I never realized Li Qi harbored such feelings; she was acting like a child. So, I asked, a little perplexed, "What did he do to provoke you?"

Li Qi retorted, "Yes, look at the group of sycophantic women surrounding him. What’s so great about him? In every aspect, he’s inferior to you. Those women must be blind."

"Are you suggesting you want them fawning over me instead?"

"Of course not," Li Qi said, "but their lack of respect for you infuriates me. You are certainly no less capable than that Colonel Mu. It’s all my grandfather’s fault; after all this time, he never thought to award you a military rank. Otherwise, you’d already be a General, and he wouldn't have this moment in the spotlight."

I noticed some people were already moving to the center of the banquet hall to dance to the music. Gatherings like this were always casual—no formal host, no master of ceremonies. People ate when they wanted, danced when they felt like it—just free mingling to broaden one's social circle. "Stop getting worked up over nothing. Come on, let me ask you for a dance."

Dancing was, in part, the result of intensive training from my wives. Even though I’m clumsy on the dance floor, the opportunity to be physically close to my wife in public was thrilling. It also gave me face, showing other men that this unparalleled beauty was exclusively mine.

After only a few steps, Li Qi grew nervous. As she bent down slightly, she whispered in my ear, "Husband, watch your feet! If you step on me, you won't be forgiven tonight. Lots of people are watching you, so try to keep up."

Indeed, embracing Li Qi while dancing drew considerable attention. Although more than half the room now knew about my secondary role as a National Economic Advisor, there were still influential figures who held fantasies about Li Qi and would have loved to see me make a fool of myself so they could step in.

I was being meticulous, watching every step, but instead of me stepping on someone, someone stepped on me. The pain made me grind my teeth, and I almost retaliated, but I looked up and recognized the face—it was quite familiar.

The other man, holding his own partner, froze for a moment, unsure how to address me in such a public setting. His mouth moved, but no sound came out. Li Qi broke the silence first: "Commander Yao, what are you doing here?"

The man was Yao Guangrong, the Commander of the L Province Military Region. Because he and Commander Tai Yicheng of the CD Military Region were both former officers in the Tri-Service Corps, he was keenly aware of my identity. However, in this situation, he couldn't risk exposing anything, which left him tongue-tied regarding how to address me.

Since Li Qi had played a significant role in dealing with the former undesirable elements in the two military regions, Yao Guangrong knew her and was aware that she was now a young Minister in the Ministry of Supervision. "Minister Li, hello. I’m in the capital for a meeting. A friend of an elder introduced me around, so here I am. Let me introduce you—this is Miss Chi Nanrong. She works as a secretary in the municipal government."

Yao Guangrong, 31, and Qin Yicheng were both long-time bachelors. It seemed someone took the opportunity of the capital meeting to set them up with dates, and the date, Chi Nanrong, was attending this party, so Yao Guangrong was invited.

Chi Nanrong was the type of woman described as xiaojia biyu—delicate and refined. While not stunningly beautiful, she was quiet, graceful, and possessed the air of a virtuous homemaker. After the initial greetings and introductions, the two pairs agreed to get food and talk.

Chi Nanrong clearly wasn't a regular partygoer; she was quite reserved and seemed unfamiliar with Li Qi. However, she was curious about Li Qi achieving the rank of Minister at such a young age. Coupled with Li Qi’s deliberate efforts to get close to her, the two began chatting happily over fruit, giving Yao Guangrong a chance to discreetly snap a salute toward me.

I said, "From now on, let's be informal at these events. Stop being so stiff. I’ll call you Brother Yao, and you call me Little Zhao."

Yao Guangrong dared not agree. As a soldier, he maintained a clear distinction between superior and subordinate—it was ingrained in his duty. Yao Guangrong raised his glass to me instead: "Director Zhao, why are you only in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs? It’s too slow. When can we finally fight a few righteous wars openly? Just training the troops without action is as draining as the Navy’s inability to engage M and R freely."

I tried to reassure him, "Why rush? Focus on training your men well. There will always be a time they are needed. Maybe as soon as tomorrow."

