I had slept through the entire day without even getting up for lunch. In the evening, those who had gone out to gather information returned. The commotion in the wooden cabin finally awoke me from my slumber. The aroma of steamed rice wafting from the stove told me I was starving. Hong Guang hadn't shared our rest; he and Linglong kept watch shifts with Sun Chang taking over by afternoon. These people were remarkably diligent.

We gathered again in the central hall as the fire in the kitchen had died out. Wan Niang served tea to everyone, her complexion visibly improving. It seemed this woman had rediscovered courage for living - men's words clearly held sway in their world. Women here often lacked independent decision-making ability, accepting whatever 'heaven-given' fate required of them without question. For Wan Niang specifically, someone who'd already tasted death once might cherish life more deeply.

Ding Qianhu hadn't arrived yet when Liu Baihu addressed me: "Mister, we've investigated the guard arrangements at Shen Vicegeneral's residence. Though not 100% accurate, our information is about nine-tenths reliable. When the time comes we'll exercise caution to ensure no one gets suspicious. That thief has been staying with his third concubine both nights. If tonight goes as planned, we should find him there."

I replied: "Who's monitoring Shen's estate for warning signs? This information is critical for our next few days' operations." Liu Baihu assured me: "Mister need not worry - we captured a live informant and made sure he became dead after extracting his knowledge. A few deaths are normal in these chaotic times; they'll just assume someone deserted when they can't find him."

Their methods were ruthless, yet the court desperately needed such decisive warriors. I nodded to Liu Baihu: "What about Ding Qianhu's situation?"

"He's contacting some trustworthy allies hoping to gain more support for mister. Rest assured there will be no security breaches," Liu reported. "Earlier today many propaganda leaflets rained into the city urging garrison troops to surrender. With three meals missed, many have already been tempted - over a hundred soldiers fled. I'm certain Ding Qianhu's contacts will pledge their lives to mister."

The psychological warfare tactic of distributing leaflets was brilliant, though I didn't know who outside had devised it. Now that we'd recovered from our rest, let's begin disrupting them by killing Shen first. Let chaos eat away at their morale night after night until they crumble psychologically.

"Very well," I said, "let's eat first then discuss tonight's operations."

Rice with two side dishes of salty vegetables - simple fare but eaten with relish. Wan Niang refused to sit with us despite our invitations; she contented herself with rice porridge at the stove as usual.

Yun Yao, however, disapproved. As a woman from Earth in the 21st century, though holding some faint traces of male superiority ideology, she wouldn't tolerate such extreme female subservience. She forcibly seated Wan Niang next to us and said: "Wan Niang, look how we treat my husband as equal. You must learn to regard yourself on par with men. Also, considering you're pregnant, eating this porridge isn't appropriate - have rice like the rest of us."

Wan Niang sat silently at a corner seat muttering, "No need... just some porridge is fine."

"I know we're out of grain," Yun Yao insisted, "but I promise more will come by morning. You can eat properly then."

Turning to Liu Baihu, I said: "I think we should secretly bring in supplies through the southern gate. How can anyone fight if they're all starving?"

Liu Baihu joyfully replied: "Then allow me and my brothers to thank mister! Wan Niang shouldn't refuse mister's kindness - please eat heartily."

With her husband's permission, Wan Niang finally joined us at the table. Under Yun Yao's insistence she ate a full bowl of rice before the lights revealed faint redness returning to her usually pale face - she must have been starving for days.

Ding Qianhu arrived post-meal and devoured his rice in several gulps: "You wouldn't believe it - rations weren't distributed all day again. Starving soldiers are catching rats everywhere, some even looting civilian food supplies while others commit murder. Coupled with the constant surrender leaflets flying into city, morale is completely shattered."

With two more nights before scheduled siege operations began (perhaps longer given these rainy conditions slowing reinforcements), this timely rain was proving fortuitous. After tonight's killings we'd notify the outside forces to intensify psychological warfare while exploiting internal starvation - I couldn't find any reason why they wouldn't lose.

"Qianhu," I told Ding, "let everyone hold on a bit longer. Once Shen Vicegeneral is eliminated tonight, use the night cover to signal the imperial troops at southern gate for grain supplies. Naturally these rations won't go to stubborn defenders - only those willing to join our rebellion can secretly consume them. Otherwise how would they have strength to serve the court?"

