I turned to Han Wei and said, "Brother Han, my family has been in the metallurgy trade for generations. However, since our country lacks mineral resources, this craft of mine has been lying dormant for decades. Now hearing about these iron ore deposits discovered at Huyang Commandery is truly astonishing. Would you be so kind as to take me personally to see your legendary mining site?"

Han Wei responded, "Why not? You once saved my life - even letting me die again wouldn't repay your kindness. However Master Zhao, it's not that I'm refusing out of cowardice. The location is both secret and heavily guarded, making entry extremely difficult."

I shrugged, "Let's try our best. No matter how much we see, just satisfying this curiosity would be worth the effort."

Han Wei nodded, "As you wish, Master Zhao. I have a subterranean passage that lets us peek from afar, though actual descent is impossible."

Turning to Ah Mao, I ordered, "Prepare food. We'll need strength to climb down those tunnels - starving ourselves won't help our cause."

Huyang Commandery itself was expansive territory, yet vast areas were squandered on unnecessary gardens and pavilions. Otherwise the populace would be forced to live beyond city walls for lack of space. Han Wei led us through familiar back routes past multiple patrols until we squeezed through a small dog-hole in one garden's wall to reach the mountain range behind Huyang.

Crouched behind an ancient tree requiring several embraces, we were now near the base and deep within the garden's rear wall where no guards patrolled. Han Wei kicked aside bark concealing a pitch-black tunnel that exhaled icy air sending chills through our spines.

"Master Zhao, please follow," he said, revealing his hand-dug shaft leading directly to the ore deposit. "However we must be cautious - there are guards below. Let's just take quick looks before leaving."

Ah Mao took point, signaling two soldiers downward first. Then Han Wei and I followed with another pair bringing up the rear. Once below, Han Wei produced a small oil lamp while Ah Mao ignited it using his fire striker.

Han Wei paused to admire the device, "Master Mao, this ignition tool is remarkably elegant - convenient yet practical. The ingenuity behind its design truly deserves my admiration."

Ah Mao replied, "Hurry up now. I'll give you one once we return. These are sold at many shops in our city by the imperial stables. Affordable and useful - if you want to wholesale them I can help with procurement."

Han Wei beamed, "Really? Thank you Master Mao! Our tunnel-digging crews would greatly benefit from these devices. Though I'm not suited for business ventures myself."

The passage widened slightly after descending the stone steps but soon narrowed again to a crawl space barely allowing single-file movement. The 500-meter trek revealed smooth walls that could only result from either regular maintenance or advanced excavation tools.

I mused, across all dimensions there always exist technologies surpassing current capabilities. Even if these weren't machine-carved, traditional pickaxes couldn't produce such fine finishes.

Wind whistled ahead as we shielded Han Wei's lamp. Soon the first two soldiers halted while our leader extinguished his light entirely. "Be silent now," he whispered, "we're inside a ventilation shaft above the mine. Feel leftward - there's an alcove where you can squeeze in to let Masters Zhao and Mao peek."

The soldiers disappeared into the narrow crevice as Ah Mao and I emerged from the tunnel mouth. A massive boulder blocked our view but below we heard chaotic footsteps. Peering cautiously over, we saw ourselves positioned ten meters high with steep angles making ascent impossible.

Surveying this cavernous chamber filled with smoke and red iron ore deposits (Fe2O3), I realized my theory was correct - Shuangcheng State certainly possessed underground deposits rather than being devoid of resources entirely. The vein's trajectory suggested massive reserves sufficient for our needs despite limited surface mining potential.

Han Wei explained, "This was once the primary excavation site but now serves as a sorting station. Workers continue downward through side tunnels though their primitive tools make progress painfully slow."

I questioned, "If these ores exist why no one speaks of them? Shouldn't Lord Shou be profiting immensely?"

Han Wei replied grimly, "You see Master Zhao, our currency system is entirely dependent on Jin State's iron coins. With backward smelting techniques and zero minting capability, even discovering ores won't help us. Worse still - such a prime resource would attract deadly competition if revealed. That's why I nearly died myself when attempting to investigate."

Ah Mao felt particularly guilty having missed this crucial intelligence, "Where exactly are these ores being transported? Surely there must be some trace?"

"The Lord keeps it secret," Han Wei confessed, "All shipments go through Liuyang to Jin State in exchange for weapons and coins. This secret trade has lasted nearly a year - without those supplies, Lord Shou's rebellion wouldn't have succeeded so quickly."

As Ah Mao admitted his failure in intelligence gathering, I patted him reassuringly. Such covert operations required subterranean exploration after all. My own suspicions about weapon sources were now confirmed - the mine was the missing link.

"Where exactly is this tunnel's exit?" I asked. "They must have some security measures to maintain secrecy."

