Staring at that once familiar face, watching the woman who had once exuded endless charm in my arms, everything seemed slowly drifting away. All that remained was this woman before me with bewildered and helpless eyes, her expression as untouchable as a fortress. My sudden outburst must have triggered her alertness—had I lungged forward to embrace her again, she might very well scream for the guards to arrest some vagrant.

Why had it come to this? Had the impact of our escape pod's landing caused amnesia?

No. According to her own account, she'd awoken aboard a transport ship. Then it must have been the wormhole—the enigmatic forces that stripped me of my superpowers could they not also erase their memories?

Damn you wormhole! This was disastrous. If all eight women had no recollection of me, how on earth would I persuade them to return with me to Earth? Cheng Susu may appear strong-willed in demeanor, but secretly relies most heavily on me. Now she's even developed hostility toward me—what could possibly be done?

Cheng Susu noticed my silence and shifting expressions, her alertness sharpening further. "Don't try anything funny," she warned coldly. "I've brought two bodyguards—they're sitting outside the teahouse. I can summon them with a single shout."

With a heavy heart like it was being carved out by a knife, I slumped onto the chair. We were now as strangers, even enemies due to my momentary impulsiveness. My journey of rekindling relationships had just become exponentially more complicated. What could possibly be done? What should I do?

When Cheng Susu saw I made no move toward her, she relaxed slightly and sat across from me. "If you know who I am, then speak. If not, I'm leaving."

The only option left was to confess the truth to Cheng Susu—perhaps it would trigger memories long buried. Steeling myself, I began recounting everything starting with that haunted building leap. Naturally we omitted any intimate details between us—the mere thought might provoke stronger hostility from this new Cheng Susu who no longer resembled my former devoted partner but instead mirrored a coldly detached version of the formidable Cheng family matriarch.

The tale stretched through how eight women's transport ship had been thrown off course by meteorites, eventually being swallowed into the wormhole and lost. Cheng Susu's face remained clouded with confusion. "None of what you say rings familiar," she admitted. "I don't even recall ever belonging to a place called Earth?"

Poor soul—she couldn't remember her own home planet now. I sighed. "After enduring countless trials to reach this world from Earth, am I now reduced to deceiving you? Fine, if not my husband's wife, let it be forgotten. Return with me and see for yourself."

Cheng Susu appeared to ponder these words before slowly replying: "I want answers about who I truly am. If you're going back to Earth, I'll accompany you—but first you must provide sufficient proof of your ability to return there. Otherwise how can I trust you? I've been observing this planet's technology and it's barely advanced enough for humans to ride horses, let alone fly through wormholes."

"I'm currently repairing my spaceship damaged by meteorites in orbit around this world," I explained. "Actually, the fact that we share a language should be proof enough of itself. Think carefully—while you may forget me Zhao Qian, surely your memories of Earth's parents remain? And Hua Qingqing who once saved your mother's life was always your inseparable friend. Could you truly have no recollection at all?"

"Stop it! Please stop!" Cheng Susu clutched her temples in agony. "I don't know what's happening to me—some memories are crystal clear yet others remain frustratingly out of reach. It hurts so much... someone please help me!"

Seeing her pain, I could no longer sit idly by and reached for her. "Susu, don't fear—I'll protect you."

The sharp slap echoed through the room. Shock froze me instantly. Cheng Susu's fiery temperament was legendary—before a woman truly surrendered to a man she remained an untouchable empress. My hand had barely brushed her shoulder before it was interpreted as harassment.

Suddenly the door burst open and two burly men stormed in led by a smug Spring. Without hesitation they seized me like a chicken and threw me out onto the teahouse steps. As if angered by my plight, thunder cracked overhead and torrential rain began falling—these twin stars truly mirrored Earth with their dramatic storms.

Lai Sikun who had been waiting nearby erupted in fury at seeing his friend ejected. Though normally quiet compared to his brother, he'd become their savior when that tribal leader's sacred blade nearly impaled them both back in the mountains. With a single slash of my energy blade I severed the weapon saving their lives.

Lai Sikun felled one thug but the other caught him unawares and sent him crashing down. Mud and water plastered both men as they struggled through the storm. Lai Sikun barely had strength left to help me up before Spring exited with Cheng Susu, holding some rectangular object that was undoubtedly an umbrella.

"Zhao Qian brothers," he panted, "what happened?"

Disregarding the rain on my face I shouted toward Cheng Susu: "Susu! Don't go back—stay here and let me protect you!"

