On May 31st, in the first year of Taihao, at the Temple of the Sun God in Sea God City, Bermuda, North Atlantic.

The spatial traps in the Temple of the Sun God had been dismantled, and the power system was now operational, albeit converted to use a Helium-3 nuclear reactor. Energy Stones were far too precious and best kept aboard the Hope starship. Furthermore, the 500 kilograms of Helium-3 available on Earth were cheap for us; the Helium-3 generated during the sun's thermonuclear reactions, blocked from Earth by the atmosphere, easily settled on the Moon via the solar wind. Coupled with the substantial reserves the native Mercurians had already positioned there, using this inexpensive energy source was the only sensible course.

Sitting in the vastness of the Temple of the Sun God truly afforded a feeling of imperial distance, but the endless stream of myriad daily affairs was becoming quite tedious. Although various corporations were initially seized by world governments, as Taihao achieved continuous victories, many nations shifted their stance and reopened the businesses. Coupled with the need to manage the territories we had already subdued, my wives were once again swamped with work, leaving no one to accompany me except Li Qi and Hua Qingqing.

Li Qi was a top-priority protectee, and Hua Qingqing was her designated guardian. With nothing else pressing for the two women, they followed me everywhere. Although my mother had strictly cautioned against taxing Li Qi’s mind, she still ended up reviewing most of the documents for me; in this area, my capabilities simply couldn't match her natural political acumen.

Li Qi, flipping through documents, addressed me as I sat bored, “Husband, several minor African nations have sent subtle inquiries. They are eager to join the Taihao vassalage but hesitate, fearing we won't move against the British and French. I think the war needs to be concluded quickly, otherwise, the world we inherit will be a complete mess.”

Hua Qingqing returned with three cups of milk tea, sitting next to me and presenting one, “Yes, Husband. It’s best to avoid conflict if possible. After all, this world is still ours.”

I pulled both women into my embrace, one on each side, “But if we don't defeat the US and Russia, more nations will sit on the fence. This war is unavoidable. We must resolve it as quickly as possible. Haven't we set June 1st for the formal invasion of Russian mainland? I trust the fighting will be over within half a month. Then, one swift move to secure North America, and the world will be at peace.”

Li Qi gently slipped from my hold, “Rogue, what if someone sees? You are now the sovereign of a nation; you must maintain appearances and don’t set a bad example for the children.”

I scoffed, “What king’s work? I can’t handle it. When our son is born, you can take over. Once he’s older and capable, you can pass it to him.”

Hua Qingqing chimed in, “How do you know it will be a son? Even I don't know yet.”

I paused, “Given my great talent and strategic vision, it should be a son, shouldn't it? Even if it’s a daughter, it’s fine; I still have the rest of you.”

The two women chuckled, “What does being a son or daughter have to do with great talent and vision? That’s a matter of chromosomes.”

Li Qi continued scanning the documents, saying to me, “You must decide quickly on the fate of the Japanese islands. The departments below are waiting for action. Also, the Southern Fleet has conquered Australia, and the nations of the South Seas have completely submitted. We need to promptly assign personnel for the takeover there; any delay will lead to chaos.”

I stood up, paced around the room once, and returned, “I do not agree to destroying the Japanese islands. Zhu Da always suggests the worst ideas. Although the islands offer no resources worth exploiting, do we lack resources now? In the future, we will return to the Great Dragon Kingdom. The islands of Japan and TW are like two aircraft carriers guarding our homeland. My suggestion is to establish the Yingzhou Province and appoint dedicated administrators. We will slowly integrate the Japanese, relocating them from the islands in batches and gradually introducing our Han residents. In a short time, this entire population will be thoroughly Sinicized, and then we won't have to fear them causing trouble for our nation again… I don't think the Japanese warrant fear. A small nation on precarious islands; they act arrogant when you ignore them, but fall apart when you confront them. Fundamentally, their cultural foundation is insufficient, and their minds lack depth. Yet, if you claim their minds aren't sharp, they obsess over pretense and formalities, crowning everything with a ‘Way’—the Way of Tea, the Way of Chess, the Way of the Sword, the Way of Judo, the Way of the Warrior. My definition of them is simply: Pretenders!”

