Don't Provoke the Black Lotus O [Transmigration Novel] - Chapter 28

28: Swearing

Claiming to go for a spring outing was actually just a pretext.

If Xi Lingxue could protect the spy, it would be a great achievement, and the emperor would surely take notice of her.

In the history of Yu Kingdom, there were precedents of Kunjun ascending to the throne. However, due to their generally weaker constitution compared to Qianjun, especially during their heat periods, it was particularly challenging. Therefore, there were few examples of Kunjun becoming emperors, and most princesses chose to marry and settle into domestic life.

In fact, like her brothers and sisters, Xi Lingxue was also eligible to compete for the throne. Unfortunately, she had always been suppressed by the empress, who constantly instilled in the emperor the idea that as a Kunjun, marrying and bearing children was the best arrangement, and there was no need to involve herself in court disputes.

Thus, when Xi Lingxue came of age, she was not allowed to enter the court and instead was married off to Gao Yi.

The original plot followed this path, and later, Xi Lingxue endured several years of torment from Gao Yi. Unable to enter the court, she could only scheme in the shadows, enduring hardships and biding her time for many years before finally embarking on the path of rebellion and forcing her way into the palace.

Now that Jiang Ci had transmigrated into this world, she had no intention of suffering so much. She planned to lead Xi Lingxue down a brighter path.

To ensure everything went smoothly, Jiang Ci even took people to scout locations outside the city, observing the terrain.

Outside the capital, there was a forest that was perfect for an ambush.

If this part of the plot hadn’t derailed, Prince Duan would encounter assassins sent by the crown prince here.

…

After the morning court session, Jiang Ci returned and personally selected a dozen skilled guards from the mansion.

Too many people would draw attention. The assassins’ target was clear: to kidnap the spy. They wouldn’t harm Prince Duan or Xi Lingxue. Safety wasn’t a major concern, especially with Jiang Ci and Jin Yu, both skilled in martial arts, present.

However, since this was supposed to be a spring outing, Jiang Ci still needed to prepare some food and entertainment.

She instructed the kitchen to prepare more ingredients so they could have a barbecue in the forest.

Thinking about it, she felt quite excited and even a bit hungry.

“Add some chicken wings, mushrooms, and eggplants.” Jiang Ci personally selected items in the kitchen, her eyes scanning the array of ingredients. “And some enoki mushrooms too. Ah, if only we had aluminum foil…”

Several servants bustled about.

While she was taking her time, Jin Yu was getting anxious.

Weren’t they supposed to take the princess out for a spring outing? It was already afternoon, and they still hadn’t left!

Jin Yu inquired around the mansion and finally learned that Gao Yi was in the kitchen.

Jiang Ci was instructing the servants to cut the meat when she heard hurried footsteps. Looking up, she saw Jin Yu stride into the kitchen, her bangs flying from the rush.

“Marquis, why are you still here?” Jin Yu panted, her face flushed from running. “If we leave this late, we won’t have much time to play. The city gates close at Shen hour (3-5 PM)!”

Jiang Ci touched her nose: I was planning to delay until the gates close anyway.

She slapped her forehead, pretending to suddenly remember. “Oh dear, look at my memory. I’ve been so busy I forgot the time.”

Jin Yu looked at her with a mix of frustration and exasperation. “You should be more attentive. The princess never goes out with others, but she agreed to go with you.”

In the past, many noble youths had invited Xi Lingxue, including the crown prince and Prince Duan, to poetry gatherings, flower viewings, and boat trips, but she had always declined.

This was the first time she had agreed to go out for a spring outing.

“Really? Then I must perform well.” Jiang Ci smiled, then scrutinized Jin Yu. “But… why are you so anxious? Didn’t you used to disapprove of me and the princess?”

“Well, it’s just…” Jin Yu looked somewhat embarrassed, scratching her head and stammering, “After spending some time together, I think you’re quite a decent person, even though you’re terminally ill, always acting crazy, speaking nonsense, seeming a bit abnormal, sometimes annoyingly mischievous, and even a bit scary…”

Jiang Ci’s mouth twitched, suddenly understanding how Xi Lingxue must have felt before.

Jin Yu rambled on for a while, finally reaching the “but—”

Jiang Ci: That “but” took way too long to get to!

Jin Yu said, “But, you’re actually quite a good person, smart and resourceful.”

If nothing else, just look at Huang Runfa. With Gao Yi’s guidance, the business was booming! On the first day of opening, they earned more than in the entire previous month. Huang Fu was already planning to expand further.

Of course, the most important thing was that she treated the princess well.

Jiang Ci waited silently, but after a long while, there was no follow-up.

…So, that’s it? After so much criticism, the praise is this brief?

Jin Yu had run out of words and cheerfully encouraged, “Don’t be insecure. It’s not your fault for being ugly. People shouldn’t judge by appearances. My princess isn’t that shallow.”

Jiang Ci forced a smile, “Thank you…”

Jin Yu waved her hand, “You’re welcome, you’re welcome.”

Huang Runfa had been open for a while now, but there was still no news of the female knight-errant.