Spring appeared puzzled by our conversation. After consulting with Cheng Susu who had gradually picked up local speech over these past days, she turned to scold me. "Pfft! Want to protect our lady? First prove you're capable enough to even defeat a servant boy. Pathetic!"

Lai Sikun's fury boiled over. "You insolent child don't you know anything! Brother Zhao is the Bird God of this region with a sacred blade that cleaves iron and can extract babies from women's bellies! If not for his damaged spaceship he could fly through the skies! What are these two brutes to him?"

The thugs couldn't tolerate such insults and charged forward—one against each combatant. Poor Lai Sikun and I were no match for trained assassins, quickly subdued and pummeled into the mud. Bloodied and bruised with my strength severely depleted from earlier radiation exposure, stars danced before my eyes after just two punches.

"Stop it!" Cheng Susu cried but her voice was drowned out by thunder. Spring had already pulled her away to safety while the thugs continued their assault, bellowing: "Let this be a lesson—don't think you can mistreat our lady!"

Suddenly a massive hand shot from nowhere and yanked one thug into the air before slamming him down like a sack of grain! A thick wooden staff embedded itself in the ground as the second thug crumpled in terror.

"What...what are you doing? We're from the county office!" he stammered.

With a mighty swing Laidu Erhuan sent the terrified man flying several paces before roaring: "Get out of here! Don't even think about bullying Brother Zhao or my little brother!"

The thugs, never having been humiliated so thoroughly, attempted to counterattack. But one look at that towering figure with his terrifying staff and they immediately retreated.

Linglong rushed through the rain to check on me. "Zhao Qian, what happened?"

I ignored her question as Cheng Susu turned away. Shoving Linglong aside I nearly sent her sprawling into the mud until she wept in.

Watching that familiar yet alien silhouette disappear, my heart felt like it was being torn out through my throat. Just when I thought she might glance back—

A few iron coins clattered onto the ground as she tossed them over her shoulder without hesitation. "Sorry about these brutes' recklessness," she called coldly. "You can use this to see a doctor." Then, with no further glances, she vanished into the storm.

The square coins hit the wet earth as Laidu Erhuan bent down eagerly. "These can buy lots of salt and tea—very useful!"

Lai Sikun yanked his brother's hand back sharply. "No! Don't soil our hands."

Linglong wiped rain from her face before stomping off angrily. As Cheng Susu's silhouette faded into the downpour, I felt my very soul had been ripped away. Only when evening brought an end to the storm did I finally regain consciousness.

Lai Sikun and Wahan stood vigil by my side all night long. Their kindness moved me deeply as they remained steadfast despite my near-death state.

"Brother Lai," I rasped, "Wahan thank you both—I'm fine now."

Lai Sikun let out a long breath of relief. "Finally! You've scared us to death. What happened? Wasn't that county official's daughter your fiancée Cheng Susu?"

I massaged my face in anguish. "Forget it—she truly is my betrothed yet this current version of Susu isn't the same as before."

Wahan giggled mischievously. "Oh! So you're not married like me and Lai Sikun are!"

"But if she really is your fiancée," Lai Sikun puzzled, "why do you say she's no longer who she was?"

"Because Susu has amnesia," I explained. "She forgets everything about the past and now doesn't even remember who she is. The county official must have been treating her kindly these days so naturally she finds government protection more trustworthy than returning to me."

Lai Sikun frowned. "So is there any hope?"

"Of course," I said. "Otherwise I wouldn't be conscious right now. My plan is either to help her recover all memories or rebuild our relationship from scratch like before—even though I'm no longer superhuman, my love for Susu remains unchanged."

Wahan and Lai Sikun encouraged me: "Brother Zhao we believe you'll succeed eventually!"

"By the way," Wahan added curiously, "you mentioned there are seven others. How do they relate to you? Could they also have amnesia?"

"If I find them first," I said thoughtfully, "they might help convince Cheng Susu of our relationship... though it's risky."

Actually I knew the wormhole's forces likely affected all eight women similarly. Claiming six other fiancées would only lead to rejection now—better just call us friends for now.

Lai Sikun asked: "So what will you do next?"

"Get inside that county compound somehow," I decided, "how else can I attract her attention from the street shouting? You have to have face-to-face interaction like me and Wahan did."

Dinner time arrived as Hushanyang's wife began serving meals. Wahan hurried off to help while our discussion paused—Laidu Erhuan had spent all afternoon patching holes in their flat-roofed house which leaked terribly due to poor local construction.