Ding Qianhu excitedly tossed his rice bowl aside: "Really? That's perfect! My soldiers were already ready to open gates and defect right away, but now with hope we can wait until tomorrow morning."

Yun Yao quietly went to prepare grain supplies from headquarters while cleverly arranging stone grenades, fire bombs, and smoke bombs for simultaneous covert smuggling into the city - without these tools our next two days of chaos would be incomplete.

After verifying all reconnaissance information (as this group clearly lacked any concept of assassination tactics and had poorly set up guards), we finalized plans. Tonight's team to Shen Vicegeneral's estate included me, Linglong, Yun Yao, Liu Baihu, Ding Qianhu plus five of his soldiers. Naturally Liu Baihu would execute the killing - giving him a chance for revenge.

With plenty of time before execution, we split up to rest. I shared quarters with Yun Yao and Linglong while instructing her: "Have outside forces intensify psychological warfare against city walls after midnight. Throw some stone grenades to scare them or use food **ements."

Yun Yao nodded: "Already arranged for A San to smuggle in a batch of stone grenades with the grain supply."

I beamed: "Good thinking - I rely on you to handle these details beyond my imagination."

Linglong suddenly suggested: "White Lang should die too! Let's kill him tonight!"

Nodding, I replied: "Based on intelligence this guy isn't trustworthy either. He ordered the massacre of original defenders in Pingyuan County. Even if he wants to surrender we won't accept his allegiance. Tonight first must avenge Liu Baihu and his wife before following our plan."

Linglong enthusiastically agreed: "Just let me accompany Yun Yao sister with precise intelligence - we can kill anyone!"

I laughed: "You're becoming an assassin duo then."

Yun Yao teased: "Are you scared?"

"Of what?" I countered. "You're my wife, afraid of you killing me?"

"You dare flirt with other women and we won't forgive you!" Yun Yao warned.

Linglong added: "Exactly! Especially guard Ma Xiaowei - she seems suspicious."

I privately thought Linglong more suspicious herself for her complex thoughts at just 12 years old. After chatting a while and updating headquarters about the day's events (originally intending to greet Ma Xiaowei but stopped due to the two girls' close attention), we lay down in our clothes.

Midnight arrived when Sun Chang woke us: "Mister, time has come - everyone is waiting outside."

Linglong jumped up startled: "Oops! I overslept. Don't be angry Lord."

Though Linglong joked with me as if ignoring her 'lord' status, deep down she unconsciously adopted servant-like self-perception from patriarchal norms. While I didn't want this dynamic, having never experienced servant service before I found myself strangely pleased at the prospect of being waited on - human nature is indeed evil.

Dressed in Sun Chang's black clothing (these might be Doucheng Kingdom's first night raiders or assassins), we resembled a covert military unit. The region had been too peaceful for such tactics, and from Earth's historical development I knew war always accelerated technological progress - even modern civilian technologies originated militarily. War thus held duality: destroying economies while advancing science.

Shen Vicegeneral's mansion occupied central Pingyuan County near Bai Lang's White Mansion estate. Climbing into the backyard through a ladder carried by one soldier, we were met inside by Ding Qianhu's two men already positioned as guides.

The guide relayed to Ding Qianhu: "Qianhu sir, we confirmed Shen Dog is indeed with his third concubine tonight. They just finished... and are sleeping soundly now. Here, sir - I couldn't stand starving any longer so snuck into their kitchen for food. These damn officials shout about no grain while demanding us to hold out a few more days yet their kitchens overflow with delicacies! Not decent at all!"

Ding Qianhu took the food from his soldier and passed it on: "Eat this, I already had rice earlier. Don't get nervous - we'll have food by morning but keep silent about it. Tell only your contacts to gather near southern gate before dawn."

Most soldiers were unaware of this promise: "Really sir? Perfect! After killing that dog thief we can notify brothers immediately. With food available we won't starve and work harder!"

Ding Qianhu replied: "Then let's move quickly - don't delay supply operations."

The two pre-positioned guides offered two sets of Shen household servant uniforms: "Two of you change into these. With our four men in plain sight covering, those clueless servants won't detect anything."

After changing clothes, one group led while the other remained ready as backup. As expected none of the ignorant house guards noticed anything - they'd only just assembled with few even knowing each other's names, compounded by nightfall and rain.

