Don't Provoke the Black Lotus O [Transmigration Novel] - Chapter 23

23: Three-in-One

Yao Qin had taken extra care with her appearance today, spending half an hour just on her hair and trying on five or six outfits before finally settling on a light pink ruqun. This was the latest style from Ningxiang Pavilion, made with exquisite materials and tailoring, making her look like a delicate and charming young lady, as radiant as a flower.

So what if Xi Lingxue has some looks? Who doesn’t?

Dressed so plainly, she doesn’t even look like a princess! Compared to her, I’m far superior!

“Marquis~~” Yao Qin, adorned with jingling jewelry, put on a show of sincere repentance, her voice deliberately soft. “After deep reflection, I’ve realized my mistakes! From now on, I will treat you and the princess with the utmost respect! After all, now that I’ve entered the Marquis’s household, we are all one family. We should love and care for each other!”

Yao Qin didn’t dare to confront Xi Lingxue head-on now. After all, that woman had bewitched Gao Yi and won his favor, and she even had poison! What a sinister Kunjun!

Her words were a deliberate admission of fault, playing the humble role so well that no one could find fault with her.

Jiang Ci caught a whiff of an overpowering fragrance, as if someone had doused themselves in too much perfume. She couldn’t help but frown, and when she looked up, who else could it be but Yao Qin?

Xi Lingxue watched coldly from the sidelines, showing no intention of engaging. She wondered how Gao Yi would react.

To be fair, Yao Qin’s looks were indeed top-notch. Otherwise, Gao Yi wouldn’t have doted on her so much before. Today, after her meticulous grooming, she looked even more stunning.

For some reason, Xi Lingxue felt a pang of irritation.

As Yao Qin approached, Jiang Ci quickly scooted back, covering her nose. “Let’s skip the love and care. Just don’t cause any trouble, and we’ll be fine.”

Yao Qin stumbled, almost tripping over her skirt, her smile freezing on her face.

…What do you mean by causing trouble?

And she’s covering her nose?

Does she really hate my pheromones that much?!

This is so insulting!

Yao Qin suppressed her resentment, blaming everything on Xi Lingxue. If it weren’t for that witch using some underhanded method, how could Gao Yi treat her like this?!

But one thing puzzled her: ever since returning from the Buddhist retreat, she hadn’t caught a whiff of Gao Yi’s pheromones—not even that day on the street when she was close to him.

Kunjuns were highly sensitive to such things, and she hadn’t detected Gao Yi’s scent on Xi Lingxue either. So… had she not been marked?

Well, well, Yao Qin thought, this bewitching drug must be incredibly potent! It doesn’t even require marking to make someone obey her every word!

Xi Lingxue remained aloof, not even acknowledging Yao Qin. She merely glanced at her briefly before turning back to continue feeding Jiang Ci her medicine.

Jiang Ci drank sip after sip, her gaze fixed on Xi Lingxue, her heart racing.

When some broth dripped onto Jiang Ci’s lips, Xi Lingxue gently wiped it away with a handkerchief, her cool eyes focused and serious.

Jiang Ci’s ears turned red.

The black lotus was so cold to everyone else, but so gentle with her. She loved it!

Seeing the two of them so “affectionate” Yao Qin was seething with anger.

After all the effort she’d put into her appearance and her performance, these two were completely ignoring her! Treating her like air!

Jin Yu happily hummed a tune, looking up at the ceiling: I can’t see you either~

Yao Qin: Argh! Even this little maid dares to look down on me!

Fine, fine! Let’s see how long you can keep this up!

Yao Qin quickly adjusted her emotions and cooed, “Marquis, what do you mean by causing trouble? When have I ever caused trouble? Yesterday, when I heard you had fainted, I was frantic with worry! But because of the restrictions, I couldn’t leave my courtyard. So first thing this morning, I sent for someone to help regulate your health and nourish your body.”

Hearing this, Jiang Ci glanced outside and indeed saw a middle-aged man, slightly portly, carrying a medical kit.

Jiang Ci asked, “Who’s that outside?”

Yao Qin replied promptly, “You’ve met him before, haven’t you? He’s the Yao family’s doctor. Don’t you remember?”

While saying this, she thought to herself how potent the bewitching drug must be. Gao Yi didn’t even recognize people anymore!

The doctor, hearing the conversation, quickly stepped forward to bow and pay his respects.

Jiang Ci had no recollection of this man. How could she possibly remember all these minor characters?

Jin Yu grew anxious and quickly looked at Xi Lingxue, “Your Highness…”

They absolutely couldn’t let the doctor examine Gao Yi!

If he discovered the issue with the glands and investigated further, the princess would surely be taken away!

Xi Lingxue naturally understood.

“No need.” she said coldly. “Doctor Zhang already examined him yesterday. This doctor may leave.”

Her firm tone left the doctor somewhat embarrassed.

Indeed, the princess was as cold as they said!

Seeing Xi Lingxue’s evasiveness, Yao Qin became even more convinced of her suspicions.

Heh, she’s scared. She’s hiding something!

