bayedsolid Chapter 14 Outwitting the Mountain Bandits
Chapter 14 Outwitting the Mountain Bandits
The bandit leader suddenly ripped off the seal on Lin Xiaoqian's mouth, a nauseatingly wicked smile on his face. He reached out his rough hand and caressed her face wantonly, his words even more filthy: "Little beauty, don't be afraid, I won't hurt you. As long as you behave, I will make you feel like you're in heaven, very comfortable."
Faced with such despicable humiliation, Lin Xiaoqian was burning with anger, but she took a deep breath, suppressing her rage and disgust, and still glared at him fiercely, her eyes filled with disdain and determination, a stark contrast to the original owner's cowardly nature. She knew that acting rashly now would only put her in a more dangerous situation, and she had to come up with a well-thought-out plan.
Suddenly, an idea struck her. Lin Xiaoqian suppressed the anger in her eyes and said in a feignedly weak tone, "Hmph, if you really had feelings for me, why were you so rude? Look at your men, they all seem clever and capable. Why are they doing this robbery business in the middle of nowhere, living a life of uncertainty?"
The bandit leader was taken aback by her words and asked in confusion, "Young lady, what do you mean by that?"
Lin Xiaoqian smiled lightly and said calmly, "Think about it. In this world, although the situation is turbulent, there are opportunities everywhere. You and your brothers have such skills. If you can serve the court, after being granted amnesty, you will be legitimate officials with stable salaries and be respected. With your abilities, you can definitely get a position. At that time, what kind of beauties wouldn't you have? Why live in this dangerous place, living in fear and bearing a bad reputation?"
The bandits exchanged bewildered glances and whispered amongst themselves. Lin Xiaoqian pressed his advantage, continuing, "My family has some connections in the court. If you trust me, I'm willing to act as a go-between and make this happen. Moreover, the people in this area live in poverty. If Your Majesty could lead your brothers to protect them instead of robbing them, the people would be eternally grateful, erecting a longevity tablet for Your Majesty and spreading your virtuous name. Wouldn't that be a thousand times better than being bandits?"
The bandit leader pondered for a moment, his resolve wavering, but he still harbored some doubts: "Little girl, do you really believe what you're saying? If we were to surrender, would the imperial court truly accept us?"
Lin Xiaoqian nodded firmly: "Don't worry, I guarantee it with my life. As long as you are willing to change, I will do my best to help you."
Upon hearing this, the bandits gathered around, discussing the matter amongst themselves. They were now caught in a dilemma. Some bandits felt Lin Xiaoqian's words made sense; banditry was not a long-term solution, and they longed for a peaceful life after being granted amnesty. Others worried that the imperial court wouldn't truly accept them, and that surrendering would be like walking into a trap.
The bandit leader paced back and forth in the cave, frowning, his mind in turmoil. Seeing this, Lin Xiaoqian said, "I know you don't trust me, and you must be wondering why I should help you!"
Upon hearing this, the bandit leader frowned even more deeply, scrutinizing her intently, hesitating to speak, "What did you say?"
Lin Xiaoqian remained calm and smiled as she said, "If you hesitate and can't make up your mind, you might as well do as I say. You can keep an eye on me. I won't dare to have any ulterior motives while I'm working under your noses. If we help you gain everyone's trust, then you'll have a worry-free life here." After saying that, she pouted and pursed her lips with a smug look on her face.
Upon hearing this, the bandit leader fell into deep thought.