Doted By The Regent King-Chapter 533: No Pay Without Work

Wufu knew that the Hidden Guards were all subjected to rigorous training, doing deeds that shunned the light, their identities concealed in the shadows. Even when their purpose was protection, they would lurk unseen, intervening only as a last resort, maintaining an ace in the hole, showing their hand only when absolutely necessary.

Someone like Ah Jiu also had people secretly following him. Wufu didn’t know where they were hiding, but she was aware of their presence.

Given his noble status, it was unsurprising he had such an organization’s people at his disposal. And it wasn’t just him, a prince, even the leading masters of great clans and family patriarchs would cultivate such organizations and personnel—be it to carry out their clandestine tasks or gather intelligence for their protection.

But, these were important figures—why would a woman of rural upbringing like her need Hidden Guards?

Wufu hadn’t yet perceived someone else’s ulterior motives. In her previous life, she had never seriously engaged in romance; how could she understand matters of love?

Therefore, Wufu laughed and said, "Ninth Master, no, Your Highness, what is your status, and what is mine? You don’t need me to point it out, right?"

Ah Jiu frowned.

"For someone of your dignified status, having Hidden Guard protection is justifiable. As for me, I’m merely from the countryside—why would I need skilled protectors like them? You’re wasting resources!" Wufu lifted her tea for a gentle sip and continued, "Having the mighty Secret Guard Camp serve by my side as maids, was it easy for you to train them?"

Such extravagance on her part!

Ah Jiu’s face darkened and he said, "The Secret Guard Camp trains all sorts of individuals, from the high and mighty to the lowly, and women are no exception. Once they’re trained, they’re assigned according to their abilities. Some are planted in brothels, some become maids or concubines in wealthy households, and even the palace isn’t an exception..."

Listening to this, Wufu sharply inhaled and said, "From what you’re saying, these Hidden Guards are truly pervasive!"

Ah Jiu replied, "These are secret lines; whether they get discovered lies in their own skill. If they’re found out, they’d only face death."

Wufu frowned—such a time without human rights!

"Take Purple Jade and Jadeite for instance. Their fate is to end up either in a wealthy household as maids or concubines, doing undercover work, or in even filthier places, or situations where they cannot see the light of day. That’s just their destiny," Ah Jiu said indifferently. "To be with you, that’s their good fortune. At least they stand in the sunlight, clean and spotless."

Wufu cast a sidelong glance at him. "Are you sure you’re not placing them by my side as spies?"

"You..." Ah Jiu stood up furiously.

Wufu said, "Don’t be angry. We’re not in any kind of relationship. You suddenly giving me two people—it’s reasonable for me to doubt your motives!"

Although they were on friendly terms, they weren’t at the point of life-and-death reliance. Not only had he revealed his identity, but he had also given her two divine protectors. It was truly baffling.

A hint of hurt crossed Ah Jiu’s face as he managed his anger and said, "What motives could I possibly have?"

"That’s what I’m asking you!" Wufu blinked, then quickly rolled her eyes and moved closer with a mysterious air, "Could it be... you’ve fallen in love with me?"

Pfft!

"What nonsense are you spouting?" Ah Jiu spat out the herbal tea that was meant to cool his temper, scrambling to wipe it up.

"Otherwise, why would you willingly give me two people?" Wufu asked. "One shouldn’t accept rewards without merit."

Ah Jiu replied somewhat awkwardly, "Who says I gave them to you for free? One Thousand Taels each! Pay up, Silver!"

He extended his hand, speaking in frustration, but his ears began to burn hot.

Falling in love with her—what nonsense!