In that case, no matter what, Gao Yi must be treated!

“Sister, how can you say that? Our doctor came all this way. It’s not right to send him back like this. Why not let him take a look? It can’t hurt.” Yao Qin said, throwing a flirtatious glance at Jiang Ci. “What do you think, Marquis?”

Xi Lingxue’s brows furrowed, her expression darkening.

Jiang Ci: I… I think it’s nauseating…

Yao Qin even went out of her way to find a doctor. How bored must she be? What’s the point of all this regulating? She fainted because of Zhang Chengji’s acupuncture, not because she was actually sick!

“Ahem, I’ll listen to the princess.” Jiang Ci said, mimicking Gao Yi’s mannerisms and waving her hand impatiently. “Yao family’s doctor, right? Go back where you came from.”

The doctor was stunned. “Huh? But…”

He had been summoned by Yao Qin, who claimed that the Marquis was unwell and possibly poisoned. That’s why he had rushed to the Marquis’s residence early in the morning. Now that he was here, how could he leave without even taking the pulse?

Yao Qin chimed in, “This is so inappropriate!”

“What’s inappropriate about it? The princess and I are going for a walk. Why are you still standing here?” Jiang Ci glared at the doctor, her gaze unfriendly. “You’re not leaving? Are you planning to mooch lunch off me?”

Gao Yi’s fierce appearance, combined with this glare, made it seem like she was about to throw a punch at any moment.

The doctor had heard tales of the Marquis’s bravery in battle, and he’d even heard rumors that she had tortured prisoners!

“…No, no, how would I dare!” The doctor broke out in a cold sweat, wiping his forehead with his sleeve. “Then… I’ll take my leave!”

The Marquis looked perfectly healthy—where was this “unwell” coming from?

Jiang Ci snorted. “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”

“Hey, you’re just leaving?!” Yao Qin called after him, but the doctor didn’t even turn back.

She cursed inwardly: Useless fool!

Yao Qin pouted, pretending to be hurt. “Marquis, what has our doctor done to offend you? Or… are you still angry with me?”

As she spoke, a tear slid down her cheek, making her look pitiful and delicate.

Xi Lingxue watched coldly, unmoved.

Jiang Ci felt a bit uncomfortable. If it weren’t for the complicated circumstances, she would have divorced Yao Qin in a heartbeat.

“Bringing people into the residence without my permission…” Jiang Ci glanced at her sideways and said, “You’re going back into confinement. Reflect on your actions!”

“Confinement again?!” Yao Qin’s tears stopped instantly, her crying on and off like a switch. “Marquis, I just got out!”

Jiang Ci ignored her, taking Xi Lingxue’s hand to go for a walk.

Yao Qin tried to follow but was stopped by the guards. “Madam Qin, please.”

These guards didn’t care about anyone’s feelings, they only obeyed Gao Yi.

Helpless, Yao Qin watched as the two walked further away, stomping her feet in frustration. “That witch… just wait!”

If she couldn’t handle this herself, she’d ask Yao Zhi for help. She’d send a letter as soon as she got back!

Gao Yi was too deeply poisoned. This bewitching drug had to be cured!

…

Jiang Ci and Xi Lingxue strolled through the courtyard. The sunlight was gentle and serene, the air fresh, and the soft breeze against their faces was utterly relaxing.

Jin Yu followed quietly behind them, her heart racing with excitement.

Yao Qin’s expression earlier was priceless, changing on a dime. Jin Yu had almost burst out laughing. That woman used to strut around arrogantly in front of her and the princess, so annoying. But now? The Marquis couldn’t even be bothered to look at her!

Jin Yu glanced at her princess. Though her expression was still calm, Jin Yu knew she must be happy inside!

Jiang Ci was admiring the flowers when she noticed a large empty space in the backyard. “How about we plant a plum grove here? In the future, we can walk through the snow to admire the blossoms and invite your friends over for drinks. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?”

“Plum blossoms…” Xi Lingxue paused, then said, “You’re the Marquis. It’s your decision.”

Jiang Ci grinned. “Great, I’ll have the servants take care of it later.”

Xi Lingxue was still thinking about what had happened earlier. They had dodged the doctor this time, but what about the future? Did Yao Qin bring him because she had noticed something?

Jiang Ci could tell she was preoccupied. “What’s on your mind? Tell me.”

“I…”

Xi Lingxue looked at Jiang Ci. For a moment, she even doubted Zhang Chengji’s diagnosis.

Gao Yi did often spout nonsense, but sometimes she was remarkably perceptive, seeing through Yao Qin’s fake kindness and knowing how to handle people like Wang Shichang.

Zhang Chengji called it a mental disorder, but Xi Lingxue felt like she had become a completely different person.

“I was wondering… why you’re so cold to Yao Qin now. Didn’t you used to adore her?”

“That was in the past.” Jiang Ci said with a smile. “Back then, ‘I’ was blind, my judgment clouded. But now… I only adore you.”

Xi Lingxue’s face flushed, and she shot Jiang Ci a glare.

