Don't Provoke the Black Lotus O [Transmigration Novel] - Chapter 32

32: The Banquet at Hongmen

Jiang Ci felt somewhat embarrassed. After all, she was a Qianjun, and Gao Yi’s body was so robust, with off-the-charts combat prowess. How could she let a Kunjun protect her?

If Pei Shiyuan were to cause trouble, she was confident she could handle it.

However, Jiang Ci’s heart was still stirred by Xi Lingxue’s words.

Why is she so kind…

Thinking this, Jiang Ci reached out and held Xi Lingxue’s hand. The other woman paused for a moment but didn’t pull away.

The two held hands, and Jiang Ci felt immensely satisfied. It seemed that with this progress, the divorce might not happen after all.

All the officials and royals took their seats, with the emperor sitting at the head of the table, flanked by the empress and Consort Yao, exuding an air of solemnity and dignity. Before the banquet began, the emperor naturally had to give a speech, with the eunuch announcing the rewards for General Pei. The Prince of Duan, who had contributed to the military campaign, also received some benefits.

All the officials congratulated General Pei and the Prince of Duan, while also flattering the emperor.

The banquet finally began, with eunuchs serving dishes one after another—braised pigeon, roasted lamb leg, crab roe with fresh mushrooms, and more. A variety of delicacies and fine wines were continuously served.

Jiang Ci eagerly picked up her chopsticks, her appetite thoroughly whetted.

So many delicious foods at a palace banquet! They should hold more of these!

Xi Lingxue looked at her with a smile in her eyes, “Take it slow, there are more dishes to come.”

Jiang Ci: “Alright, alright, I’ll eat less now and save some room.”

Soon, dancers entered the hall. The sound of bells and chimes filled the air, accompanied by melodious music.

Although these dancers were Zhongjun, they were all stunningly beautiful, with tall, slender figures, narrow shoulders, and delicate waists. Their movements were graceful and captivating.

The Prince of Duan was so entranced that he forgot to eat. The crown prince, however, remained composed, occasionally exchanging a few words with those around him.

Xi Lingxue’s gaze kept drifting to Jiang Ci, always attentive to her reactions.

Jiang Ci was indeed captivated, putting down her chopsticks after just a few bites, resting her chin on her hand as she commented.

“Their skills are quite good, very stable.”

“How long have they been practicing this dance?”

“Wow, can male Kunjun really be so flexible? Impressive.”

“…” Xi Lingxue placed a piece of meat in her bowl, “Less watching, more eating.”

As the dance ended, the next segment of the banquet began—poetry recitation.

Yao Zhi composed a poem on the spot, which was decent but unremarkable. He provocatively looked at Jiang Ci and said, “I heard that Marquis Dingyuan has been buried in his study these days, studying hard and rarely going out. How about composing a poem for us to see?”

With Gao Yi’s personality, she wouldn’t tolerate such provocation.

Yao Zhi wanted to provoke her, knowing that with her limited literary skills, any poem she composed would be laughable.

A few at the banquet were indeed intrigued and joined in, urging Gao Yi to give it a try.

Xi Lingxue frowned.

Another provocation, the second time.

If it weren’t for the crowd at the palace banquet, she would have loved to make Yao Zhi suffer the same fate as his sister—publicly bleeding from the nose.

Jiang Ci didn’t take the bait, smiling as she sipped her wine, “I haven’t been burying myself in books, just reading some novels. Poetry is the forte of you scholars, so I won’t participate.”

“That’s not true.” Yao Zhi wasn’t about to let her off so easily, “Who says a military general can’t compose poetry? Marquis Dingyuan, don’t be modest.”

Jiang Ci replied bluntly, “I can’t.”

Although she had memorized many ancient poems, she didn’t want to use them here.

Mainly because she feared it would cause a sensation.

Since Gao Yi’s persona was that of someone with no literary talent, she simply refused, not bothering to engage with Yao Zhi, the clown.

The system suddenly chimed in, 【Oh, host, you actually remember the character setting.】

Jiang Ci: 【Shut up, useless system.】

System: 【…】

With that, Yao Zhi couldn’t push further, feeling as if he had punched cotton.

A simple “I can’t” dismissed everything, and she had the nerve to say it!

Yao Zhi was frustrated, his anger with no outlet.

Jiang Ci continued to enjoy the food and drink, as the palace banquet offered so many delicacies!