Compared to this long-missing person, Jin Yu now hoped more that the princess could have a good relationship with Gao Yi, as this was the happiness within reach!

…

Finally, the ingredients were ready. Including the grill, charcoal, utensils, and so on, they filled an entire cart.

Jiang Ci and Xi Lingxue rode in the same carriage, accompanied by a dozen guards, and set out of the city.

Since this was technically their first “date” Jiang Ci even dressed up a bit, changing into a dark blue martial outfit—of course, her dark complexion didn’t suit bright colors. She wore black leather boots, and a jade belt accentuated her slim waist and long legs, making her look tall and straight, full of heroic charm.

Xi Lingxue, as usual, wore a moon-white gauze dress, ethereal and spotless, her indifferent eyes clear as autumn water, like morning dew at dawn.

With a delicate hand, she lifted the curtain and glanced outside. “The weather is nice, with light clouds and a gentle breeze.”

Jiang Ci: Yes, and tonight will be dark and windy, perfect for killing.

Xi Lingxue added, “But we left a bit late. We’ll have to return in an hour.”

The city gates closed at Shen hour, and if they were late, they would have to spend the night in the wild.

Jiang Ci popped a grape into her mouth and said leisurely, “It’s fine. This is just right.”

Xi Lingxue raised an eyebrow at her, “Didn’t you want to come out to relax? After preparing for half a day, you only plan to play for such a short time?”

“Isn’t eating and drinking well enough?” Jiang Ci smiled slightly. “Besides, the main point is to be out with you. Even a short while makes me happy.”

Xi Lingxue chuckled softly, “Smooth talker.”

Coming out to play but bringing guards along, I wonder what you’re really up to.

The sky was clear and blue, the cicadas chirped pleasantly under the green trees, and the carriage moved slowly through the forest. The group enjoyed the scenery along the way, savoring the leisurely summer afternoon.

Jiang Ci leaned on the window, closing her eyes to feel the gentle breeze. “No traffic jams, how nice…”

Xi Lingxue: “Traffic jams?”

This person is saying strange things again.

“Traffic jams mean there are too many people traveling, the roads are packed with carriages, and you can’t move at all.” Jiang Ci sighed. “Here, there’s no such worry. You can go anywhere smoothly. Just whip the horse, and off you go.”

Xi Lingxue couldn’t quite imagine how many people and carriages it would take to cause such a situation.

Finally, they arrived at the forest outside the city, the spot Jiang Ci had scouted earlier. Nearby was a winding stream with clear water.

By the stream, Jiang Ci set up the grill, added some charcoal, and once the fire was going, she brought out the prepared meat and vegetables to cook.

Xi Lingxue and Jin Yu sat around the grill, watching her work and occasionally helping. The guards rested at a distance.

Jiang Ci had been camping before and knew that too much fire would burn the outside while leaving the inside raw, so it was best to add less charcoal and cook slowly over a low flame.

Jiang Ci sprinkled some seasoning on the first batch of grilled beef, cut it into pieces with a small knife, and offered, “Try it?”

Xi Lingxue picked up a piece and took a small bite. It was unexpectedly delicious.

She hadn’t expected Gao Yi to be skilled at this.

Xi Lingxue said, “Very good, the heat was just right.”

Jin Yu was more enthusiastic, “Wow, Marquis, you can do everything!”

She was almost in awe of Gao Yi now!

She stuffed two more pieces into her mouth, chewing like a hamster, her cheeks bulging.

Jiang Ci laughed, “Slow down, no one’s competing with you. There’s plenty more.”

…

Time passed, and the sun began to set. The three of them were full and satisfied, with less than an hour left before the city gates closed.

Jin Yu looked up at the sky, somewhat reluctant. “It’s getting late. Shouldn’t we head back?”

“What’s the rush? It’s still quite bright.” Jiang Ci suggested. “How about we play a game?”

“A game? Sure, sure!” Jin Yu’s interest was immediately piqued, her attention instantly diverted.

Jiang Ci thought, indeed, she’s so easy to fool.

She glanced at the silent black lotus. “Princess, would you like to join?”

Xi Lingxue smiled subtly, “What game?”

“Truth or Dare.” Jiang Ci looked directly into her eyes, a hint of challenge in her gaze. “Dare to play?”

Jin Yu looked confused, “What… what does that mean? How do you play?”

Jiang Ci explained, “We’ll spin this chopstick. Whoever it points to has to choose: answer a question truthfully or perform a dare. If you choose truth, you can’t lie, no matter what the question is. If you choose dare, you must do it, no matter what the request is.”

Jin Yu went, “Oh” “Sounds exciting…”

“Of course.” Jiang Ci smiled at Xi Lingxue, challenging her again. “So, Princess, dare to play?”

Xi Lingxue hesitated, her gaze fixed on Jiang Ci. After a while, she softly said, “How can I be sure you’re telling the truth?”

“I can’t be sure you’re telling the truth either.” Jiang Ci replied. “This is all based on trust.”

Jin Yu said, “That’s easy. We can all swear before we start.”