This person… always teasing her! She couldn’t stay serious for more than two sentences!

Xi Lingxue turned and walked away.

“I mean it.” Jiang Ci said, chasing after her. “Don’t think my words are unreliable just because I’m ‘crazy.’ It’s just that my change was too sudden. You can think of it as a sudden awakening!”

“Awakening?” Xi Lingxue walked ahead, her voice cool. “There’s no benefit in adoring me. I’m not like Yao Qin. I can’t offer you any advantages. In fact, I might even drag you down… I’m just a pretty face.”

“What are you talking about?”

Jiang Ci frowned, quickly stepping in front of her.

Xi Lingxue stopped and looked at her calmly. “These are facts.”

Jiang Ci said seriously, “That’s what others think. I don’t see it that way. To me, you’re the best.”

Xi Lingxue was slightly taken aback, her eyes flickering.

Jiang Ci continued, “I’m already the Marquis. What more do I need? I can be your support! And as for being just a pretty face, I think Yao Qin is the one who’s… stupid and malicious.”

Xi Lingxue couldn’t help but laugh at the last part.

Stupid and malicious?

That description was… oddly accurate.

Xi Lingxue suddenly took a step forward. She was slightly shorter than Gao Yi, so she had to tilt her head up.

A faint plum blossom scent enveloped Jiang Ci, who looked down at those luscious, red lips, so close now.

Her throat suddenly felt dry, her cheeks burning uncontrollably, every nerve in her body tense. Jiang Ci could even hear her own heartbeat, thumping loudly…

Xi Lingxue looked into her eyes and suddenly felt like she resembled someone. “What you said earlier… was it sincere?”

Jiang Ci’s heart skipped a beat.

Whenever the word “sincere” came up, it always carried an indescribable weight.

The wind had died down, and the courtyard was quiet except for the occasional chirping of birds.

Jiang Ci glanced up slightly. Xi Lingxue was staring straight at her, those cool eyes filled with an unreadable emotion.

Her heartbeat faltered, and after a brief pause, Jiang Ci opened her mouth and said, “…Yes.”

Perhaps satisfied with the answer, Xi Lingxue smiled faintly.

By the time Jiang Ci regained her senses, only the faint scent of plum blossoms lingered in the air. Xi Lingxue was already far away.

Her heartbeat hadn’t returned to normal. She pressed her palm to her face, feeling the heat. Thankfully, Gao Yi’s skin was thick and dark, so no one could tell she was blushing.

Jiang Ci let out a sigh of relief. She had been so nervous earlier…

But damn, it was exciting!

The black lotus was so alluring just now! Could she come a little closer? Jiang Ci loved it!

Covering her face, Jiang Ci stood there alone, secretly thrilled, stomping her feet in excitement. She fantasized about the unspoken developments with Xi Lingxue when, out of the corner of her eye, she suddenly noticed Jin Yu standing nearby.

“Ahem…”

That scared her!

Jin Yu’s expression remained frozen, her face stiff, her lips slightly parted as if she had witnessed something terrifying, her look indescribable.

“Uh…” Jiang Ci’s hands fidgeted awkwardly, rubbing against her clothes as she tried to act nonchalant. “Why are you still here? Your Highness has already left.”

Jin Yu looked her up and down, sighed, and shook her head. She didn’t say anything unpleasant but quickly ran off after Xi Lingxue.

Jiang Ci: …What does that mean?

She touched her face. Did she think I was ugly?

…

Jiang Ci had originally planned to visit Huang Fu as soon as she woke up to get some answers, but the black lotus had kept her in the residence all day for a “crash course.”

Tomorrow was the court assembly, but Gao Yi had suddenly developed a mental disorder and forgotten many things. Xi Lingxue was worried she might make a mistake, so she gave her a rundown of court etiquette, rituals, and some key figures.

Jiang Ci listened attentively all day. She realized that only the female lead and those around her seemed to have deviated from the original plot. Everyone else seemed to be following the script.

That night, they shared the room again. Jiang Ci slept on the floor, tossing and turning, unable to sleep.

Her mind wandered between thoughts of the court assembly tomorrow—she was about to meet the emperor, which was exciting—and Xi Lingxue. What did she think of her now? Did she feel even a tiny bit of affection?

Probably… right?

Jiang Ci’s mind split into two voices. One said yes, her attitude had improved significantly. The other said no, she just thought you were crazy and was being slightly nicer because you had helped her.

Jiang Ci was torn. Just as she was deep in this internal debate, she heard Xi Lingxue say, “Can’t sleep?”

“Uh…” She made up an excuse. “The floor’s too hard.”

Xi Lingxue fell silent. She remembered what Zhang Chengji had said: after the glands were destroyed, a Qianjun’s physique would gradually weaken, eventually becoming like a Zhongjun.

So, was this the beginning of the decline…

After a long silence, Xi Lingxue said, “Gao Yi, you can sleep on the bed. I’ll take the floor.”

“Huh?”

Jiang Ci blinked, surprised. She was being so considerate to a lunatic!