However, the night was destined to be eventful. As Yao Zhi retreated, another voice spoke up.

“If poetry isn’t your thing, then wielding swords must be, right, Marquis Dingyuan?”

Jiang Ci paused her chopsticks. She looked up and saw that the challenging voice indeed came from Pei Shiyuan.

Jiang Ci: Why is everyone targeting me today…

The palace banquet has turned into a Hongmen Banquet!

The crown prince narrowed his eyes, sipping his wine, feeling that today’s events were full of drama, one after another, all directed at Gao Yi.

Behind her, a eunuch quietly approached, bending to pour wine.

The crown prince didn’t lift his eyes, “Wait for the right moment.”

The eunuch: “Understood.”

…

Pei Yun looked somewhat displeased and said in a low voice, “Yu’an.”

Although she also disliked Gao Yi, the other party was now Xi Lingxue’s lord, and she didn’t want to cause trouble.

Pei Shiyuan paid no heed, directly requesting the emperor, “Your Majesty, I boldly wish to spar with Marquis Dingyuan.”

Xi Lingxue immediately interjected, “That’s unnecessary. Swords have no eyes, and someone might get hurt.”

Pei Shiyuan was taken aback, not expecting Xi Lingxue to be so protective of her. She must have been deceived by her sweet words!

Yao Zhi suddenly chimed in, “A friendly match, no harm will come. Unless… the princess has no confidence in Marquis Dingyuan?”

Xi Lingxue bit her lip, glaring at Yao Zhi.

Yao Zhi: Ah~ even the princess’s angry expression is beautiful~

Jiang Ci: “…”

She reached out and tugged Xi Lingxue’s sleeve: Ignore him, he’s enjoying this too much.

Both were outstanding among the younger generation, one a Qianjun, the other a Kunjun. The emperor was genuinely curious to see how this match would unfold.

He said, “Gao Yi, are you willing to accept the challenge?”

Jiang Ci thought, since you’ve asked like this, how can I refuse?

Fine, it’s just a friendly match. She was now quite accustomed to Gao Yi’s body and knew the martial techniques well, so handling this shouldn’t be a problem.

Qianjun naturally had the advantage, and in the original plot, Gao Yi’s combat prowess was superior to Pei Shiyuan’s.

Besides, she had already declined the poetry challenge. If she refused the martial one too, she would truly be seen as lacking in both.

Jiang Ci said, “I am willing.”

“Good,” the emperor said, “Bring the swords.”

Xi Lingxue was secretly anxious. Gao Yi still didn’t know about the gland issue, and her stamina must have declined significantly these days…

Soon, the eunuchs presented two long swords, and Jiang Ci and Pei Shiyuan each took one.

The hall was spacious, and the two stood in the center, facing each other with swords in hand.

Pei Shiyuan was a martial arts fanatic. Jiang Ci thought that if she could win, it might improve her image in the other’s eyes.

Jiang Ci casually twirled her sword, “Miss Pei, my apologies.”

Pei Shiyuan’s expression was cold. She was already a stunning beauty, and her black martial attire added a touch of heroism.

Quite cool, Jiang Ci thought. In a few years, she’ll probably be a full-fledged, cool and chic sister!

The Prince of Duan watched intently, marveling at such a Kunjun in the world. It’s just a pity that Pei Shiyuan’s standards for a partner were too strict—they had to surpass her in martial arts. Among the Qianjun who had challenged her so far, none had succeeded. As a result, she remained unmarried.

As for Gao Yi… with her skills, she might stand a chance?

Everyone’s attention was on them, eagerly anticipating the match.

Pei Shiyuan didn’t respond, directly lunging with her sword. Jiang Ci immediately countered.

Both were skilled, their movements swift. Silver sword shadows flashed in the air, sparks flying with each clash.

The onlookers were mesmerized, and the emperor didn’t even blink.

Xi Lingxue’s expression darkened, her attention fixed anxiously on Jiang Ci.

At first, things went smoothly, but soon Jiang Ci began to feel overwhelmed.

Leaving aside Jin Yu’s incredible strength, had Pei Shiyuan also taken some kind of drug? Why was she so strong?

After more than a dozen exchanges, Jiang Ci’s hands were numb, her grip trembling.

If this continued, she would surely lose.

Jiang Ci couldn’t understand whether it was due to her opponent or if something was wrong with her own body.

