Yu Mingyue could tell from Jing Zhan's expression that he understood.
He was the most capable among their group, and for everyone's safety, his cooperation was essential.
Although their guards had some martial arts skills, they were only sufficient against common bandits and bullies, but utterly inadequate against a well-trained army.
The rebels had already controlled the nearby villagers, so for security reasons, they would never allow them into the city.
"Since you speak of the worst-case scenario, perhaps it's not as dire as you describe," Jing Zhan's expression was inscrutable, and Yu Mingyue couldn't fathom his thoughts.
"Most of our group are young ladies. If we encounter danger on the road, even with your and Tingyun Gege's protection, it might be difficult to escape. Returning to the capital takes nearly two hours, while the journey back took less than an hour."
"Uncle Gu and the others took the main road yesterday and should have returned to the city safely. Otherwise, if Uncle Gu hadn't attended the morning court today, the Sage would surely have inquired and likely sent the Qianniu Guard to search for us. If we don't return to the capital on time today, Uncle Gu would definitely send people to gather information."
Moreover, today's group included not only the Gu siblings but also the daughter of Prime Minister Mo and General Han of the Northern Army.
If they didn't return to the capital by the agreed time, their respective families would likely be frantic.
"Sixth Lady's reasoning is not without merit, but if Tingyun and I protect Youyou, there's still a possibility of escape," Jing Zhan's lips curved into a cold smile, and his words were even more ruthless.
As expected, this Jing Zhan wouldn't compromise so easily.
"I know your abilities, but no matter how skilled you are, you are still mortal. If the other side has more people, are you so confident you can lead Youyou away safely? If you truly have that confidence, I won't stop you."
Jing Zhan fell silent. This Yu Liuniang was indeed cunning; she had already devised a fallback plan in such a short time.
Yu Mingyue could tell from his expression that he likely knew Youyou wouldn't abandon everyone to leave with him, nor would Tingyun Gege.
The reason she approached him first instead of Youyou was also to leave herself a retreat. If negotiations failed, she would let Youyou handle him.
Youyou was always loyal and would surely not abandon them, especially since they had all come to celebrate her birthday.
Rather than falling apart later, it was better to unite and face the situation together.
"But if we return now, what if we encounter danger on the road?" Jing Zhan retorted.
"They are confining the villagers to prevent information from leaking. As long as we don't return to the capital, we are safe. Besides, our group consists mostly of women, and we look like we are out for leisure, making us easier to disguise," Yu Mingyue looked in the direction of the capital. "Their ambition lies there..."
"Hmph, if we go by your words, and there truly is a rebellion, wouldn't returning now be like walking into a trap?" Jing Zhan disagreed. m..oΓg
"Jing Zhan Gege, what use is it for them to capture us? To threaten the Sage? Have you forgotten the Northern Army outside the city?"
Their inaction was likely waiting for the opportune moment.
Night was the time of least defense. She had heard her father say that speed was of the essence in warfare, and night was the easiest time for a breakthrough.
If they didn't deploy troops yesterday, it would be today; waiting too long would dampen morale.
Jing Zhan's cold smile deepened: "To think you can mobilize the Northern Army with a single sentence is wishful thinking."
"Therefore, Jing Zhan Gege, your time to achieve great deeds has arrived," Yu Mingyue smiled with ease.
Jing Zhan's gaze sharpened. Anyone else would have been frightened, but Yu Mingyue remained remarkably calm.
"I surmise that Jing Zhan Gege, daring to marry the only daughter of the future Prime Minister, would not be content to remain an obscure guard for a lifetime. Moreover, if there is only one opportunity, do you think Uncle Gu would give it to Tingyun Gege or to you?"