“That won’t do. You’re a Kunjun, your constitution is weaker. You’ll catch a cold! I’m a Qianjun, I can handle it.”

Xi Lingxue pursed her lips. “Come up. I’ll get some thicker blankets for the floor.”

Seeing her about to get up, Jiang Ci quickly scrambled to her feet, grabbed her bedding, and flopped onto the bed.

Xi Lingxue was trapped inside, the two of them face to face.

Jiang Ci: “It’s late, let’s not make a fuss. We can both sleep on the bed, right?”

Xi Lingxue: “…”

The bed was spacious, with plenty of room between them.

Jiang Ci: “I sleep really well. You saw the past couple of nights, right? I hardly move.”

Xi Lingxue recalled that it was true. Jiang Ci always fell asleep quickly, hugging her pillow, rarely tossing or turning.

But sharing a bed with someone else was…

“Ah.” seeing her hesitation, Jiang Ci sighed and slowly sat up, holding her blanket. “So you still hate me that much.”

She had meant to say it deliberately, a classic case of playing hard to get~

But halfway through, Jiang Ci suddenly felt genuinely wronged.

She hadn’t done anything wrong, so why did she have to bear the blame as soon as she arrived? And why did she have to endure Xi Lingxue’s disdain…

She had tried so hard to prove herself, doing everything she could to help Xi Lingxue—lifting the ban, handing over the private vault key, confining Yao Qin, dealing with Wang Shichang, even getting Wu Wei…

But after all that, instead of gaining trust, she was treated like a lunatic.

Jiang Ci’s eyes grew hot. She bit her lip and muttered, “…Forget it. In your eyes, I’m just a madwoman. No one believes a word I say.”

She was about to get off the bed with her blanket when someone grabbed her arm.

“You… fine, let’s sleep together.”

Huh???

Though it was barely a whisper, Jiang Ci heard it clearly.

The black lotus wanted to sleep with her?

Jiang Ci raised an eyebrow, all her sadness instantly forgotten.

She turned to look at Xi Lingxue, who had already withdrawn her hand and was now completely wrapped in the blanket, facing away from her like a little silkworm cocoon—looking oddly adorable.

Jiang Ci lay back down, feeling content. She thought to herself gleefully, if they were already sharing a bed, how far could a kiss be…?

Hahaha, being close to the water, she’d get the moon first. The black lotus must have some feelings for her!

…

Before dawn the next day, when the sky outside was just beginning to lighten but the sun had yet to rise, Jiang Ci was forced to get up. She felt like a zombie, half-asleep, letting Xi Lingxue fuss over her hair and help her into her court robes.

Jiang Ci took a final look in the mirror. Despite Gao Yi’s somewhat weathered face, as a military officer, her figure was still impressive—tall and upright.

With a black gauze cap on her head, a deep purple court robe, and black boots, she looked every bit the dashing figure—a true “back-view killer.”

It was just that face… Jiang Ci still couldn’t get used to it. It always felt unfamiliar.

Xi Lingxue straightened her collar and reminded her with concern, “You’re a military officer. The Emperor rarely asks you anything in court. Just listen quietly… Remember, no matter what he says, don’t argue back.”

“Got it.”

Jiang Ci was secretly delighted. The black lotus was being so caring now. Small things like helping her get dressed could have been left to the maids, but Xi Lingxue had taken it upon herself.

Jiang Ci felt warm inside.

“Also,” Xi Lingxue said seriously, “you must hide the fact about your mental disorder. If necessary, you can claim headaches or memory loss. If the Crown Prince finds out you’re ill, she will definitely try to strip you of your military authority.”

Jiang Ci nodded. She understood that the Emperor would never let a lunatic lead troops.

Actually, spouting nonsense was easier to handle. As long as she didn’t break into street dancing…

Sigh, she had only wanted to prove to Xi Lingxue that she wasn’t Gao Yi. She never expected things to turn out like this.

Zhang Chengji’s understanding really isn’t up to par; it needs improvement.

Before heading out, Jiang Ci asked, “Is there anything you’d like to eat? I can bring it back for you after court.”

Back when Jiang Ci’s parents were still alive, this was how things were at home. Her father usually did the cooking, so he often asked her and her mother in their family group chat, “What do you want for dinner? I’ll pick something up on my way home.”

So, Jiang Ci naturally asked Xi Lingxue the same.

Yet, such a simple and seemingly ordinary question struck a chord deep within Xi Lingxue.

When she was young, she had fantasized about what kind of person she would marry and what kind of life they would share.

Back then, Xi Lingxue thought that living like ordinary people would be wonderful. She didn’t need her partner to have great power or influence, as long as they truly loved each other. Sharing three meals a day, experiencing the changing seasons, and living a simple life—that was the life she yearned for most.

However, as she grew older, she realized how naive and laughable those childhood dreams were.

Just now, when Gao Yi casually asked that question, Xi Lingxue felt a strange illusion, as if they weren’t a Marquis and a princess, but just an ordinary couple.