We reached Shen's third concubine's quarters without incident when four soldiers took guard positions. One quietly pried open the door before we stealthily entered. Yun Yao whispered about the room's scent: "Smells equally depraved - this guy is just like you."

I made no effort with this covert operation, silently trying to touch Yun Yao's waist only to be gently evaded. After checking for hidden threats, Ding Qianhu signaled Liu Baihu to strike.

Liu Baihu raised his knife ready to decapitate the pair when I stopped him: "Killing them without suffering would be too merciful."

Liu asked: "Your suggestion?"

"First call all men who dishonored Wan Niang and slowly execute each one. Finally cut off their heads for her to see - letting this old dog die unaware is too kind," I replied.

Still not revealing my identity in front of soldiers, Liu Baihu agreed: "Zhao Brother's idea is brilliant. Killing him painlessly would definitely leave me unsatisfied."

We lit the room and positioned several blades at the sleeping couple's necks while Ding Qianhu and his men covered their mouths. Unexpectedly I noticed they were still... connected in an intimate way, prompting Yun Yao and Linglong to turn away.

Ding Qianhu coldly asked: "Shen Nian - recognize me?"

Half-awakened from sleep Shen Nian squinted under the light before suddenly realizing: "Ding Qianhu! What are you doing here? We have no enmity yet you attack an officer at night! You're starving perhaps - my kitchen has anything you want!"

Ding Qianhu warned as blade pressed to his throat: "No enmity? Think about yesterday evening's events!"

Still confused Shen Nian replied: "Nothing happened except patrols and food gathering. Don't worry, our supply convoys will arrive with 500 carts of grain soon. Then we won't fear the imperial forces' siege while awaiting our 20,000 reinforcements for a decisive counterattack!"

Liu Baihu's knife nearly pierced his heart: "Still lying! Remember my wife who was pregnant..."

"Ah!" Shen Nian now understood and begged desperately: "Just one woman Qianhu! Sacrificing your career is unwise. Let me recommend you as vicegeneral to White General - command thousands of soldiers, achieve martial glory then become general with all wealth and women!"

Furious Ding Qianhu beheaded his concubine instantly. Blood splattered everywhere on the poor girl who hadn't even screamed while being silenced mid-scream. Linglong and Yun Yao instinctively ducked behind me though they'd already killed many - just another natural impulse for female protection.

Ding Qianhu roared: "Shen Nian your ancestors be damned! You defiled my sister-in-law - even if I became emperor I'd still kill you! Now call all men who dishonored her or I'll slowly peel every inch of flesh from you!"

With the decapitated body still in his arms and that final erotic moan just fading, Shen Nian quickly gave up: "I will call them but guards were already withdrawn. Maybe they won't hear... let me go out myself?"

Liu Bai asked: "Name them and where they sleep - we'll retrieve them."

Shen obediently provided names including Guka and Tiancai proving his truthfulness before four soldiers left to fetch them.

Soon knocks came at the door: "Lord summoned us? Found a girl for us?" The disguised soldiers outside didn't recognize those who'd dishonored Wan Niang.

Blades pressed to Shen Nian's throat, he timidly replied: "Yes... but don't rush - I want all of you to play with my concubine!"

Hearing this the three at door eagerly exclaimed: "Really Lord? Thank you!" They burst through only for Liu Baihu and Ding Qianhu to strike down two heads instantly. The third fled until Linglong's arrow pierced his throat.

Four soldiers outside were supposed to guard but an unexpected twist occurred - the final soldier proved surprisingly skilled, dodging blades then leaping into the room during our moment of vulnerability when we'd just decapitated others. I was thrown down and nearly stabbed before multiple arrows from Yun Yao and Linglong shattered his skull.

Linglong furiously kicked the dead body screaming: "How dare you harm our lord!"

I embraced her: "He's already dead, Linglong."

She cried: "You okay Lord? You fell so suddenly!"

"Of course," I replied. "Nothing happened to me - nothing could possibly kill me."

Yun Yao whispered: "Sister Zhao, since your powers recovered during the rescue of Su Su why didn't you react to that soldier's attack?"

I touched my chest from where he'd fallen heavily: "Don't know... but now I'll be more cautious. Even non-combatants can cause damage - always remain vigilant."

Liu Baihu wasted no time, quickly decapitating Shen Nian and the two dead soldiers before arranging five heads on floor. Then to his five men: "You guard outside while I speak with Qianhu."