The two women laughed heartily at my remarks. Li Qi sifted through a pile of files and presented one to me, “Have you reviewed Zhou Qiang’s proposal to divide the world into eight prefectures?”

I nodded, “He considered things thoroughly. Since we have come this far, we shouldn't fear being labeled ambitious. The world will be divided into the Central-South Prefecture (governing the Indochinese Peninsula, Indian Peninsula, and Iranian Plateau), the South Seas Prefecture (governing Australia, New Zealand, and numerous South Pacific islands), the South American Prefecture (governing the nations of South America), the North American Prefecture (governing the US, Canada, Greenland, Mexico, etc.), the African Prefecture (governing Africa and its coastal islands), the European Prefecture (governing all of Europe’s smaller nations), the Siberian Prefecture (primarily the vast territories of Russia), and the Huaxia Prefecture (the historical peak territory of the Great Dragon Kingdom, including Mongolia and the two Koreas). Taihao will dispatch specialized personnel to govern the nations within each prefecture. Original state political structures will remain unchanged; only the economy, politics, and military will be under Taihao's control. This saves both effort and manpower.”

Hua Qingqing smiled, “Will the Yingzhou Province fall under the Huaxia Prefecture? Our ancient texts list it as one of the three Immortal Mountains.”

I replied, “Of course. Historically, Japan once paid tribute to our Celestial Dynasty; we certainly cannot destroy our own territory. We currently lack manpower. I believe that besides increasing the number of mechanized soldiers, we must extensively recruit from the Great Dragon Kingdom. Mu Fei is the most suitable person for this task; he is superb at ideological work and adept at mobilizing the masses.”

Li Qi rubbed her stomach, “Ah, don’t mention him. He’s visited me several times recently, and out of respect for you, Husband, I can’t get angry with him. Have you told him clearly that I am already carrying a child of the Zhao family, so I couldn't possibly still be interested in him?”

This Mu Fei was determined to compete with me for Li Qi. However, Li Qi was now a primary protectee of the Zhao family, perhaps even more precious than an Empress. Furthermore, even if Li Qi weren’t pregnant with my child, she would never be interested in Mu Fei. I was the only one who could truly bring her ecstasy.

Speaking of the devil, a guard informed me that Mu Fei was waiting outside. Li Qi and Hua Qingqing said, “Since Mu Fei is here, you two can discuss matters. Qingqing sis and I will go home first, and find a chance to tell him clearly.”

I stopped them, “Don't leave. Since Mu Fei is here, perhaps we should clarify things publicly right now, to prevent personal feelings from interfering with work.”

Li Qi reluctantly sat back down, “Fine, sorting it out face-to-face will prevent future issues.”

Setting aside the romantic conflicts, Mu Fei was undeniably skilled at political propaganda, so I genuinely hoped this matter could be resolved amicably. Mu Fei soon entered the Sun God Temple. “Zhao Qian, I’m here to discuss tomorrow’s troop mobilization. You must be present on site; otherwise, it will be difficult to boost morale. While the fighting spirit is already high, as the Lord of Taihao, your participation is essential.”

Regarding titles, I certainly wouldn’t allow them to call me ‘King’; they were to call me by my name—“No problem. Remind me first thing tomorrow morning. By the way, Mu Fei, I also have some other matters to discuss with you. It’s getting late; how about we have lunch together and talk?”

Mu Fei glanced at Li Qi sitting on the chair and nodded. For ease of conversation, we didn't go home but ate in the private dining hall behind the Sun God Temple.

The two of us started with a beer. I said to Mu Fei, “Although Taihao has utilized management personnel from Earth Energy and various Universal corporations, we are still short-staffed. Do you have any good ideas?”