No mountains of gold or silver, no rare treasures—just bringing back a small treat she liked.

Seeing her suddenly lost in thought, Jiang Ci waved a hand in front of her eyes. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Xi Lingxue snapped out of it, her expression slightly awkward. She whispered, “Pineapple cake… would that be okay?”

Pineapple cake? So the black lotus likes this?

This wasn’t mentioned in the original book.

“Of course, no problem.”

After leaving the Marquis’s residence, Jiang Ci rode straight to the palace. Thankfully, this body still retained its muscle memory, so her martial skills and horsemanship hadn’t deteriorated.

Although waking up early was painful, attending court had its advantages—at least she could get a sense of the political landscape.

The palace of Yu Kingdom was magnificent, with golden glazed tiles that shone brilliantly. The grand hall was supported by several massive red pillars, each adorned with a lifelike golden dragon.

Ministers filed into the hall one after another, as the Emperor had not yet arrived.

In the midst of a crowd of over a hundred people, Jiang Ci found it impossible to match names with faces, recognizing no one. Some would greet her, and Jiang Ci would exchange a few polite words in response, taking the opportunity to ask, “Do you know which family makes the best pineapple cake?”

The ministers were momentarily taken aback, somewhat puzzled by the question, but those who knew would offer some information.

After making her rounds of inquiries, Jiang Ci had a rough idea.

Not long after, the old emperor finally appeared, and everyone ceased their conversations to stand properly. Civil officials stood to the left, military officers to the right, with the front row naturally occupied by significant figures such as the princes and the grand tutor.

This time, Jiang Ci finally saw some familiar faces, which were largely consistent with the descriptions in the original book.

The emperor was a wretched old man, not yet sixty, but his body was already very weak. Upon seeing him, Jiang Ci thought that Xi Lingxue’s beauty must have been inherited from Consort An.

The old man had few descendants, only four children, all daughters, but currently, only Xi Lingxue was a Kunjun. The youngest was not yet of age and had not differentiated, so only the Crown Prince and the Prince Duan attended the court.

The Crown Prince, Xi Chenfeng, was the legitimate child of the empress, naturally carrying an air of arrogance. She was of the same height as Gao Yi, dressed in a golden court robe, with a serene and dignified presence that commanded respect in the court, clearly the result of strict upbringing from a young age.

This person also had some depth of character. Although Gao Yi was not of her faction, upon their first meeting, she could still smile and inquire about his injuries.

Jiang Ci naturally responded with a feigned smile.

As for the Prince Duan, whom Gao Yi supported, she was the child of Consort Yao, standing in opposition to the Crown Prince, rivaling her.

Jiang Ci did not see her today; Xi Lingxue had told her that the Prince Duan was currently not in the capital, as she was with the general suppressing a rebellion in the west.

Judging by the timeline, if this part of the plot hasn’t changed, Prince Duan would soon achieve a great victory and return to the capital in triumph.

Jiang Ci kept Xi Lingxue’s advice in mind and remained silent during the court session, trying to keep a low profile.

The emperor and his ministers went back and forth, arguing over the matter of quelling the rebellion. Civil officials and military officers disagreed, and both sides were red-faced and spitting with fury in their heated debate.

Jiang Ci stood until her legs went numb and yawned several times. Just when she thought it was almost over, the emperor suddenly remembered her.

“Gao Yi, how is your recovery? You look very tired.” the emperor said.

Jiang Ci quickly straightened up, bowed her head in salute, and replied earnestly, “Your Majesty, it’s just a minor injury. I’m already fine, thank you for your concern.”

The emperor nodded and said, “Lingxue has a difficult temperament and doesn’t like to talk, like a silent gourd. Please bear with her.”

Jiang Ci pursed her lips, feeling slightly annoyed by what she heard.

How can you, as a father, say such things about your daughter? Don’t you have any idea how Consort An died?

Jiang Ci raised her head, straightened her back, and declared loudly, “I think the princess is wonderful.”

The emperor was surprised. His daughter, except for her mother, was cold to everyone, including him. It was said that after marrying Gao Yi, the two were mostly at odds, and she even injured Gao Yi’s gland.

Unexpectedly, today in court, Gao Yi actually spoke up for her?

“I still understand her temperament.” the emperor leaned back on his dragon throne, shifting to a more comfortable position, and said magnanimously, “You need not be apprehensive. Even if she is a princess, if she makes a mistake, I will not show favoritism.”

Jiang Ci: Haha?

She was almost amused by anger, how noble of you, saying this in court to earn praise, huh?

Just as she finished her internal sarcasm, a few ministers actually chimed in, “Your Majesty is wise!”

Jiang Ci: “…”

You guys are really good at this!

Jiang Ci pouted and spoke bluntly, “I believe Your Majesty does not truly understand the princess.”

The emperor, who had been basking in the praise, suddenly changed his expression upon hearing this, clearly displeased, “What did you say?”

The ministers fell silent, and even the attendant standing nearby broke into a sweat, thinking to himself that this Gao Yi was being ungrateful.

