Chapter 138: Showing Off Skilled Techniques in Front of the Martial Uncle, The Princess Breaks Down (3)
If the Empress won, she would deliver the intel to him first and gift him the collar.
At that point, she could take another step forward in gaining his trust and securing her safety.
So no matter the outcome, she would be safe—the ultimate victor who would have the last laugh!
Choosing the second path didn't mean complete submission; it simply meant buying more time to find a better opportunity.
With her past experience and the current intel, earning his trust again would be a breeze!
Once that happened, her future plans would become twice as effective with half the effort.
The ever-strategic Han "Zhuge" Jin Xiu couldn't help but admire her own brilliant plan.
Her smug satisfaction made it impossible to suppress the smile tugging at her lips.
"Are you happy? Because I sure am."
Su Qing said with a grin.
He casually wrapped an arm around Han Jin Xiu's plump waist, savoring the softness.
The plush, supple sensation was insanely satisfying. Older women really did know how to fill you up.
"Actually, there's something I wanted to tell you, but I don't quite know how to start."
Han Jin Xiu hummed softly to herself, then replied.
Let him feel smug for a moment. Soon, who ends up on top is anyone's guess.
In this moment, she deliberately avoided addressing him by title.
Calling him "Master"? In a little while, that might be flipped right back on him!
"Something you want to tell me? Just say it. What can't we talk about?"
"Out there, you're my aunt. In private, you're my dog. No need to hold back."
Su Qing said with easy confidence.
"Oh, your concubine... just doesn't know where to begin. Let me organize my thoughts first."
Han Jin Xiu's cheeks flushed as she whispered sweetly.
But inside, she scoffed again.
Organizing thoughts? What a joke. She was just stalling for time.
You little bastard, you better pray your Empress wins. Otherwise, I'll make you suffer!
You want me to be your dog? I'll have you barking on all fours, every damn day!
"Actually, even if you didn't say anything, I could probably guess. You believe that?"
Su Qing said with a smile, his expression relaxed.
Of course he knew everything. He didn't need to guess.
"Hmm? I don't believe it."
Han Jin Xiu blinked and shook her head, using a coquettish tone.
She spoke sweetly, but inside she was already grumbling.
You think I came with some surprise gift? What a fool.
Guess away. I'm happy to stall.
Once the outcome is clear, we'll see if you can still wear that smug face.
"Alright then, I'll just say it. Actually, it's a long story. I'll take my time."
"Let's start from the beginning—the connection between the rebels, the Heavenly Dao Sect, and your faction."
"The three of you have done plenty in the capital. You've collaborated in secret more than a few times."
Su Qing spoke calmly and deliberately.
The three factions all had their own goals, but worked together to achieve them.
Just like the recent operation—only on a larger scale than before.
"W-Why are you suddenly bringing this up?"
A flicker of confusion passed through the Princess's eyes as she responded casually.
But deep inside, a sense of dread began to bloom.
Could he know\...?
No, no! I'm the only one in the capital who knows these details!
Han Jin Xiu, don't scare yourself. Don't let anything slip!
"You asked me to talk, didn't you? Don't interrupt, I'm not finished."
"You all collaborated on a lot. I won't get into all of it."
"The latest major event was the attempted assassination of the Empress and myself. It looked like a failure."
"But in truth, you—or should I say, the masterminds—never intended it to succeed. It was too simple."
"Too easy to defend against, and too unlikely to accomplish your goals. So why bother?"
"Just a pretense—to exploit the chaos in the capital and the emptying of White Jade Pavilion... to invite a certain distinguished guest."
"Tell me, Princess Consort, am I wrong?"
Su Qing unraveled the events of the past two days with calm precision.
He didn't go into details, but what he said was more than enough.
There was no reply. Only silence.
Han Jin Xiu's smile had completely vanished.
She had always been confident—that confidence fueling her pride.
The Princess always believed herself above others, looking down from on high.
But this time, she was completely thrown off.
Every word from him punched holes through her pride.
At this moment, the Princess felt a chill run through her body.
She began to tremble slightly, her gaze growing panicked.
That dreadful feeling of being completely seen through by this young man came crashing back.
Just like when they first met—when he turned the tables by understanding her so thoroughly.
All the pressure she'd bottled up from repeatedly losing to him came flooding out.
It had always been there, suppressed by her pride.
Had she ever gained the upper hand, that pressure might've slowly faded.
But she never got the chance.
This whole ordeal was the spark that finally lit the fuse.
Like an avalanche, it shattered her emotional state. She couldn't maintain her composure or her expression.
"Why so quiet? I liked the way you looked just a moment ago. Now you seem a bit distant."
"Don't just stand there. I brought you a very special gift today."
"I hope once you see it, you'll cheer up a little."
Su Qing smiled.
With that, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a prepared gift.
As he drew it out, a crisp jingling sound rang through the room.
Han Jin Xiu immediately recognized what it was.
A collar—with bells!
In that instant, her vision went dark.
The things he just pulled out were a direct and devastating blow!
"Auntie, I'm someone who values loyalty and affection."
"Despite all your many crimes, I'm still willing to give you a chance to redeem yourself."
"Someone who loves me this deeply... should be more than happy to become my loyal little pet, right?"
Su Qing said seriously.
All his earlier casual attitude was gone. He looked strict and uncompromising now.
The loyal, patriotic Mr. Su never forgot his duties—no matter the situation!
"Huh?"