The Ministry of Defense Colonel whom Li Qi disliked suddenly walked over to us. Following his gaze, it seemed he had taken notice of Yao Guangrong. Sure enough, he approached and saluted: "Commander Yao, may I join your table?"

The Colonel’s voice was loud, startling Chi Nanrong, who was sitting beside him. She clearly had no idea of Yao Guangrong’s true status. She exclaimed in surprise, "You... you are a Commander? Auntie only told me you were serving in the military!"

Yao Guangrong sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. He had specifically instructed that elder woman to tell Chi Nanrong only that much. He even wore plain clothes to the reception, not wanting her to be interested in him solely because of his rank. He desired a woman who valued him as a person.

Yao Guangrong remained silent, but the Colonel continued enthusiastically, detailing Yao Guangrong’s accomplishments: "Commander Yao is the Commander of the L Province Military Region and our army’s youngest Major General. He and Commander Qin of the CD Military Region are known as the 'Twin Dragons of the West.' The troops they train consistently take first and second place in all competitions, and both military regions boast the most advanced equipment in the entire armed forces. Commander Yao and Commander Qin are role models for the entire army."

Yao Guangrong didn't want to be praised excessively in front of me. He waved his hand dismissively: "Enough with the flattery. I don’t know which department you belong to."

The Colonel snapped another salute: "Reporting to the Director, Colonel Cheng Lingyun of the Ministry of Defense."

Yao Guangrong urged him, "Please, relax. This is a social gathering; no need to be so formal. Sit down and have a drink with us."

Although the Ministry of Defense holds high standing, they do not command troops; they answer to the Central Military Commission. In practical terms, their position is less enviable than that of a Military Region Commander who controls hundreds of thousands of soldiers—a position everyone envies. This explains why Mu Lingyun was so deferential to Yao Guangrong.

Li Qi showed no interest in Mu Lingyun. She pulled Chi Nanrong to one side of the table and continued their private conversation. Though Chi Nanrong was as new to Li Qi and Yao Guangrong, they both worked in capital government agencies, and women generally connect faster. She voiced her anxieties to Li Qi.

"Minister Li, I never imagined he was a Military Region Commander! How could such a huge matter be concealed? Our status difference makes a relationship unsuitable. You all seem close; could you perhaps explain things to Commander Yao for me?"

Li Qi disagreed instantly: "Who says it’s unsuitable? I’m Zhao Qian’s girlfriend. From the outside, don’t you think we are even more mismatched?"

Chi Nanrong felt awkward about lying, and she didn't know Li Qi’s boyfriend was a National Economic Advisor. A mere Director of the Foreign Affairs Ministry paired with a 'Princess' was, on the surface, even more absurd than her relationship with Yao Guangrong. She didn't outright agree but didn't disagree either, effectively giving silent assent to Li Qi's point.

Li Qi pressed on: "Then what do you believe is the foundation of love and marriage? If you always use worldly standards to find a partner, I can tell you with certainty you will never find someone who truly loves you and whom you love in return."

Chi Nanrong whispered, "But I’m not pretty, and my family background isn’t great. Commander Yao probably won’t favor me. I think I should leave now."

Li Qi grabbed her hand: "How do you know Commander Yao doesn't like you? If he didn't, he wouldn't be at this party, right? Hey, he's right there, let me ask him for you. You two make finding a relationship seem so complicated."

Without waiting for Chi Nanrong to stop her by tugging at her sleeve, Li Qi turned to Yao Guangrong: "Commander Yao, I want to ask you: what are your impressions of Little Chi? Do you intend to continue seeing her? Now that she knows you’re a Military Region Commander, she’s starting to have second thoughts. She’s a good girl. Tell us your intentions."

Li Qi’s words mortified Chi Nanrong, who blushed deeply, unsure how to react. Yao Guangrong, hearing that Chi Nanrong was having second thoughts due to his status, immediately grew anxious. He quickly swapped seats with Li Qi to sit next to Chi Nanrong, ignoring the several people watching them.