His Majesty is on your side, and yet you defy him!

The attendant gave Jiang Ci a look, signaling her to say no more.

The Crown Prince, however, became intrigued, sensing that Gao Yi seemed different today. She had also heard about the interesting events that had occurred a few days prior.

It was said that the Kunjun of the Yao family had suddenly fallen out of favor and was overshadowed by Xi Lingxue?

In the solemn court, Jiang Ci became the focal point of everyone’s attention. The emperor scrutinized her from his high throne, while the ministers bowed their heads, secretly speculating about her in their hearts.

The atmosphere was eerily quiet, as if frozen in time.

Jiang Ci met the emperor’s gaze calmly, showing no signs of panic.

[“No matter what he says, do not contradict him.”]

Xi Lingxue’s warning still echoed in her ears, and Jiang Ci remembered it well, but on this matter, she did not want to hold back.

The system suddenly popped up with a friendly reminder: [“Host, this is the emperor…”]

It hadn’t expected this host to be so combative, daring to confront anyone.

Jiang Ci snorted inwardly, the emperor? But isn’t he also Xi Lingxue’s father? If it weren’t for his attitude, Xi Lingxue wouldn’t have suffered so much humiliation.

Thinking this, Jiang Ci took a deep breath.

“Your Majesty, I have married the princess and spend every day with her. I understand better than anyone that the princess is pure and kind-hearted. Your Majesty finds her temperament dull, but in truth, she simply swallows her words, not wanting to expose her vulnerability in front of others, unwilling to seek sympathy as a weakling.”

“The princess’s temperament is excellent, and I am very fond of her.”

These words were spoken clearly and firmly, each word resonating clearly in the ears of the ministers, startling them with varied expressions.

Jiang Ci, full of sharpness and without fear, looked as if she were ready to remonstrate with her life, if not for the fact that her words were all in praise of Xi Lingxue.

The emperor’s face darkened as he gripped the dragon head carved on the armrest of his throne.

Wasn’t this action a slap in his face in front of all the officials? This Gao Yi, having been married for only a few days, dared to claim that she understood his daughter better than he, her father, did?!

But what could he say? The words were clearly full of praise.

The emperor was utterly frustrated; this Gao Yi, what kind of gunpowder had she eaten today!

No one spoke, and the emperor was left without a way to step down. At this moment, someone suddenly stepped forward from among the officials.

“Marquis Dingyuan is truly devoted to the princess. However, I heard that the Marquis suddenly fainted in the mansion the other day, and perhaps her mind is not yet clear?” the person said: “Your Majesty, my sister is deeply worried about this matter, and I was thinking of asking Imperial Doctor Xue to diagnose Marquis Dingyuan, hoping for Your Majesty’s approval.”

The words were dripping with sarcasm, and Jiang Ci frowned upon hearing them.

…Another medical examination, who are you? And who is your sister?

Jiang Ci was about to say that there was no need for trouble when the emperor waved his sleeve irritably and said, “Have her treated! Take a good look at that head! Court dismissed!”

With that, he left without leaving any room for further discussion.

Jiang Ci: Damn… you wretched old man, it’s your brain that’s sick!

The system was sweating: [“Host, you are really something, even daring to confront the emperor.”]

Jiang Ci: [“What’s there to fear? He wouldn’t dare kill me.”]

Jiang Ci was not being reckless; she knew that as long as she didn’t commit any heinous crimes, the emperor would tolerate Gao Yi and would never harm her life.

At most, she would become a nuisance, be punished a bit, so what?

The system was convinced.

As soon as the court was dismissed, the officials hurried away, though a few came up to flatter her.

“Marquis, you are truly brave, I admire you!”

“Yes, with the Marquis’s sincere affection, the princess is truly blessed!”

“You and the princess will surely become a romantic tale in Yu Country!”

…

Jiang Ci forced a smile and dealt with them one by one, not knowing what positions these people held.

The Crown Prince glanced at Jiang Ci a few more times, but ultimately held back her words, chuckled, and left.

Only the person who had spoken in the grand hall earlier seemed to be waiting for her on purpose.

Jiang Ci glanced sideways and saw that the person bore a seventy percent resemblance to Yao Qin, except that he was a Qianjun, as Jiang Ci caught a whiff of an aggressive, tobacco-like scent of pheromones. Unlike Yao Qin’s doll-like face, his features were more defined, and he was taller, exuding an air of nobility and a dashing demeanor.

A name immediately popped into Jiang Ci’s mind—Yao Zhi.

Yao Zhi smiled as he met her gaze, but inwardly he was surprised. He had released his pheromones to provoke her, yet the other party remained so calm, not even a furrow in her brow.

Was this still the Gao Yi he knew?!

…She’s really come a long way!

Yao Zhi was fuming inside. Wang Shichang had wanted to offer the recipe for the grocery store to him, and those rare items would surely sell big at Ningxiang Pavilion, bringing in a considerable income.

Who would have thought that this scoundrel Gao Yi would ruin it all!

