SLLBTT Chapter 73
Translated by Q the Panda (ko-fi)
⋇⊶⊰Chapter 73⊱⊷⋇
Queen Ming plotted rebellion, attempting to assassinate the Snow Wolf King, but was slain by Bai Lingling beneath the steps of Qingque Terrace.
Essentially, the rebellion was Queen Ming's doing alone, unrelated to Bai Lingling. Bai Lingling, in fact, became a highly esteemed hero for protecting the monarch.
The Snow Wolf King naturally didn't hold Bai Lingling accountable for those seemingly treasonous acts, even commending him. Meanwhile, Bai Lingling resided in the palace under the pretext of "aiding in restoring order."
In truth, the Snow Wolf King only knew Bai Lingling couldn't bear to part with Leng Jiao, so he provided an excuse for him to stay.
Leng Jiao currently served as the Noble Consort, managing affairs in the six palaces.
Bai Lingling believed the Snow Wolf King's actions were wrong. "Leng Jiao was just rescued from Qingque Terrace, still not in the best health. How could you let him continue working?"
The Snow Wolf King replied, "He is my Noble Consort. It is only right."
While the statement was true, Bai Lingling became angered upon hearing it.
As Liu Jiao entered the hall, he witnessed two large snow wolves engaged in a fierce brawl.
Forgot to mention, Liu Jiao still held the position of Chief Guard.
Seeing someone audaciously biting the Snow Wolf King, Liu Jiao, in his role as the Chief Guard, instinctively leaped forward with a resounding howl, pouncing onto Bai Lingling's back and sinking his teeth in.
Bai Lingling swiftly flicked his large tail, sending Liu Jiao tumbling down.
At this moment, the Snow Wolf King ceased his attack on Bai Lingling, instead pouncing on Liu Jiao and providing him with a protective cushion.
"Attacking me is one thing, but how dare you attack my Chief Guard?"
Bai Lingling retorted, "Taking a beating for the Snow Wolf King is part of a guard's duty!"
After a moment of contemplation, the Snow Wolf King summoned Hong Huli, "Spread the word to the Noble Consort. Tonight, I'll host a banquet in honor of Bai Lingling. Ensure he organizes a decent feast before sundown."
"You!" Bai Lingling's expression shifted.
You strike Liu Jiao, and I'll handle Leng Jiao!
The Snow Wolf King's strategy unfolded.
"Baa?!" Leng Jiao, still managing the palace's accounts, was taken by surprise as Hong Huli arrived to announce a new task.
"Yes, Noble Consort," replied Hong Huli.
Thinking he misheard, Leng Jiao tugged at the white fur beside his sheep horn and asked, "Are you sure it's tonight?"
"Absolutely sure, Noble Consort," Hong Huli confirmed, "The Great King ordered a banquet that's 'decent,' not the usual family gathering."
Nodding, Leng Jiao said, "Alright. I understand. Please go back and inform the Great King that I will make it impeccable, not disappointing his expectations."
Hong Huli then took his leave.
Leng Jiao sighed, "Being a Noble Consort is truly challenging."
Before long, Liu Jiao bounced over to Leng Jiao's door with a smile. "Jiao'er, let's go out and have some fun!"
Leng Jiao, feeling overwhelmed, replied, "No, I have to prepare for tonight's banquet."
Liu Jiao asked, "Is it that difficult?"
"Yes," Leng Jiao thought for a moment, then whispered to Liu Jiao, "How about this, ask the Great King not to have the banquet tonight?"
"Why? Banquets are lively and enjoyable!"
Leng Jiao finally understood. "So, you want a banquet!"
"?" Liu Jiao quickly shook his head, "No, I didn't want anything. The Great King said he wanted to host a banquet for Lord Bai."
Leng Jiao furrowed his brows. "Lord Bai?"
Liu Jiao pulled a chair beside Leng Jiao and said, "By the way, what do you think of Lord Bai?"
"What do I think of Lord Bai?" Leng Jiao pondered for a moment, then mused, "Lord Bai isn't a human."
"Oh..."
Seeing Leng Jiao genuinely occupied with various matters and palace attendants bustling around reporting things, Liu Jiao decided not to disturb him. He left Nishang Palace where Leng Jiao resided. As soon as Liu Jiao stepped out, Bai Lingling stood before him, asking, "What did Leng Jiao say?"
Liu Jiao reported truthfully, "Leng Jiao said you're not a human."
"......"
In the evening, preparations were underway to entertain Bai Lingling.
Although it was a last-minute task given by the Snow Wolf King in the afternoon, Leng Jiao managed everything with precision, avoiding any disrespect.
Inside the hall, colorful lanterns illuminated the scene, with graceful songs and dances indicating thoughtful preparation. The Snow Wolf King nodded in approval, simply stating that Leng Jiao did well.
Bai Lingling wasn't feeling content inside.
Hearing the Snow Wolf King's praise, Leng Jiao promptly stood up, expressing gratitude and raising his glass.
Bai Lingling also stood, toasting Leng Jiao, "Thanks to the Noble Consort for hosting this banquet. During my time in the palace, I greatly appreciate the Noble Consort's hospitality. I have no way to repay the kindness. In gratitude, I plan to present you a small gift."
Leng Jiao, upon hearing this, quickly responded, "It's what I should do. I dare not accept Lord Bai's gift."
Bai Lingling insisted, "It's nothing valuable. You need not worry."
Saying so, Bai Lingling had someone bring in a fish tank containing an oddly unique large fish with a mouth full of sharp, irregular teeth.
