingly unparalleled in glory, she faced numerous dangers and challenges at the center of this power struggle, forcing her to remain vigilant.

From the outset, they had served the princess, prioritizing her in everything. Over the years, they had endured the princess's ups and downs together, their fates deeply tied to hers. In their hearts, the princess's safety and happiness came before all else. However, they could never have imagined that Lanzhu, with whom they had always shared a deep bond, would betray the princess. This devastating blow was a profound one, weighing on them both disappointment and heartbreak for Lanzhu, worry about the princess's plight, and uncertainty about the future. Yet, amidst this turmoil, their resolve strengthened: no matter what, they would protect the princess and face all the hardships and dangers alongside her.

Hongyu bit her lip and broke the silence. She stepped forward and knelt. "Princess, I understand your difficulties and your decision. I will not leave you. I will always be by your side and serve you." Her voice was firm and powerful, her eyes filled with determination.

Ziyun and Qingli also knelt, agreeing with Hongyu. "Princess, we are willing to face this hardship with you and never abandon you," they said in unison.

Jin An looked at the three of them, a warm feeling welling up in her heart. She knew she hadn't misjudged them; they were trustworthy. "Well, since you've chosen to stay, let's work together. I have to tell you that the days ahead may not be as peaceful as before. You will face all sorts of unknown challenges and risks, but don't be afraid. I will do my best to protect you. Since I consider you my confidants, I won't easily put you in danger." Jin An's eyes were firm and warm, his voice steady and powerful, giving people a sense of security.

"Your Highness, I swear to follow you till death." Hongyu and the other two kowtowed without hesitation, their eyes filled with loyalty and determination. They understood the princess's difficult situation and the weight of their responsibility. In this critical moment, they were willing to face all difficulties together, never abandon her, and dedicate their all to her.

The candlelight in the hall flickered slightly, the night was dark, and the world outside the palace walls seemed to be shrouded in a tense atmosphere.