Last time, when she struggled with Yao Zhi, she thought it was because her gland injury hadn’t healed. But now, the wound had scabbed over, and only the gland’s function hadn’t fully recovered. It shouldn’t be like this…

Pei Shiyuan also noticed that her opponent’s speed had noticeably slowed. She sneered inwardly, thinking that Gao Yi’s reputation was overblown—her skills were nothing special.

Jiang Ci tried her best to hold on. The disadvantage wasn’t obvious, and most military officials wouldn’t notice. But Pei Yun’s sharp eyes saw through it immediately.

It was good that her daughter could win, but not in such a setting.

Humiliating Gao Yi wouldn’t achieve much—she was still Xi Lingxue’s lord.

Pei Yun immediately leaped forward, blocking her daughter’s sword, “That’s enough.”

Pei Shiyuan was puzzled, “Mother, what are you doing? I was about to—”

Pei Yun’s eyes held a warning.

The emperor, who had been captivated, finally came back to his senses.

The two had fought so intensely that continuing could lead to an accident.

“Good, good.” he clapped and laughed, “Whether Qianjun or Kunjun, both are talents of our kingdom! Rewards!”

With his words, the officials immediately echoed, “Your Majesty is wise, may heaven bless our kingdom!”

Yao Zhi reluctantly joined in, seething with anger.

Damn Gao Yi, she even got rewarded?!

…

Jiang Ci struggled back to her seat, trying to control her breathing so as not to appear too out of breath.

Xi Lingxue quickly leaned over, using a handkerchief to wipe the sweat from Jiang Ci’s forehead, her voice soft, “…Are you alright?”

Jiang Ci’s complexion wasn’t great. After a moment, she said, “Call Zhang Chengji tomorrow.”

Xi Lingxue’s hand froze, knowing that such a request meant Jiang Ci had noticed something unusual about her body.

However, Zhang Chengji wouldn’t tell her the truth.

Xi Lingxue’s eyes darkened, a flicker of conflict in her heart. After a moment, she still replied calmly, “Alright.”

The banquet continued, the hall filled with the clinking of cups and lively chatter.

Yao Qin took the opportunity to offer a toast to Consort Yao.

Coincidentally, Consort Yao had many questions for her lately. From what she observed, since the banquet began, Gao Yi had completely ignored Yao Qin. Instead, it was Xi Lingxue who seemed truly affectionate with Gao Yi.

Jiang Ci glanced at Yao Qin and then looked away. She had no reason to stop Yao Qin from approaching her aunt. She just hoped Yao Qin would behave and not stir up any more trouble.

Xi Lingxue leaned in, speaking softly to her, “Tired? Shall we leave soon?”

Jiang Ci estimated that it was about time and replied, “Alright, I’ll call Yao Qin back in a moment.”

Across the table, Pei Shiyuan watched the two sitting so close, feeling extremely displeased.

Sister, don’t be fooled! That scoundrel Gao Yi is a womanizer, totally unworthy!

Back when she and Gao Yi were on a campaign together, this woman would seek out young, beautiful Kunjun in every town they passed, indulging in nightly revelries. Others might not know, but Pei Shiyuan was well aware.

Several Qianjun approached Pei Shiyuan during the banquet, but she impatiently brushed them off. Finally, she grabbed a jug of wine and headed towards Jiang Ci.

Pei Yun sighed but didn’t stop her. Her daughter had always looked down on Gao Yi.

Jiang Ci was chatting with Xi Lingxue when she noticed a black figure out of the corner of her eye. She immediately knew who it was.

“Gao Yi!” Pei Shiyuan slammed her hand on the table, “If we can’t spar with swords, let’s compete with wine!”

Gao Yi had terrible drinking manners. Once drunk, her true colors would show, and Xi Lingxue would see her for what she really was.

Pei Shiyuan was confident in her drinking ability. Back in the army, no soldier could outdrink her.

Jiang Ci raised an eyebrow, thinking, Little sister, you’re really determined to prove me unworthy in front of Xi Lingxue!

But Gao Yi’s alcohol tolerance wasn’t bad either!

Backing down would only make Pei Shiyuan dislike her more. Since she was Xi Lingxue’s close friend, Jiang Ci naturally wanted to get along with her. Besides, she would need her support in the future struggle for the throne.

Before Xi Lingxue could stop her, Jiang Ci picked up her cup and downed it in one go, “Bring it on!”