"Little Chi, I hid my rank not for any malicious reason, but because I feared you wouldn't be interested in rough-and-tumble military men like us. I wanted you to get to know my character first before slowly explaining my profession. You are a wonderful girl. From the moment I saw your photo, I couldn't forget you. Tonight, I’ve seen your gentle side. I... I feel my future life cannot be without you. If you think I'm an acceptable person, can we date a while longer and get to know each other better?"

Chi Nanrong also felt a strong attraction to Yao Guangrong; her hesitation only stemmed from realizing the disparity in their positions. Now, Yao Guangrong's frank admission made her heart flutter again. She nodded, blushing. Li Qi let out a delighted giggle: "Lovers finally united—that calls for a celebration! You two owe Li Qi and Zhao Qian a dinner soon. Now, go enjoy your time together; we won't disturb you."

Dancing is the best way to deepen affection. To say physical contact wasn't stirring was a lie. Yao Guangrong nodded to us, then led Chi Nanrong onto the dance floor.

Li Qi leaned over to me: "Commander Tai is even a year older than Commander Yao. I think we should help him sort out his romantic life too. They are too obsessed with the military; they have neither the time nor the inclination for romance. We have an obligation to help them, don't we?"

I nodded. Through this evening's events, I truly understood Li Qi's thoughtfulness. To make subordinates dedicated to their work, one must first show them genuine care and concern. I certainly needed to increase attention to the personal lives of the Tri-Service Corps officers—not just their meals, but their relationships too.

Mu Lingyun asked me, "Director Zhao, are you and Commander Yao, Commander Qin, very close? I hear your talent in economics is unmatched. I truly admire that."

Li Qi chimed in, "We admire you too, Colonel. Entering the Ministry of Defense so young, your future is limitless."

Mu Lingyun missed the undertone in Li Qi’s words, mistaking her comment for genuine praise. Frankly, he wasn't interested in the women surrounding him earlier; the only person who captivated him was the peerless 'Princess' standing before him. "Minister Li, you flatter me. But I am confident I can achieve the rank of Major General before I turn thirty-five. Colonel Zhao and I have different career paths; otherwise, we could really exchange insights."

Li Qi challenged him: "How do you know Zhao Qian only understands economics? Our goal is to become a General within a year."

Mu Lingyun froze, unable to grasp the implication behind Li Qi's statement. "Minister Li, are you suggesting Director Zhao plans to transition into the military? Will he give up his position as National Economic Advisor?"

"Who said he’s quitting? Colonel Mu, perhaps you are unaware of my boyfriend’s other title?" It seemed Li Qi was determined to put Mu Lingyun in his place today.

Mu Lingyun became curious. "I’d love to hear the details. Director Zhao’s leadership in helping our national enterprises triumph over the economic invasion by the M-nation earned my deep respect. I wonder what other talents he has yet to show us."

I had intended to stop Li Qi, but then I realized the Chairman had already decided to publicize my achievements. Why hide them now? Let her hype up this handsome guy she disliked.

Li Qi flashed my other work ID in front of Mu Lingyun: "National Security Advisor!" Although Mu Lingyun was a Colonel in the Ministry of Defense, this badge had rarely been seen by anyone outside a few people in the Military Commission. While forging documents wasn't impossible, forging one held by someone of Li Qi's standing was out of the question. So, despite his shock, Mu Lingyun fully believed the ID.

The title of National Security Advisor carried no military rank; it was essentially a private think tank position. However, fewer than five people in Great Dragon Country held this title, and the other four were white-haired elders. Mu Lingyun regained his composure: "Director Zhao, you truly keep a low profile. But how is it that the Ministry of Defense has received no intelligence about such a significant position?"

Li Qi answered, "Colonel Mu, do you remember the Chen Wanzhi case? The state will soon declassify a batch of archives. You will receive the notice then."

Mu Lingyun was sharp. Chen Wanzhi’s treason—stealing the intelligent navigation system from the High-End Weapons Research Institute and his subsequent secret capture and execution—was highly classified. The fact that this matter connected to the person before him, involving Ming Island and the M-nation, demanded extreme secrecy. It was perfectly normal that he didn't recognize this young Security Advisor.

Mu Lingyun understood that many people had misjudged Director Zhao earlier, assuming he rose through Li Qi’s connections. In reality, he must possess real strength. Commander Yao from L Province had shown him immense deference; he must have learned many inside details.