Left alone in room with us (counting corpses), Liu Baihu knelt and said: "Thank you for saving my wife's life and avenging our family!"

Ding Qianhu asked confusedly: "Gangzi, what happened? He was your soldier yet you call him 'mister'?"

Liu Baihu grabbed his hands: "No outsiders here, so I'll be honest now. He is not my soldier - rather I serve him! This is actually Commander Zhao of the imperial anti-bandit forces!"

Ding Qianhu chuckled, "What a misunderstanding. I don't really care if you wait until we've turned our backs before speaking. You're my brother—our childhood friends who grew up together with bare butts. I'll always trust you no matter what. Just now when I said that stuff about betrayal, it was just teasing. This Zhao Da Ren is a decent man. If we can serve under such a capable leader in the future, it'll be our good fortune. I don't know if he still needs personal guards—my little Dingzi would be honored to serve at your side."

My racing heart finally calmed down as I took deep breaths between the frantic beats. "You two are battlefield generals. Of course I wouldn't let my position of commander obscure your talents. Once Pingyuan County falls, you'll both receive new appointments."

They bowed together: "Thank you, Master! What would you have us do next?"

I said, "Go separately to create chaos and recruit troops. In a little while Linglong and Yun Yao will assassinate Bai Lang. That leaves only the other vice-commander Wei Bo in Pingyuan County."

Ding Qianhu frowned. "Master, Wei Bo is Duke Dongwang's nephew. Though he holds only a vice-command position, Bai Lang still consults him on many matters. Why not kill him too?"

A light bulb went off in my head as I thought it over: "Good idea! That would leave only commanders of the thousand-soldier rank in Pingyuan County. At that point Ding Qianhu, you can use grain supplies to win their loyalty while Liu Baihu leads your men underground. Have everyone recommend you for command!"

Liu Baihu said, "Your strategy is brilliant, Master! Once Xiao Dingzi becomes commander, he can order the entire Pingyuan County garrison to surrender and welcome the imperial army against bandits into the city."

I told Ding Qianhu: "But your safety will be at risk. With over ten thousand soldiers in Pingyuan alone, a new commander may struggle for authority. I fear someone might attack you if you propose surrendering before battle begins."

Ding Qianhu gritted his teeth and said, "Master, there's no such thing as free fruit. I'm willing to try—even though I don't really want the position of commander. After welcoming in imperial forces, let their commanders handle command duties."

I said, "That can be decided later. As long as you two have confidence and courage, we'll follow this plan. Let's go get the supplies first. The grain convoy also carries a batch of Thunderbolts which should help our cause."

Liu Baihu tore off his sheet to wrap five heads in it before exiting Shen Mansion. Linglong arranged for Sun Chang and Hong Guang to guard me, while Sun Chang and Hong Guang reported back on their reconnaissance at Bai Mansion. Before Linglong and Yun Yao departed for the assassination mission, I nervously grasped Yun Yao's hand and said, "Be careful. If danger arises, cancel the plan immediately."

Linglong impatiently replied, "Oh come now Master! Why don't you think about your own safety instead? Don't worry—it's just me and my sister working together, we're invincible in this world. We'll even bring back Wei Bo's head as an extra bonus!"

I told Linglong firmly, "Be serious with me. I'd rather they remain alive than let either of you take any risks."

Linglong stuck out her tongue playfully, "Understood Master! But earlier you really scared the living daylights out of me. When my sister and I aren't around, be careful, Sun Senior Brother, Hong Guang Senior Brother—we need to protect our dear Master well!"

They bowed in unison: "Yes, Captain! Don't worry about anything. We'll fight tooth and nail if necessary to keep you safe."

After parting with them, I joined Ding Qianhu and the others at South City Tower. Ding Qianhu asked the hundred-soldier commander guarding there: "What's our status?"

The hundred-soldier commander said, "Master, please rest easy! All forces on South City Tower have been replaced with our loyal men. The wall soldiers are trustworthy as well—and in the distance this dark rainy night will prevent any observation."

Ding Qianhu nodded and added, "Good. When someone approaches the southern gate tonight don't shoot them. If they knock three times, open the door to let food supplies into the city."