Yao Zhi had always looked down on Gao Yi and only maintained a superficial friendship with her. In Yao Zhi’s eyes, Gao Yi was crude and shallow, capricious, and merely relied on the ancestral achievements of the Gao family to bask in imperial favor. If it weren’t for the fact that the noble consort valued her power and status, and that they were both part of Prince Duan’s faction, he wouldn’t bother with this person.

Recently, it’s unclear what madness has struck this scoundrel, but she even took away Wu Wei while he was away, what a huge loss for Ningxiang Pavilion!

Yesterday, Wang Shichang cried his eyes out in front of Yao Zhi, vehemently denouncing how despicable Gao Yi was, saying that she was completely infatuated with the Kunjun and no longer cared about Prince Duan’s great cause!

Yao Zhi was just getting angry when he coincidentally received a letter from his sister.

The letter firmly pointed out that Gao Yi had been bewitched by Xi Lingxue…

Yao Zhi was shocked, but upon reflection, that must be it!

This explains everything!

From the grocery store to Ningxiang Pavilion, the princess was present.

If she hadn’t been bewitched, how could Gao Yi suddenly change her heart? How could she put Yao Qin under house arrest? Why would the princess prevent the mansion’s doctor from treating her?

Even just now, Gao Yi actually defied the emperor for the princess!

All of this indicates that Gao Yi has been enchanted.

Therefore, Yao Zhi took the opportunity to request Imperial Doctor Xue from the emperor, so Gao Yi would have no way to refuse.

Thinking of that ethereal and aloof woman, a hint of greed flashed in Yao Zhi’s eyes.

After the court session, Yao Zhi found Gao Yi and, pretending to be familiar, said, “Ah Yi, let’s go to your mansion together, I can also visit my sister.”

Jiang Ci walked straight out of the palace without looking at him and replied expressionlessly, “I need to go buy something first.”

Yao Zhi: “What do you need to buy? Can’t you just send a servant?”

Jiang Ci: “Why do you care?”

Yao Zhi was instantly angered by this. Well, this Gao Yi is now treating him so poorly too? Didn’t she used to call him brother-in-law?

But Yao Zhi couldn’t very well argue in the palace, so he could only force a cold laugh, “Fine, you go. I’ll head to the Marquis’s residence first and wait, Imperial Doctor Xue will arrive soon.”

Jiang Ci glanced at him sideways, “I’m not even at the Marquis’s residence, and you’re just bringing people to my house?”

“Is there a problem?” Yao Zhi smirked, “My sister is there, isn’t she?”

Jiang Ci’s eyebrow twitched. She remembered that in the original book, Yao Zhi had always coveted Xi Lingxue, and even took advantage of Gao Yi’s absence several times to enter the Marquis’s residence under the pretext of visiting his sister to harass Xi Lingxue.

Remembering these things, Jiang Ci’s face immediately turned cold.

It’s just that these events haven’t happened yet, otherwise, she really wanted to kick Yao Zhi to death!

Jiang Ci pressed her lips tightly together and quickly exited the palace gate. The servant was waiting at the entrance, and Jiang Ci took the horse reins from him, speaking in a deep voice, “Go back to the mansion immediately and pass on my order: from now on, no one is to allow Yao Zhi in without my command.”

“Gao Yi!” Yao Zhi’s face changed drastically upon hearing this, and he questioned, “What do you mean by that!?”

“Anyone who disobeys will be punished with a hundred strokes.” Jiang Ci ignored him and added to the servant, “I will personally carry out the punishment.”

The last five words were not spoken loudly, but the servant felt as if an invisible pressure enveloped him, and he even forgot to breathe.

If this Qianjun were to personally administer the punishment, wouldn’t that mean beating someone to death!

Without a second word, the servant turned and sprinted towards the Marquis’s residence.

Jiang Ci’s disregard made Yao Zhi furious, “What’s gotten into you? I am, after all, your brother-in-law, how can I not enter the Marquis’s residence? Can’t I even visit my sister?!”

Originally, he had thought to take the opportunity to see the princess while Gao Yi was away, but this scoundrel actually blocked his way?

Jiang Ci mounted her horse and looked at him coldly, “You can visit Yao Qin, but only when I am present.”

Yao Zhi gritted his teeth and glared, though unwilling in his heart, there was indeed nothing he could do.

The Marquis’s residence was not a place he could barge into.

“Fine.” Yao Zhi angrily mounted his horse, grabbing the reins, “Aren’t you going to buy something? I’ll follow you.”

He wanted to keep an eye on Gao Yi, to personally witness her being cured of the bewitchment! Then he could come and go from the Marquis’s residence as freely as before.

Jiang Ci rolled her eyes: What a lunatic…

Following me to buy pineapple cakes, someone really should give him a shot like Zhang Chengji did!

…

There were several places in the capital that sold pineapple cakes, and Xi Lingxue hadn’t specified which one she wanted. However, Jiang Ci had already inquired and found out that the most famous one was in an alley in the southern part of the city, also the farthest from the Marquis’s residence.