"In Lord Shou's private garden," Han Wei revealed, "The estate itself is Huyang Commandery's most fortified area - even wealthy merchants cannot enter freely."

Ah Mao shook his head at the lack of informants in such a secure location. Given recent assassinations, increased security was inevitable.

I concluded we couldn't act immediately under current circumstances. Extracting and transporting ore from this heavily guarded territory would be prohibitively difficult for now. We'd have to wait until liberation.

"Let's return," I said, "Knowledge of these reserves is enough for now. The entire mountain range will take decades to deplete - let Lord Shou enjoy his spoils for a while."

Suddenly Han Wei knelt, "Masters, I'm but an unskilled man with no attachments. If you're men of great ambitions, please accept me as a loyal companion. Rather than live in constant fear, I'd rather follow your cause to freedom."

Ah Mao warned, "How do you know we lead dangerous lives that could cost us heads?"

Han Wei replied earnestly, "I see confidence in your eyes and grand visions from your words. My life is yours to command - if trust is needed, give me a chance to prove myself."

"Come then," I said, "We'll find no better use for you than this. As for our true mission... patience. You'll learn soon enough."

Han Wei didn't press further but bowed thrice in acceptance.

As we returned, I asked curiously, "Brother Han, how did you excavate such precise tunnels? No ordinary chisels could achieve this."

"Please don't call me 'Brother' anymore," he chuckled. "Just Xiao Han or Lao Han - it's too much honor for a lowly servant like me!"

I shrugged, "Names mean little to me. Just call you whatever feels natural from now on."

Han Wei hesitated before explaining, "To be honest Master Zhao, I possess an ancestral artifact capable of cutting through rock as easily as clay. It took only half a month to dig this mile-long tunnel. If not for my early suspicions about Lord Shou's ambitions and preemptive preparations, I'd have died in that chamber already."

"Like a magic sword?" I asked.

"No," he replied solemnly. "It's an extraordinary machine - once activated it automatically tunnels inward at remarkable speed with near-silent operation. Passed down through eighteen generations by my ancestors who used it for grave-robbing until modern times forced us out of business. That's when I joined Lord Shou's service... and nearly lost my life again."

As Han Wei described the device, Yuyao would have surely exclaimed "Excavator!" had she been there to care for Linglong and Xiaorui.

Though clearly not Earthly excavators, these machines shared similar principles with Xiaohui's future prototypes from her host system. Their unbreakable drill bits and endless energy supply (evident through eighteen generations of use) were particularly fascinating.

Yet I remained puzzled about their origin in this backward world. Was it some temporal anomaly transferring Earth objects? The probability was practically zero.

After exiting the tunnel, Han Wei carefully sketched his machine for me while Ah Mao listened disinterestedly. Though bizarre compared to modern excavators, its fundamental workings were unmistakably mechanical - a revelation that left me stunned.

Han Wei sensing my contemplation offered, "If you like it I should give you one as repayment for saving my life. However Lord Shou has taken it from me and all I have is just this single life to offer in return."

I quickly clarified, "Brother Han, please don't mistake my interest! Your device resembles something familiar from my homeland but I'm merely curious about its origins. Rest assured - once we recover it from Lord Shou's possession, it will of course be returned to you as your livelihood depends on it!"

"Thank you Master Zhao!" Han Wei fell to his knees again in gratitude.

As night deepened and lanterns illuminated the garden where Yuyao and other ladies were conversing about domestic matters, I announced our return home.

When relating Han Wei's story, Yuyao was equally astonished. There was no way we had brought excavators here - this lineage spanned millennia predating our arrival completely.

"Could there have been pre-civilization here too?" she wondered aloud.

The other two women dismissed the idea as nonsense, "Sis, it's just a grave-digging tool! We'll simply take it!"

Yuyo explained patiently, "You two don't understand. The key question isn't about its value to us - it's about who originally created such an advanced device!"

I nodded in agreement, "Indeed, these coincidences are too convenient for my taste. Rather than pondering ancient civilizations, I'd rather write fiction."

But Yuyao countered thoughtfully, "Brother Zhao, let's not be so hasty. Earth has billions of years of life history and we've proven pre-civilizations existed there before - otherwise where would Dragon Sister come from? Or that lunar spacecraft in our skies? Given what I studied at university astronomy museum about meteorites on this planet, these twin stars' rock formations are over 3 billion years old. Could such an ancient world have developed life only recently?"

I leaned back in my armchair while brushing my hair thoughtfully, "Still... I find it hard to believe we're anything more than characters in a pirated novel from Zhu Da's bookstore."

Yuyao smiled indulgently, "Fine then, whatever you say dear husband. Let's just prepare dinner now."