"Advisor Zhao, please forgive my earlier disrespect. I toast you." Mu Lingyun raised his glass to me.

Seeing Mu Lingyun finally willing to concede, Li Qi was delighted and joined us in the toast. Mu Lingyun then pulled out his wallet and pointed to a photo inside: "Besides Minister Li, these three are the new generation I admire most in Great Dragon Country. Now, Advisor Zhao joins their ranks."

Li Qi originally wasn't genuinely upset with Mu Lingyun; she just resented him stealing my thunder. Now that the tables had turned, she dropped her icy demeanor. She took Mu Lingyun's wallet and showed me the photo: "Look at this guy, trying to keep these three women's pictures around! Don't get jealous, honey. Having a fan is normal."

The photo showed Yi Xiaorou and the Zhao sisters, Zhao Fen and Zhao Fang, all looking spirited in their military uniforms. I had a copy of this group shot at home. I remarked to Li Qi, "Xiaorou is like you; she always wears a poker face and never smiles for photos."

Hearing this, Mu Lingyun couldn't help but say, "Advisor Zhao really knows Major General Yi? It seems the rumors outside are true. This picture was taken during the ceremony where those three were promoted to Major General upon joining the Central Specialized Committee. It’s been published in many newspapers; it's not strange that I have a copy."

Li Qi asked Mu Lingyun, "What rumors are circulating outside?"

Mu Lingyun instantly regretted speaking, realizing he shouldn't discuss such things in front of Li Qi. When he hesitated, Li Qi grew annoyed: "Just say it. Don’t be so coy for a grown man."

Mu Lingyun confessed, "I won't hide it, Minister Li. I admire you greatly, and I admire those three immensely. However, I would never slander Advisor Zhao’s reputation to improve my own chances. Most people in the Central government know about this matter, and the name of the man involved is the same as Advisor Zhao's."

Li Qi took my hand and smiled at Mu Lingyun: "I’m happy you admire me, but I am Zhao Qian’s girlfriend, and that will never change. Say what you will; I won't get angry."

Li Qi’s smile stunned Mu Lingyun slightly, as her smiles were rare when I wasn't around. He shook his head to clear it: "It’s common knowledge in Great Dragon Country that Major General Yi married Young Master Tan. However, a mysterious man intervened, causing their marriage to collapse, resulting in the Tan and Yi families ceasing contact. All evidence suggests that mysterious man is Advisor Zhao."

I won't shy away from responsibility regarding romantic matters. Besides, having severed ties with the Tan family is imminent within the next few days, so there’s no harm in telling Mu Lingyun early. I stated plainly, "That’s right. I am the mysterious man who 'seduced' Yi Xiaorou."

My frankness was unacceptable to Mu Lingyun. He looked at Li Qi, who was completely unfazed by the revelation. "What are you looking at me for? I can't control their affairs."

Mu Lingyun said to her, "Minister Li, you really aren't angry at Advisor Zhao? He’s two-timing!"

Li Qi shrugged. "Even if he was stepping on twenty boats, what of it? Would I dare get angry? I’m just incredibly relieved he isn’t angry with me."

Mu Lingyun was astounded that such words could come from the usually aloof Li Qi. He started giving me repeated thumbs-ups, his speech taking on a slightly roguish tone: "Advisor Zhao, I am thoroughly impressed. My admiration for you is like the ceaseless flow of the Yangtze River. From now on, I’ll follow your lead. I originally intended to compete with you for Minister Li, but looking at my current abilities, I shouldn't embarrass myself."

Li Qi pointed at the photo and asked Mu Lingyun, "You don't still have designs on those three, do you?"

Mu Lingyun put the photo away. "I wouldn't dare. Those three are Chief Commissioners of the Central Specialized Committee. With my status, I shouldn't make a fool of myself."

"Good," Li Qi warned. "Zhao Qian treasures his two sisters deeply. If you mess around, I can't guarantee what might happen."