Pei Shiyuan snorted, muttering, “At least you’re straightforward.”

Xi Lingxue watched as the two drank jug after jug, eventually getting a bit tipsy. Pei Shiyuan’s cheeks were flushed.

Jiang Ci was slightly drunk but still clear-headed. She reached out and stopped Pei Shiyuan’s cup, “That’s enough. If you want to compete, come to the Marquis’s residence another day. I still need to take Xiaoxue home later, can’t get too drunk.”

Pei Shiyuan had initially thought she was being decent, her opinion of her slightly improving. But upon hearing the term “Xiaoxue” she grabbed Jiang Ci’s collar, “Who said you could call her that?”

Jiang Ci was baffled: Why not? I’ve been calling her that since the first day I transmigrated!

“Shiyuan, enough.”

This low voice carried a hint of warning. Pei Shiyuan sobered up a bit. She looked over and saw Xi Lingxue’s expression was dark and terrifying.

For this scoundrel?! You’re in too deep, sister!

But for now, Pei Shiyuan had no choice but to let go.

Another day, then! She would definitely expose this scoundrel’s mask of hypocrisy!

Pei Yun quietly drank her wine, watching as her daughter stormed back. She said, “I’ve noticed that Gao Yi has changed quite a bit compared to before.”

Pei Shiyuan snorted, unconvinced, “It’s all an act! She’s good at sweet-talking Kunjun. Lingxue has been deceived by her!”

Pei Yun observed the scene across the table with a deep gaze, “Not necessarily.”

That child was far more perceptive than her daughter realized. She was no ordinary Kunjun, and deceiving her wouldn’t be easy.

Jiang Ci stayed a while longer, planning to use the restroom before leaving. She asked the Prince of Duan to keep an eye on Xi Lingxue.

The Prince of Duan was drunk, his face red and swaying, “Sure… sure!”

Jiang Ci: “…”

Mainly because he was sitting next to Xi Lingxue, and there was no one else nearby she could trust.

Xi Lingxue smiled softly, “I’m not a child. Just hurry back.”

Jiang Ci nodded and got up to leave.

Once she was gone, Xi Tingyue quietly glanced at her and said, “Sister, you seem much happier than before.”

“…Do I?” Xi Lingxue was slightly surprised.

“Yes,” Xi Tingyue’s eyes were wide and innocent, “Before, you never smiled, always cold and quiet. But just now, when you were talking with Gao Yi, it was different…”

As the two chatted, they didn’t notice that across the table, Pei Shiyuan sat for a moment before also following Jiang Ci out.

Meanwhile, a eunuch blending into the crowd, seemingly busy pouring wine, took note of everything.

After a long wait, the opportunity had finally come.

…

The night was deep, the darkness stretching endlessly into the distance. The moon hid behind clouds, casting a hazy glow.

After taking care of her business, Jiang Ci walked back along the path. The streetlights on either side were dim, providing only faint illumination, a stark contrast to the brightly lit, golden splendor of the main hall.

As she walked alone, a figure suddenly appeared ahead. The person was slender and tall, with a well-proportioned figure, exuding both beauty and strength—clearly a martial artist.

“…” Jiang Ci sighed, “Pei Shiyuan, do you hate me that much? You even followed me to the restroom?”

Was she planning to kill and dispose of the body here?!

“Gao Yi,” Pei Shiyuan said coldly, “If you know what’s good for you, divorce Lingxue tomorrow, and I won’t trouble you anymore.”

Jiang Ci scratched her ear, “That’s something you need to discuss with your best friend. Actually, I’ve already written a letter of divorce, but for now, we need to maintain our marital relationship for a year.”

“What?” Pei Shiyuan frowned, puzzled, “She requested this? You’d better tell me the truth.”

Jiang Ci said, “You can ask her yourself.”

Pei Shiyuan thought about it and decided she would. She glared at Jiang Ci, warning, “In that case, behave yourself this year. If you hurt her, I’ll chop off your hands!”

Seeing she wasn’t joking, Jiang Ci took a sharp breath, “Is there a possibility that I genuinely like her?”

“You?”

Pei Shiyuan looked as if she had heard a joke. A womanizer talking about genuine feelings?

Besides, Xi Lingxue would never accept her.

“Don’t joke, Gao Yi. You’re not worthy of her,” Pei Shiyuan said, “And Lingxue’s heart already belongs to someone else. No one else has a chance.”