"I wouldn't want to slow you down."
"Nonsense! We'll give you a gentle horse. Very docile. Perfect for beginners like you." Lady Meifeng moved closer, her smile widening. "Come, Lady Su. You have been working so hard. We believe you deserve some fresh air and relaxation. Don't you agree, everyone?"
The other concubines murmured agreement, and even some of the physicians nodded.
Soyeon felt trapped. If she refused, she would look either afraid or antisocial. But every instinct told her this was a setup.
"I would need to bring guards."
"Already arranged!" Lady Chen Hua clapped her hands. "His Highness the Crown Prince specifically assigned escorts for our safety. Six guards to accompany us. Very proper and secure."
Lady Xia leaned over and whispered urgently, "Su Yan, I don't trust them—"
"I don't either," Soyeon whispered back. "But if I refuse now, they'll just try something else later. At least this way, there will be guards present. Witnesses."
"Then I'm coming with you."