Jiang Ci was stunned. What? Swear?

…This is the first time I’ve seen such a solemn game.

Xi Lingxue nodded in agreement, “I think that’s a good idea.”

Jiang Ci was shocked, “You can’t be serious…”

The next moment, both of them raised their right hands, three fingers together by their ears.

Jiang Ci: “…”

What could she say? She had no choice but to join.

She suddenly felt like she had dug her own grave.

Jin Yu said solemnly, “I swear to heaven, if I break the rules of the game, may I be struck by lightning and never eat meat again.”

Jiang Ci shuddered.

Damn… that’s a harsh oath!

She had only suggested this game to buy time!

“Uh, Little King Kong,” Jiang Ci said weakly, “It’s just a game, no need—”

“What’s the big deal? Just follow the rules.” Jin Yu blinked her big eyes, frowning at her. “Unless you plan to lie?”

Jiang Ci opened her mouth but found no words to retort.

Xi Lingxue, calm and composed, also raised her right hand and said solemnly, “If I break the rules of the game, may heaven forsake me, and may I not die a peaceful death.”

Jiang Ci pursed her lips, trembling.

…You’re all so cruel.

After Xi Lingxue finished, she glanced over with a sly smile, “Your turn.”

Jiang Ci: “…”

Could she say breaking the rules would make her a dog…

Well, obviously not.

She wanted to ask, is this a game or a life-and-death situation?

After a while, Jiang Ci sighed heavily and raised her hand, “I—”

Both women on either side stared at her intently, not blinking.

She licked her lips. What to do? It seemed like she had to make a harsh oath to fit in…

After a moment, she suddenly had an idea and said seriously, “If Gao Yi breaks the rules of the game, may she never be able to mark anyone for life.”

After she finished, for some reason, both women fell silent.

Jiang Ci suddenly felt awkward, “No… not harsh enough?”

Both looked at her with complex expressions.

After a long pause, Xi Lingxue lowered her eyes, “That’s enough. Let’s begin.”

Jiang Ci finally breathed a sigh of relief.

That was close…

She had managed to bluff her way through!

Although the oath was harsh, she thought that if she could get a few truths out of the black lotus, it would be worth it!

With only three people, the odds were high!

In the first round, Jiang Ci spun the chopstick, and it landed on Jin Yu.

Jin Yu was excited, raising her hand and shouting, “It’s me! It’s me!”

Jiang Ci’s mouth twitched. Silly girl, what’s there to be happy about…

Jiang Ci coughed, “Alright, choose: truth or dare.”

Jin Yu: “I choose dare!”

“Okay, then—” Jiang Ci looked at Xi Lingxue, “Do you want to set the dare, or should I?”

Xi Lingxue said, “You can set it for the first round. We’ll take turns after that.”

“Alright, then I’ll set it.” Jiang Ci thought for a moment, then glanced around. She pointed, “See that tree? Pluck the leaf from the very top.”

“…That’s it?”

Jin Yu went over and kicked the tree twice, causing a shower of leaves.

Jiang Ci: “…”

Forgot, this girl is a little king kong.

Jiang Ci waved her hand, “Alright, alright, come back. Next round!”

In the second round, as Jiang Ci spun the chopstick, she silently chanted Xi Lingxue! Xi Lingxue!

But it landed on Jin Yu again.

The third round, the fourth round… up to the seventh round, every time it was Jin Yu.

Jiang Ci was speechless. This girl was a black hole for the game.

Jin Yu had gone through several rounds of truth and dare, and no matter what the dare was—climbing trees to catch birds or fishing in the stream—the little king kong managed to do it all with her brute strength.

In the eighth round, it was truth.

Jiang Ci asked helplessly, “…Where did you get all this strength?”

Jin Yu answered truthfully, “I took the wrong medicine when I was a kid.”

Jiang Ci: “???”

Seriously?

Ant-strength pills?!

In the ninth round, just as Jiang Ci thought the game would continue like this forever, the chopstick finally pointed to her.

“Gao Yi…” Xi Lingxue raised an eyebrow, smiling playfully. “Choose.”

Jiang Ci felt like vomiting bl00d.

Why? How did the black lotus not get chosen even once?

Is this the protagonist’s halo?!

“I choose truth.”

“Alright.”

Xi Lingxue looked at her, her clear, picturesque eyes suddenly sharp, as if trying to see through her.

Jiang Ci swallowed, feeling a bit nervous.

Xi Lingxue stared at her, gradually losing her smile and leaning closer.

“Why… are you helping me?”

Jiang Ci’s heart skipped a beat. In the chaotic rhythm, she met Xi Lingxue’s gaze. Those cold eyes now seemed like a pair of hands, reaching out, entangling her, trying to strip away her outer shell and peer into her deepest thoughts…

Jiang Ci was momentarily dazed, breaking out in a cold sweat.

Testing me again…

Why does there have to be a reason?

Isn’t my intention clear enough?

“I’ve said it before.” Jiang Ci smiled, her eyes bright and clear like a spring. “In my eyes, you’re the best.”

“Because I like you.”