The commander accepted orders before returning below. Soon after a low murmur reached our ears from the ground. Moments later he reappeared up on the tower: "Master! I heard three knocks at the gate and opened the southern city gate immediately. You won't believe it—there are one hundred grain carts outside! Our men are pushing them in now. As per your instructions, we've stored everything secretly for safekeeping. After this is settled, my men will come up here to eat."

Ding Qian asked him to draw the commander aside for private instructions: "Try as hard as possible to recruit more loyalists. Any soldier willing to work hard for me can join our feast, but those who remain diehard loyalists of Shouwang might as well starve themselves to death—saves us from having to kill them."

The hundred-soldier commander replied, "Understood Master! You've always been generous to your men. Many will follow you willingly."

Ding Qianhu continued, "Good. Tell the other commanders who can recruit a thousand soldiers they can become commanders themselves. Soldiers who bring in one hundred men can be promoted to hundred-soldier rank. The same applies for squad leaders—except remember this: if anyone recruits people who later cause problems, we'll all share the chopping block!"

The commander solemnly said, "Understood Master! We'll handle everything carefully and meticulously to ensure not a single error."

A low shout came from below city level as the hundred-soldier commander hurried away. Moments later he returned: "Master! Some of our supply soldiers wish to see you personally."

Ding Qianhu glanced at me sitting beside him, I nodded in agreement, and he said, "Bring them up."

A man quickly entered the tower—it was Macat (A Miao). I gave Ding Qianhu a subtle glance. Understanding my meaning, he dismissed all men from the tower before Macat bowed to me: "Master! We've been ordered to protect you personally."

I said, "Why would I need protection here? I'll contact you by telephone if anything happens."

Macat replied, "No way Master! This is a combined order from both imperial supervisors. If any harm befalls you, my hundred brothers and I won't return home alive!"

Frustrated, I said, "Fine then. You can stay to help train Ding Qianhu's men in using Thunderbolts. Tonight let's make Pingyuan County chaos incarnate—the city should fall tomorrow or at the latest by day after."

Realizing my importance now, Ding Qianhu suggested: "Master! We'll handle all the chaos ourselves. Return to Gangzi's house—it's quiet and unnoticeable. Even if things turn chaotic here it won't affect you there for a while. If anything arises I'll send word at once!"

Liu Baihu added, "Yes Master! Over ten thousand city defenders—many of them starving after three or four meals. Who knows what might happen? For your safety please leave the battlefield areas."

Even Macat said, "Master, Xiao Ren (the servant) agrees with this plan as well."

I sighed in resignation: "Fine then. Let's return to Liu Baihu's home."

Thick curtains blocked light from wooden windows at the cabin. Wan Niang anxiously waited by lamplight, umbrella forgotten. When she heard knocking and rushed out without one, she collapsed into her husband's arms sobbing when she saw him: "My beloved husband! You've finally returned! I don't care about revenge—I just want you safe!"

Liu Baihu slammed a burlap bag full of heads on the ground: "Wan Niang—do you recognize these men?"

The curtains unraveled and the sight nearly fainted Wan Niang with shock. If not careful it might cause a miscarriage! "My husband, what is this?!" she gasped in panic.

Liu Baihu said, "These are the five who defiled you. I've now avenged your honor—see? Your reputation has been restored so you can live properly from here on."

Wan Niang embraced him tightly: "Thank you my husband."

I told Sun Chang: "Since Wan Niang witnessed justice served, please take these items and bury them in a secret location."

"Yes Master," he accepted the orders before dispersing. The rest followed suit leaving only me, Liu Baihu and Wan Niang alone in the house now.

Liu Baihu continued: "Wan Niang, this was all made possible through Master Zhao's behind-the-scenes support. Without him you wouldn't be alive today. That is why I intend to repay my debt by serving him faithfully from here on."

Wan Niang replied, "My husband, that is only natural."

Liu Baihu added sorrowfully: "But this means I won't accompany you into hiding anymore."

Wan Niang said gently, "Wherever you go I will follow. It doesn't matter where we end up as long as it's with my beloved."

I told Liu Baihu: "Don't worry—after resolving everything here I'll send special guards to escort Wan Niang back to Shuangcheng. There we'll arrange a new home for both of you."

Wan Niang seemed startled: "Shuangcheng? My husband, didn't you always want our child to live there? Our dream is finally coming true!"

Liu Baihu bowed respectfully: "Thank you Master."