"This fish is truly..." Leng Jiao seemed like he wanted to say "This fish is truly ugly," but he collected himself and said, "This fish is truly uniquely charming."
"This deep-sea anglerfish is a gift for the Noble Consort."
The silk and bamboo music, along with the elegant dance, added to the ambiance of the banquet.
To make the banquet appear more "decent," the musicians and performers from the orchestra took the stage. One particularly striking male performer, clad in a gorgeous crimson robe, showcased graceful moves with delicate, flowing steps.
Leng Jiao kept his eyes fixed on that male performer throughout.
During rehearsals, this performer often stumbled in this particular dance segment, causing anxiety for Leng Jiao. Hence, he paid extra attention to the details of this male performer.
However, Leng Jiao maintained his dignity, not glaring overtly, just stealing occasional glances. Yet, Bai Lingling noticed this and couldn't resist scrutinizing the male performer. To him, he appeared enchanting with his flamboyant attire and heavy makeup, but certainly not attractive!
The more Bai Lingling watched, the more irked he became, and his gaze intensified until it practically bore holes into the performer's back.
The Snow Wolf King also observed this and, when the dance concluded, he chuckled. "What's the name of this red-robed male performer?"
Leng Jiao stepped forward and replied, "He is a newcomer from the orchestra, a snake demon named Wen Yi."
"Wen what...?" Liu Jiao didn't catch it immediately.
Leng Jiao explained, "Wen Yi, as in the poems that say 'Wen Yi Yuan Fei Qi' or 'Fang Zhou Dang Wen Yi.' It refers to the ever-changing ripples."
"So complicated, 'Duo Bo' would be cleaner," Bai Lingling criticized.
Leng Jiao's expression shifted slightly.
Wen Yi couldn't help but interject, "Originally, I was named 'Wen Yì,' but 'Wen Yī' was given as an artistic name by the Noble Consort."
Upon hearing that Leng Jiao bestowed the name, Bai Lingling choked a bit. "Well... it does sound better than Wen Yì."
The Snow Wolf King, however, remarked, "What? I think 'Duo Bo' sounds better. Xiao Jiao, what do you think?"
Liu Jiao, busy gnawing on chicken claws, looked perplexed. "If the Great King says it's good, then it's good."
After some consideration, the Snow Wolf King suggested, "Alright, since Bai Lingling seems interested in Wen Yi. Tomorrow, Wen Yi, you shall visit Bai Lingling's palace again. Present a solo dance."
Bai Lingling's expression shifted at the words, but before Bai Lingling could refuse, the Snow Wolf King continued, "Dismissed." With that, the Snow Wolf King led Liu Jiao back to the sleeping quarters.
As the Commander of the Royal Guards, Liu Jiao, who accompanied the Snow Wolf King everywhere, had no objections. Once back in the quarters, Liu Jiao lay on the bed and saw the Snow Wolf King open the harem system.
"So, flipping the signboard is done with a computer?"
"Yes," the Snow Wolf King said, "How else do you think?"
"I thought there was a real board," Liu Jiao replied, "with all the names of the consorts written on it."
The Snow Wolf King explained, "That used to be the case, but now we prioritize environmental conservation, opting for electronic office management."
"Oh," Liu Jiao peered at the tablet and suggested, "How about inviting Leng Jiao tonight?"
"?!" The Snow Wolf King was genuinely surprised. "Do you mean..."
"I want to play Fight with the Landlord."
The Snow Wolf King, resigned, said, "Get another person then. I still have to complete my diligent governance tasks." With that, the Snow Wolf King casually selected Bai Juan.
Bai Juan and Leng Jiao arrived at a side hall in the Snow Hall on the Wolf Mountain, joining Liu Jiao for a game of cards. Bai Juan lost several rounds and accused Leng Jiao and Liu Jiao of cheating. Leng Jiao retorted, "I am the Noble Consort, do you dare accuse me of cheating?"
Bai Juan, furious, asserted, "Of course, I dare!"
Leng Jiao then commanded, "Guards! Drag Bai Juan out and give him a good lesson!"
Bai Juan shouted protests of innocence as he was dragged away.
Liu Jiao exclaimed in surprise, "Are you always this fierce?"
"Being a Noble Consort is usually so laborious. On occasion, you have to assert some authority."
Saying so, Leng Jiao rested his cheek on his hand, played with the cards, and added, "Aren't you attending the night service tonight?"
"The Great King needs to complete diligent governance tasks."
"Is that so?" Leng Jiao thought for a moment but said, "Let me see your neck."
Liu Jiao leaned in to show his neck to Leng Jiao. Leng Jiao took a bit of a peculiar-smelling balm from his pocket, rubbed it in his palms, and gently massaged it onto Liu Jiao's nape.
Liu Jiao felt a warm sensation on his neck and asked, "What is this?"
"This is the 'Secret Fragrance' I obtained after overseeing the affairs of the six palaces," Leng Jiao said as he continued to massage Liu Jiao's neck. "It is said that after the Snow Wolf King favors someone, he will leave a mark on their neck. The mark disappears overnight and can only be revealed using this Secret Fragrance."
"Is it really that magical?" Liu Jiao was quite surprised.
"Otherwise, how could they say that those not favored by the Great King within a year can leave the palace? Without an objective criterion, this method wouldn't work."
As he spoke, Leng Jiao felt that he had rubbed Liu Jiao's neck quite red but still hadn't seen the rumored teeth marks. "What's wrong? Why can't I still see it?"
Liu Jiao, however, replied, "Of course not. I'm still a vir*gin."
"Baa?!"