Mu Fei set down his glass, “That’s easy to solve. The Great Dragon Kingdom has no shortage of people, though we need capable talents. However, the level of culture and education in the Great Dragon Kingdom is far from what it was; many people can be competent after minimal training. We can even utilize many existing government officials. Although many are greedy, our Taihao has inherited the Great Dragon Kingdom's Rectification Office, and Liu Ying’s strictness is well-known to Dragon Kingdom officials. With them in place, even the corrupt will not dare to act recklessly.”

I nodded, “We can raise their salaries to twice, even three or four times their original pay. After all, if they have to leave their homes, a low salary might make them unwilling.”

Mu Fei laughed, “Now, if Taihao just raises a banner, millions of Great Dragon Kingdom people will follow without demanding salary. Tan Zhong’s clique has thoroughly disappointed the common people. By the way, do you know a Shen Langhua from Hainan?”

I replied, “Of course I know her. Zhu Da, Cai Bao’er, and I once worked odd jobs on her fishing boat.”

Mu Fei said, “She is now the Chairwoman of the Hainan Provincial Women’s Federation. She was dismissed from office because she frequently confronted the government in public.”

I questioned in surprise, “That can’t be right. The young lady has a good temper. But I truly didn’t know she became the Chairwoman of the Hainan Provincial Women’s Federation.”

Mu Fei explained, “Her temper is indeed good, and as a fisherwoman, she works diligently; the fishermen trust her completely. However, she constantly defended Taihao and opposed various decisions made by the Politburo members, leading a group of fishermen in a strike—the government being lenient by not severely punishing her is already a courtesy.”

I angrily tapped the table, “Tan Zhong’s issue must be resolved sooner or later, but bringing the Great Dragon Kingdom into this while the US and Russia are unsettled is not the right time. We must be patient.”

“I’ve already contacted her. Shen Langhua was so thrilled to hear she could come to Taihao that she didn't sleep well for several nights. Furthermore, she will bring many people skilled in government management with her.”

Hearing this, I highly praised him, “Excellent. We must heavily reward Shen Langhua later. When the masses spontaneously join Taihao, even the US and Russia will hesitate to act rashly against the Great Dragon Kingdom.”

Mu Fei continued, “Also, I have contacted your old County Magistrate, along with some friends you made when you served in Shimen. They are all willing to follow you in conquering the world.”

After being dismissed, County Magistrate Zhao had been living quite leisurely. We contacted him a few times later; after all, he had treated me to a month of free meals, and I often felt nostalgic for him. He possessed administrative ability; his involvement in the corruption case of Secretary Ma and others was forced by the general environment. His later decision to voluntarily confess his involvement counts him as a good comrade.”

I raised my glass to Mu Fei, “It seems you have solved all my difficulties. Come, let me toast you.”

After we finished the drink, Mu Fei said, “Now that the official business is settled, can I discuss my personal matters?”

Li Qi looked distressed, fearing Mu Fei might say something awkward that would embarrass both parties. I spoke to Mu Fei, “Mu Fei, there is also a personal matter I wanted to discuss with you.”

Mu Fei said, “It’s about Sister Qiqi, right? Today, I specifically wanted to hear Qiqi’s final decision.”

Li Qi said, “Mu Fei, I know you like me, but the person I love is Zhao Qian. Moreover, there’s something you might not know yet—I, I, I am about to become a mother.”

Saying this, Li Qi lowered her head, her face flushed crimson. After all, an unplanned pregnancy was something she didn't wish to publicize, especially not to intimates like Zhu Da and Cai Bao’er. Mu Fei clearly froze upon hearing this. I carefully observed his expression. Frankly, I didn't want to lose such a capable asset over personal feelings, but for Li Qi’s sake, I wouldn't regret losing the entire world.