"Uncle Hu," I asked, "where is Linglong? Why isn't she joining us?"

Hushanyang shrugged. "That little girl's been locked in her room crying ever since we came back. Her mother tried reasoning with her but nothing works."

Lai Sikun and others knew it was just a childish tantrum but couldn't get any answers out of the stubborn child. Recalling events I realized Linglong must be angry at me for pushing her into mud earlier while ignoring her concern.

Setting down my rice bowl I said, "I'll check on her. You all eat first."

Knocking yielded no response so I pushed open the door to find Linglong and Wahan sharing a bed. We four had to cram together with Hushanyang's family due to limited rooms though we promised compensation upon departure.

Linglong sulked by the bed, refusing even to look at me when I entered. I immediately bowed: "Linglong, please forgive my rude behavior earlier."

She turned in surprise. "You...you're apologizing? Men here rarely apologize to women!"

"Because I'm wrong," I said firmly. "Let's just eat together now?"

"No thanks," she huffed, "what did I ever do to deserve your attention anyway? You're the Bird God while I'm just a nobody."

I groaned inwardly. This girl was clearly upset about something else: "Linglong listen—I pushed you down during that moment of panic. Let me compensate by rolling in the mud outside!"

A small hand suddenly blocked the door.

"Don't be silly—now I have to wash your clothes too! Think of another punishment."

"Okay," I said, "but give me a suggestion then."

She huffed: "Do you really care if I'm happy?"

"I do," I replied genuinely.

Linglong blushed slightly before returning to her seat. "Fine. I know how bad you feel about losing Miss Cheng so I won't be petty this time... though your clumsy behavior ruined my brand new animal-skin clothes."

My face heated up as well. "I'll buy you a new set with money when I have it. Let's go eat now?"

Linglong nodded and skipped out ahead of me.

After dinner Hushanyang retired early while we five gathered in the dining room discussing next steps.

Wahan declared: "Me and Lai Sikun aren't returning to our village. I stole quite a few iron coins from my father's money bag which should buy us time until he agrees."

Lai Sikun, though penniless, vowed not to burden his wife.

"Tomorrow I'll find work," he said determinedly.

Clever Wahan smiled—she knew better than to challenge her husband's pride.

Laidu Erhuan eagerly declared: "Brother Zhao needs me here to protect him. The city is amazing and I'll return with you when you're done."

I was relieved to have Laidu stay—he'd demonstrated incredible strength today. Considering he could lift my spaceship alone, his presence would be invaluable now that my powers were gone.

Lai Sikun nodded: "Fine. Father never set a time limit anyway. Just remember to send word home later."

Linglong grumbled: "But what about me? My parents will worry!"

Wahan reassured her: "Father will come looking if he gets too anxious. Don't worry, I'll take responsibility for everything."

"Even though you can barely take care of yourself?" Linglong muttered.

I suggested renting an apartment to avoid staying at Hushanyang's place indefinitely.

Lai Sikun hesitated over costs but Wahan dismissed it: "We have enough money—ask Uncle Hu tomorrow."

Discussing how to infiltrate the county mansion, I thought about imitating Tang Bohu's servant-to-Maid-of-Autumn approach. But who knew if they needed servants? Even if they did, without connections no one would trust a stranger.

Forcing our way in was risky as evidenced by our current injuries. Waiting outside was equally impractical since Cheng Susu might only leave once a month. If we could rebuild some kind of relationship...

Discussions stretched into the night with no clear solutions. I decided to check county gates tomorrow for unexpected opportunities.

That night, nightmares haunted me. One moment I saw the eight women who had once been close to me now glaring at me like old enemies, biting and beating me without mercy; another moment revealed my other wives at home waiting anxiously each day, their faces streaked with endless tears as they dragged themselves through the hours until dawn broke. When I finally washed my face in the morning light, I gasped at my reflection - bruised skin covered my body like a patchwork quilt, dark shadows smothering my eyes. Was this truly heaven's cruel test for me? Whatever it was, I vowed never to surrender. Even if I wanted to give up, there'd be no choice but to cling stubbornly to these twin stars until I reunited with those eight women.