That wasn’t a big deal, but the main issue was that their pastries were so famous that people started queuing early in the morning, and they would sell out before half the day was over, making them very hard to get.

Jiang Ci wasn’t sure if she could get in line now, so she spurred her horse to hurry towards the southern city. When she arrived, she found that the queue had already extended out of the alley.

Jiang Ci quickly dismounted and ran to join the queue.

Yao Zhi had been following her all along, and when he saw the situation, he felt extremely uncomfortable.

“Since when do you like pineapple cakes? There are so many people, and you’re still queuing? Imperial Doctor Xue is probably already at the Marquis’s residence by now!”

Jiang Ci didn’t care at all, “Let him wait.”

This was the first time Xi Lingxue had not treated her as an outsider, so of course, she had to take it seriously.

The queue moved forward slowly, and Yao Zhi noticed that most of the people buying were Kunjun. He made a quick association and had a guess in his heart.

“Hey, are these pineapple cakes for the princess?”

Jiang Ci turned a deaf ear.

…How annoying, why do you care who I’m buying them for?

Yao Zhi was ignored again, and although he was furious, he also got the answer from her reaction.

It was for Xi Lingxue!

Well, who would believe it if it were said? Just to please the princess, the usually arrogant Marquis Dingyuan was actually squeezing in with commoners to buy pineapple cakes?!

“Stop queuing!” Yao Zhi frowned, grabbed her arm, and said, “Come back to the Marquis’s residence with me now to see Imperial Doctor Xue! Don’t you know you’ve been bewitched by the princess?”

“Will you stop being so annoying!” Jiang Ci shook off his hand, unable to bear it any longer, “So what if I’ve been bewitched by her? She’s my wife!”

This person is ridiculous, is it wrong for me to dote on my own wife?!

Yao Zhi froze for a moment, greatly shocked.

What, she knows? She actually knows!?

This bewitching potion is too powerful!

Once this is over, he must get his hands on a couple of packets!

Yao Zhi: “Look at you! What have you become now!”

Jiang Ci: “What’s it to you?”

The two of them were pulling and tugging in the alley, and the people queuing before and after them scattered upon seeing this. Good heavens, why is the Marquis Dingyuan personally queuing here! They didn’t want to get into trouble, they could always come back tomorrow to buy pineapple cakes!

Jiang Ci glanced sideways and suddenly noticed that many people in front had left.

“Alright! You just want me to go back for a medical check-up, right? I’m not going anywhere! But I must buy these pineapple cakes today!”

Yao Zhi couldn’t win against her, and after a bout of pulling and tugging, he was panting heavily, “You said it yourself!”

“I said it, I said it.” Jiang Ci also panted, hands on her hips, and suddenly looked at him, “Hey, you go ahead and queue for me, I’ll take a break.”

She didn’t know if it was because of her gland, but after moving around a bit, she felt so tired. Yao Zhi was a civil official, and Gao Yi was a military officer, logically her strength shouldn’t be much greater than his, why was it so exhausting…

Yao Zhi raised an eyebrow, he almost thought he had misheard, “What? Me queue for you? Why should I!”

Jiang Ci grabbed him with a backhand, threatening as a matter of course, “If you don’t queue, I’ll hit you.”

Yao Zhi: “???”

Is there no justice?

Yao Zhi was furious, he pointed at Jiang Ci and stammered “you” for a while—forget it, this person is already bewitched, she dares to defy the emperor, what wouldn’t she do?!

If it really came to a fight, he couldn’t win.

“Outrageous… how can there be someone like you?!” Yao Zhi gritted his teeth, but still went to queue with a sullen face.

Jiang Ci found a shady spot, lifted her robe, and sat down, “Blame me, who told you to follow.”

Not to mention, Gao Yi’s status is really awesome… domineering and fearless!

…

At the Marquis Dingyuan’s residence, Imperial Doctor Xue had been waiting for a long time, drinking cup after cup of tea, and running to the restroom three or four times.

He was told to come to diagnose Gao Yi, so he hurried over, only to find that Gao Yi wasn’t there, and neither was Yao Zhi. In this vast Marquis’s residence, the only master left was an icy princess—the side consort was under house arrest.

What kind of situation is this.

After Xi Lingxue understood the purpose of his visit, she stopped conversing with him, and Imperial Doctor Xue could only sit in awkward silence.

In fact, Xi Lingxue was not as calm as she appeared on the surface; on the contrary, she was very uneasy inside.

Just yesterday she had turned away the mansion’s doctor, and today an imperial doctor came, and this time it was by the emperor’s order, with no room for refusal. She didn’t understand if there had been a leak, why were the Yao siblings so persistent, insisting on diagnosing Gao Yi?

Xi Lingxue was on pins and needles, not knowing where Gao Yi had gone, it had been so long since court adjourned and she still hadn’t returned.

…Did she really go to buy pineapple cakes?

She did know that there was a shop in the southern city that required a long queue, but would Gao Yi really go through such trouble for her words? Moreover, Yao Zhi was with her, and with his impatient nature, how could he possibly wait there all this time?