Mu Fei didn't show much surprise; his expression quickly normalized. He silently drank a glass alone and then said to Li Qi, “Actually, I always knew you could never like me, especially after Zhao Qian’s identity was revealed, and he led the Taihao troops to reclaim Zangnan and conquer Japan. My feelings for Zhao Qian are now only respect, no longer the jealousy I once held. What he achieved is something no other person could accomplish; he is a great hero. If I were to haggle over this now, I would appear petty.”

Li Qi countered, “Mu Fei, I’m actually not suitable for you. I am too prone to childish tantrums and sometimes even hit people. Only a man stronger than me can subdue me. If we were together, you would eventually be unable to tolerate me.”

Mu Fei forced a smile, “I heard rumors back in school. Many classmates suffered your Chairwoman’s ‘fragrant fist and jade kick.’ But at the time, I naively thought that one day my capability would surpass yours, and I would definitely win you over. Who knew that you are now the second-in-command of our Taihao? So, I should completely give up. Besides, Zhao Qian is now universally acclaimed; if I get entangled in personal affections, wouldn't I become a laughingstock to the world?”

At this moment, I didn't know what to interject, so Li Qi spoke up, “It’s best if you think that way. In any case, we are still classmates and friends, aren’t we? Your organizational skills were well-known since Longteng University, and I’m happy that you are now providing counsel to Taihao.”

Mu Fei smiled wryly, “Madam Zhao, please stop praising me. I’m hurting right now.”

Since Mu Fei could voice his feelings so honestly, he likely wouldn't pursue the matter further. To be honest, anyone would feel distressed if the woman they loved became pregnant, especially when the father wasn't them—unless they pretended nothing had happened. Mu Fei drank another glass and addressed Li Qi, “Li Qi, I have one request that I hope you and Zhao Qian can agree to.”

I said, “Go ahead. Is there anything we can’t do?”

Mu Fei stated, “After the child is born, I want to be his godfather. Do you agree? Please don't misunderstand; I’m not interested in his future status.”

This fellow was imitating Zhao Ting’s approach, but their circumstances were different from mine and Zhao Ting’s. Mu Fei also held a deep, lingering affection for Li Qi, so being the godfather could serve as a form of solace.

Seeing me nod, Li Qi replied, “Yes, absolutely! The child hasn't even been born yet and already has a group of godmothers and godfathers. He will be incredibly fortunate in the future.”

Mu Fei was certainly aware of my large number of wives. He raised his glass to me, “Zhao Qian, you are truly enviable. But I will also work hard. Will Taihao permit a man to have three wives and four concubines in the future?”

I rubbed my head, “That... I might not have the final say on that. We'll see when the time comes.”

Early the next morning, Mu Fei and I rushed to Wakkanai, the northernmost point of the Japanese islands. After the pre-battle mobilization there, we had to hurry to Rason, at the mouth of the Tumen River, where another massive army awaited deployment.

I am not accustomed to long speeches. After a few sentences, I yielded the floor to Mu Fei. True to form, this man was excellent at igniting passions. In just a few words, he spurred the generals and soldiers into a fever pitch of fervor. At that moment, not even they themselves would have stopped if they wanted to cross the strait to attack the old Muscovite Russians.

Zhu Da pulled me aside and whispered, “Mu Fei agreed to be your son’s godfather?”

I was surprised, “How did you get such inside information so quickly?”

Zhu Da replied smugly, “I have a golden-ticket little spy near you. We grew up together, practically naked. Your son is my son; I have to be his godfather.”

Cai Bao’er suddenly poked her head in to interfere, “Count me in too.”

I asked Cai Bao’er, “When your sister has a son, do you want to be his godfather too?”

Cai Bao’er retorted, “Wouldn’t that mess up the generations? I’d be his uncle!”

Suddenly, the massive army let out a roaring shout that startled the three of us into silence. We saw Mu Fei pointing north, his posture suggesting he would not return until every 'Long-Hair' (Muscovite) was exterminated.