After some conversation the couple returned to their room to rest. Wan Niang was exhausted from waiting by candlelight all night with her pregnancy. Knowing I couldn't go anywhere either, I sat alone for a while before lighting my lamp and heading into another room to prepare for bed.

A creaking sound followed immediately—Linglong's silhouette emerged behind me. She clanged weapons onto the table: "Master, I'm back."

"Where is Yun Yao? Nothing happened right?" I asked worriedly as only Linglong appeared.

She pouted childishly: "You always care more about Yun Yao sister! Why didn't you ask first?"

I said, "Aren't you fine? Just tell me what happened to Yun Yao."

Linglong exclaimed, "No telling!" Then she giggled mischievously before adding, "She had personal business at camp—something only men understand, so don't ask about it!"

Cut! I knew exactly what Linglong was referring too. Yun Yao's period should have arrived soon, but with all the traveling and rain exposure it must be here now. Poor wife working hard for me while suffering—it truly breaks my heart.

Seeing I remained silent Linglong teased: "Hey, you don't want to know?"

I already knew so replied casually, "No."

Linglong pouted angrily: "She's your wife and you don't even care about her!"

I said, "Who says I don't? But what help can I provide for that situation? Just need to make sure she never gets caught in the rain again from now on."

A smile returned to Linglong's face: "Okay then, consider yourself a good master. Otherwise Yun Yao sister will beat you up!"

I said, "Now tell me how things went?"

Linglong asked, "Want to see their heads?"

"No need for that," I said impatiently, "Did you actually kill them?"

Linglong sneered: "These rebels are total useless. Linglong and her sister stealthily flew into Bai Mansion and severed his head before going directly to Wei's residence. Since we had no prior intelligence on Wei Bo's location, we first killed several of his bodyguards which lured him out. Then from the air we shot through his skull with an arrow—while his guards searched for assassins in all directions. We cut off his head and ran away before hanging them at East City Gate to scare the remaining rebels tomorrow morning."

I warned Linglong: "Don't act alone like this again without permission. What if something happened to you two?"

Linglong countered, "What's there to worry about? With our skills what could possibly happen? Besides we have emergency needles—wouldn't you be stingy with those?"

I said, "Of course not! Give me a million iron carts full of money and I still wouldn't trade you. But as you saw earlier when I was almost injured at Shen Mansion by that servant—it's just because of my overconfidence!"

Linglong smiled warmly: "Finally proving yourself worthy after all this time following me! You actually have some heart left. But don't worry—I'm not as stupid as you are and won't let anyone easily injure me."

I said earnestly, "Thank you Linglong."

"Huh? Thank for what?"

I continued seriously: "Earlier at Shen Mansion when you rushed to save me, I was really moved inside."

Linglong blushed, "Well... who knew being around you would make me act like this. You're always so good at making people happy—though I didn't plan on listening to you, somehow seeing you made my heart do flip-flops! And when you said not even a million iron carts could trade for me—it really..."

I interrupted: "Are you that important?"

He nodded solemnly: "That's right, Linglong. I'll bring you back to Earth where I can introduce all the other wives!"

Linglong teased, "Cut! I already know everything—there's a beautiful Dragon Lady sister, an officer named Xiaorou, twin sisters we can't tell apart, a Qiqi sister who likes being abused by you, and sweet little Susu—"

I interrupted: "You really do know everything."

Linglong continued, "My sister Yun Yao tells me anything. And she said you're a total pervert!"

"Ah, what did she say?" I asked anxiously.

Leaning close to whisper in my ear she said, "She said you like watching her undress!"

Blushing furiously down to my neck (how could such things be discussed with children?), I thought of how much better it would have been if Yun Yao had just kept silent about that!

As Linglong folded the bed, she said, "Master, morning is approaching. You should sleep now."

There was only one bed so I asked her, "What about you? Rest here while I take a short nap at the table."

She replied, "How could I let you suffer like that! Sleep—my youth can handle it!"

I smiled slyly: "So am I old then?"

Linglong protested: "I meant comparatively speaking of course!"

I suggested, "Then we sleep together."

"Ahh!" Linglong jumped back instinctively. Her legs wouldn't move as she stuttered, "Thi—this—is—it's okay?"

I said simply: "One side for you and one side for me—we won't disturb each other in the least."

Unable to see her face with her head down, I heard a quiet "Okay" before she obediently sat at the bed corner. After blowing out my lamp and lying down, I heard rustling as she cautiously crawled to the very edge of the mattress.