"Zhao Qian... Zhao Fang... Zhao Fang... Ah! Their surnames are all Zhao! They are Advisor Zhao's sisters! No wonder no one could trace their background. You're family! Impressive, truly impressive. A family of generals! Even a seventy-year-old professor has to call sixteen-year-old Zhao Fang 'Teacher.'"

My familial connection to Zhao Fen and Zhao Fang was non-existent, but there was no need to explain this to others. Not long ago, the state established the Central Specialized Committee (CSC), headed by Chairman Li Zhenyu and involving the Premier and all ministry heads. Its function was to research anti-nuclear weapons technology. Bringing in the State Council and all ministries was to mobilize every available national resource to expedite the successful development of this weapon to break the nuclear threat posed by M and R nations.

I fully supported this endeavor because, given the current global climate, breaking the nuclear balance was necessary to reclaim all of Huaxia’s lost territory. If conflict erupted near Great Dragon Country, M and R would certainly intervene. Their only real threat to Great Dragon Country lay in nuclear capability. Once anti-nuclear weapons were successfully developed, we could fight openly on merit, as Red Dragon’s strength was sufficient to withstand any coalition of other nations.

On the surface, this work was led by Yi Xiaorou, Zhao Fen, and Zhao Fang. However, the actual driving force comprised Long Nü, Little Raindrop, and Little Hui. Since those three preferred to remain behind the scenes, the former three were put forward publicly.

Li Qi turned to Mu Lingyun: "I'm starting to think you're quite cunning, Colonel. Did you get into the Ministry of Defense through connections?"

Mu Lingyun looked affronted. "How could that be, Minister Li? You haven’t just met me today. You can check my background; my family has been poor peasants for eight generations. I graduated at the top of my military academy class. My entry into the Ministry of Defense was entirely based on my own merit."

"That’s good to hear. We might cooperate in the future. I think I’ll go dance with Zhao Qian now. You enjoy your drink."

The after-effects of this banquet solidified Li Qi’s plans. Furthermore, my wives were tired of me remaining in the shadows; they all wanted their husband to be glorious in the eyes of the world. So, after returning home that night, the wives conferred and agreed the time was right to reveal all my identities publicly—with one exception: the truth about Red Dragon would remain secret, at least until the anti-nuclear weapon project was complete.

Regarding the anti-nuclear weapon, Long Nü and Little Raindrop were in complete agreement: they advocated developing a 'Black Hole Bomb' capable of consuming the entire yield of a nuclear explosion using an artificially created, controllable black hole.

The black holes we usually discuss are the remnants of dead stars, formed when exceptionally massive supergiant stars collapse and contract. Furthermore, a black hole must originate from a star that has reached its final evolutionary stage with a mass exceeding the Chandrasekhar Limit; stars below this limit cannot form black holes.

In the ancient 'Water' Star technology of the Dragon Girl, and in the Earth technology of Xiaoyuddi one million years in the future, humanity can harness immense energy to create small, controllable black holes. These can devour everything within their control, including light, let alone the shockwaves from a nuclear detonation.

The Dragon Girl is at the forefront of research in this field. Based on the existing theories she has compiled, we are entirely capable of building a black hole generator, and our energy reserves are more than sufficient. However, after discussion, a few of us decided to temporarily postpone the deployment of the black hole bomb, as upsetting the nuclear balance would inevitably lead to war. For now, my own standing is too modest; this must wait until my authority is significantly bolstered by a comprehensive propaganda push scheduled for the next few days.

I realize I can no longer evade this destiny; I might as well face the approaching storm with an open heart. As for my university career, it must be placed on hold from the moment I was sent down to Liangshan. Perhaps someday, when I feel my knowledge is lacking, I will return to recharge my intellectual batteries.

The current matters are so numerous that I cannot even calculate them all: I must protect Liu Xue, handle the routine affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and steer the direction of a whole cluster of companies operating behind the scenes. What is even more troublesome are the unearned, prestigious titles awaiting me. Yet, without accepting these empty honors, I cannot legitimately reclaim the territories of the Huaxia Empire, nor can I openly pursue world unification. From the instant I jumped into the water and heeded Taozi's instruction to retrieve the energy stone, my path was set: I must confront all of this. Now, these challenges have arrived, and I must meet them with equanimity.