Over breakfast, I mentioned to Uncle Hushanyang about seeking temporary housing in the area. He readily agreed to inquire among neighbors today despite his own meager circumstances. As a shopkeeper barely scraping by on meager profits - one iron coin per day was considered good fortune for his modest establishment - hosting five of us must have strained their resources, especially after yesterday's rain damaged some goods. The scarcity of iron coins, which were imported from the Jin Kingdom and equaled to a wild boar's value each, made every drop of savings precious.

"Uncle," I puzzled over the architecture during breakfast, "why do your houses all have flat roofs? Doesn't that make leaks inevitable?"

Hushanyang scratched his head. "What else could we build them as? Our ancestors always did it this way! But how could you call it wrong when we can barely afford quality materials or hire expert builders?"

I nearly buried my face in the table - had they forgotten basic hydrodynamics? Glancing at Laisiki and Waheni beside me, both nodded solemnly, as if curved roofs were an unthinkable sacrilege to their building traditions.

After thoughtful consideration, I whispered to Laisiki, "Does this place experience distinct seasons with strong winds? When I viewed the planet's map earlier, over 80% was ocean. Storms must be common."

Linglong interjected eagerly before he could respond, "Seasons are what?" while laughing at my modern terms.

I explained weather patterns painstakingly, only for Linglong to clarify, "We have exactly three hundred and thirty-one days in a year divided into eleven months of thirty each, with one extra day reserved for major festivals. Our Twin Cities doesn't experience four seasons like Earth, but heavy rains and winds are constant - though compared to the Jin Kingdom or Wanma Kingdom, these would just be drizzles."

Nodding thoughtfully, I realized their inland location softened oceanic influences. Linglong's festival must resemble our Lunar New Year celebrations.

"Flat roofs likely originated as wind resistance measures," I deduced, "but triangular gabled roofs might better withstand this planet's frequent storms and rains, especially with abundant timber resources."

Uncle Hushanyang slammed the table excitedly, startling his family. "That could make us rich!" he declared.

Perplexed faces turned to him. He grinned, "Our Fishbone County gets nearly six months of rainstorms annually! If your method works, we can offer paid roof renovations - that income would sustain us for decades!"

I gave him a thumbs-up. "Uncle Hushanyang, you're brilliant! You turn every word into gold."

Waheni, the mountain-born mother unfamiliar with urban etiquette, enthusiastically agreed. Unlike her timid sister who'd retreated after eating halfway through breakfast, she eagerly envisioned working from home rather than seeking outside employment.

But I hesitated - my world knowledge here was sketchy. If a storm tore off these experimental roofs, entire cities might blame me.

"I suggest we..." I began cautiously, proposing a trial on one building first to test the new design before mass implementation if it survives storms.

Eventually understanding my unfamiliar terms, everyone agreed enthusiastically. The conversation stretched from breakfast into midday, and through this exchange, bonds among Hushanyang's family deepened.

As he learned of my origins, Hushanyang growled earnestly, "Young Sui, never mention your celestial homeland to outsiders again! If the authorities discover you're not from our Three Kingdoms, they'll execute you as a Jin or Wanma spy!"

I asked carefully, "Uncle, why are relations between these three kingdoms so tense?"

He grimaced. "Wanma raided Fishbone County thrice this year. The county executes suspected spies ruthlessly - several unidentified travelers were beheaded recently."

Over two days together had proven Hushanyang's sincerity as a merchant who saw no reason to scare me unnecessarily. Without supernatural powers, I must keep my identity low-key and blend into ordinary Twin City citizens.

While Laisiki and others explored with Hushanyang, I headed alone toward the county office where crowds gathered around a bulletin board, murmuring anxiously.

A ruddy-faced official with two uniformed attendants stood beside it. Unlike Earth's police who carried firearms, these officials wielded wooden staffs - weapons considered luxury items here.

"Old Six," growled a bearded man to his scholarly companion, "what's written there for my ears?"

The fair-skinned scholar named Old Six read aloud, "Recruitment of laborers offering two meals."

"Bloody unfair!" the bearded man grumbled. "Even if they execute people and dig graves, would two meals be enough?!"

"Not quite," Old Six clarified, "they need strong backs to transport goods from county outskirts. The weaklings won't even get considered."

The impatient official noticed the crowd had formed and waved his hand sharply, "Take them all!"

His attendants thumped their staffs, shouting, "Everyone! Free midday meal for hauling goods back here! And County Magistrate will reward us with an evening feast too!"

At hearing of free food, people surged forward. I got swept up in the mass movement until trying to escape only earned me a sharp prod from behind.

Damn it - just follow along and pretend to grunt without lifting anything heavy...