Neither spoke—awkward silence reigned between us on this "bed sharing." Especially for women in feudal Shuangcheng State where such cohabitation was extremely rare.

Through a thin wall we both heard strange

Linglong smiled brightly, "Truly? From now on you'll treat me as a girl instead of a child?"

I replied, "Sort of. But your body hasn't fully matured yet—three or four more years and you could be ready for marriage."

Linglong pouted indignantly, "Who says I'm not developed? You're just guessing! Lady Yunyao told me when this happens it's the true mark of womanhood! You know nothing and still dare to assume things!"

I flopped back with a sigh, "Well then. Let me sleep."

In the darkness I climbed onto the bed, only for the petite figure to slip in beside me moments later. Her breath whispered in my ear, "Husband, Lady Yunyao said every woman must have courage to pursue happiness, or she'll live with regrets forever. Tell me, do you think I'm brave enough?"

Her teeth grazed my earlobe, sending shivers through the rain-cooled skin of my body. The sudden chill was strangely arousing.

"Husband," she murmured against me, "Linglong loves you. Is this bold?"

I gently pushed her away, "You're... you're quite forward for someone so young."

She whispered conspiratorially in my ear, "Husband, how can you know youth is a barrier without even trying? Lady Yunyao says you enjoy Loli—though I don't understand what that means."

Her touch had me twitching with nerves, yet her words only increased the tension. My trembling hands roamed upward along Linglong's waistline, retracing the path I'd unknowingly taken while treating Lady Wu in Wu Mansion. They finally found themselves cupping two small, firm orbs crowned by tiny buds. I couldn't help but gently squeeze through her clothing. A shuddering breath escaped from Linglong's nose.

"Husband," she whimpered, "it feels so good—will you rub again? Please?"

A strange thought crossed my mind. Were all women this... eager beneath their modest exteriors here? It certainly suited me well—I always had a soft spot for proper ladies with hidden desires. The contrast alone was enough to send me into overdrive.

As I reached to undo her clothing, she suddenly grasped my wrist. "Husband," she breathed urgently, "Lady Yunyao might return at any moment! She'll be angry if she sees us together. You know Linglong belongs to you since the day in Wu Mansion. Please don't make me feel ashamed tonight..."

So that's why she gave herself silently back then. The heavens above—what about when I touched Maris and Marice? Should've performed CPR on Xu Chen earlier, maybe even thrown Cai Jingjing into the Moon Sea too! If I'd taken advantage of them like this, they'd be in my Zhao Mansion now.

My thoughts rambled while my hands moved without hesitation. Women needed sexual satisfaction deep down, especially when facing their beloved men. Letting Linglong leave disappointed would give her lasting psychological damage. Her age wasn't an issue anyway—it was just a simple touch. Plus she was close to Yunyao and Su Su, had even saved my life. Could I truly disappoint her?

My hands continued kneading the small mound in my arms as Linglong moaned, "Husband, it feels so good—my body tingles like ants are crawling through me! Press harder... oh no, wait—I need to use the privy quickly! Let me go before it's too late..."

Linglong fell into a deep sleep. The first time's overwhelming pleasure had sent her drifting off contentedly. Only twelve years old with impressive martial skills yet completely inexperienced in matters of the heart. If this were Yunyao, she'd surely remember to relieve my tension—especially when one part was getting rather... insistent.

I took a quick nap on the desk before being jolted awake by distant explosions. The chaos in Pingyuan County had begun. Linglong should've been alert but her exhaustion and pleasure kept her sleeping soundly, occasionally letting out soft moans that made my heart race.

A creaking door announced Yunyao's entrance. We'd rested here earlier before the soldiers mentioned I was resting. Without hesitation she wrapped herself around me.

"Dear husband," she purred into my chest, "thank you for worrying about me. I'm fine—no need to treat me like porcelain. By the way where is Linglong? I sent her back with news."

"She's sleeping there," I replied, voice muffled against her hair. "She was exhausted..."

Yunyao seemed to sense something between my legs and gently touched it, "So why has this part decided to misbehave then? Have you been imagining Linglong while she was... well?"

"Of course not!" I protested quickly before adding weakly, "It's just that Lady Wan stimulated me earlier..."

Yunyao was still a child herself. Her curiosity led her to ask, "What happened exactly? Tell me."

I recounted the events with dramatic flair. Yunyao kissed my cheek and said, "Husband dear I know what you're thinking but this isn't convenient. What if Linglong wakes up?"

Without replying, I pulled Yunyao's head down toward me. Let her see—she'd already seen before anyway. Besides, I'd touched her chest! What difference would one more look make?

Yunyao made no real effort to avoid Linglong either. Reluctantly she leaned beneath me as I sat in the chair. The pleasure that followed far surpassed anything from voyeurism or clothed groping—especially when climax finally came with an explosive release. Yunyao worked wonders, delivering a full performance that left me floating on clouds once more. After cleaning up we lay at the opposite end of the bed.

Linglong stirred slightly there, her small hands clutching the quilt beneath her and murmuring incoherently. Dawn was breaking as chaotic noises grew louder within the city.

South Gate Captain Ding's men had been dining all night long, their constant meetings causing panic among the various garrisons.

By morning the defense commander Bai Lang and his two deputy commanders Shen Nian and Wei Bo were all beheaded. The remaining captains descended into chaos—within hours of discovering the deaths, two immediately declared themselves new commanders only to be deposed within days by other captains allied with the three families. By dawn, no clear authority remained.

Eventually the captains gathered together for discussions. Most agreed to immediately report to Prince Shou for a new commander. Without proper leadership this battle couldn't succeed regardless of how many were killed. A fresh commander from outside would help quell ambitions.

While deciding on their next commander at night, soldiers began fleeing due to starvation. Three of the four gates saw continuous desertions as imperial forces offered lavish banquets with endless food and wine. Long-range trebuchets launched strange smoking fireballs into the city—though rain prevented much damage, occasional explosions still injured many defenders. Morale crumbled rapidly when faced with such advanced weaponry.

Loyal captains to Prince Shou convened through the night only to find their way destroyed by monsters mid-morning. The remaining survivors were killed by unknown forces. From generals to lieutenants, everyone was dead by dawn. After five days without food, over 10,000 defenders finally lost all restraint.

With no officers above to command them, three gates opened at noon as entire units abandoned their weapons and ran toward the imperial banquets like starving ghosts feasting on death. Their enthusiasm infected civilians throughout the city—commoners had no loyalty anyway, so the surrender became completely uncontrollable even for Captain Ding. Tens of thousands descended upon the banquet halls forcing imperial logistics to deploy 5,000 cooks just to feed them.

Only the 4,000 defenders at South Gate maintained formation since they'd been prepped in advance. Familiar with the city's layout, they now acted as temporary police forces from occupied South Tower to prevent further chaos.

At night while dining at General Mansion discussions continued in disbelief—such an agricultural powerhouse had surrendered without a single casualty! The miraculous capture of Pingyuan confirmed what many already suspected: gods did indeed walk among men.

The Ma sisters were particularly exuberant. Maris nearly crowned me with a golden circlet before dragging me aside when the meeting hadn't started yet, "Dear brother-in-law you're amazing—I was wrong about you! First I apologize for doubting you earlier. Not only did we take Pingyuan without losing anyone but we also captured over 13,000 soldiers! With such talent I'm certain my sister is delighted—you know she's been worrying about you these past two days to the point of sleepless nights!"

"Your Majesty," I said carefully, "which 'sister' might this be?"

Maris paused then laughed brightly, "Of course Yunyao, Zhou Ni and Cheng Susu! With so many wives are you even aware who we're talking about? Must we introduce each one individually?"

I knew exactly what she was up to—trying to stir trouble between me and Marice. But unlike Linglong, Marice's royal status made any relationship impossible. Better to avoid this now than face heartbreak later. I stole a glance at the regal figure seated properly on the monitor seat. Her dignified beauty carried an unmistakable imperial aura that sent my thoughts spiraling again.

Noticing my distraction, Maris continued, "So what will you do with these 13,000 captives? Better tell me so my sisters can prepare. Too many soldiers without proper care could spark a rebellion."

"I've already considered this," I said carefully, "and would like to discuss it with both monitors. From the captured forces I selected two trustworthy men to lead them as separate camps—one will remain here while the other accompanies us to Lake Yang Prefecture."

Maris nodded thoughtfully, "That's very wise of you. I'll inform my sisters immediately. Tonight they're hosting a banquet for you—don't dare refuse this command! And no bringing those two little attendants!"