As we left the room, Ma Xiaorui and Linglong exchanged knowing glances while scoffing, "You come up with any brilliant schemes yet? Watching them call each other 'husband' and 'wife' is so annoying!"

Linglong shared her frustration too - without competition from either woman, that man's attention would never shift their way. She sighed, "But what can we do even if I did have a plan? I'm still injured now..."

Ma Xiaorui smirked, "It's not like the arrow missed your most inconvenient spot! Tell me honestly Linglong - when they removed it did he touch your... ahem... private area as well?"

Linglong blushed while recalling, "I don't know - it hurt so much and then there was that anesthetic. I don't remember anything after that!"

Ma Xiaorui examined Linglong's backside critically before declaring, "I'd say close enough - he probably gave you a quick fondle."

Linglong indignantly denied, "No way! Even if he did, how would YOU know? I bet HE touched YOU more!"

Shaking her head, Ma Xiaorui mused, "He's just not interested in me. I already figured out why."

Both women simultaneously glared at each other's chests before sighing resignedly - no amount of time could possibly catch up to such natural advantages.

Our dinner took place in Linglong's room where I hoped the company would encourage her appetite. Though Gufei was recovering from deep wounds, Linglong remained bedridden despite her slender frame being healthier than his. This made me uneasy - without her martial skills nearby, our security felt incomplete.

Ah Mao announced grimly during dinner, "Master, given the tight security at Lord Shou's estate there are no gaps in their defenses. I must request you cancel tonight's operation for your safety."

The three women immediately stopped eating, eyes narrowing as they demanded, "You're going to Lord Shou's estate tonight?!"

I replied calmly, "Of course - we came here precisely to investigate Zhao Qing's secrets! Would we really retreat now just because it's convenient?"

"Absolutely not!" They all protested. "Didn't Han Wei already confirm the heavy guard presence and that Daoist in a secluded pavilion protected by over 300 men? We can't risk you doing this recklessly!"

I countered, "If any of you were trapped inside would you want me to wait patiently?"

They agreed unanimously, "Of course we'd expect you to act immediately!"

"Exactly," I said. "If Qingqing is truly there waiting tonight, I'll sleep uneasily if I don't attempt rescue."

Yuyao warned, "Are you certain you can succeed? We still don't know if this person is even female! Rushing in without preparation is unwise - these are tactics we ourselves recommended before!"

I insisted stubbornly, "My previous strategies aren't gospel now. This urgency makes me restless and angry at anyone who tries to stop me."

Silence fell as even Ah Mao quietly ate his meal. After a long pause Yuyao finally relented, "Then I'll go with you. Only I can safely infiltrate that pavilion - what happens inside is uncertain though."

I added eagerly, "Just let's scout it out tonight! Even if we fail at least we'll know the terrain better." Peering through the window at stormy clouds obscuring both stars and moons, I declared, "This overcast night provides perfect cover. Missing this opportunity would be regrettable."

Yuyao finished a mouthful of rice before commanding, "Rest after dinner. We'll strike at midnight when guards are most fatigued. Everything must follow my plan - no independent actions from you!" Seeing I still hesitated, she continued earnestly, "Brother Zhao, remember - you're our central pillar. Any harm to you would devastate all of us."

Though Yuyao spoke generally about 'us,' both Ma Xiaorui and Linglong nodded solemnly, "Yes... we'd be lost without you."

Finally defeated by this feminine pressure tactic I sighed in resignation, "Fine - whatever you say as long as we can confirm whether that person is truly Qingqing."

The cat left before he had finished his meal, knowing full well that he needed to make arrangements in advance. The four brothers were the earliest of my followers and remained the most loyal subordinates I had ever had. My very existence already greatly affected their future, for they valued my life more than their own. Originally the most strictly guarded place, the Shou was now even more vigilant due to war and upcoming banquets—how could the cat afford to take such a perilous location lightly?

Yun Yao returned to her room, while Ma Xiaorui bid me goodnight before departing with reluctance. The personal guards removed food from Linglong's quarters, leaving only us two in the room for the time being. Linglong lay there, hesitating whether to speak or not, then suddenly sat up and began undressing openly in front of me without any hesitation.

I was taken aback, mistaking her actions."Linglong, are you going to sleep? I'll just leave now."

Only to find out she merely removed the outer layer but kept on the undergarments. Instead, she started putting back her tight-fitting military attire from before. "What are you doing?" I asked in confusion.

Calmly Linglong responded,"I'm coming too."

Snatching the clothes away, I insisted."You're crazy! You still have an injury—lie down and rest properly."

Yet again she wrestled it back,"No matter. Miss Qingqing is your everything, but to me you are my treasure. I won't allow any harm to befall you. Though both you and Yun Yao have advanced gear, our reflexes aren't as quick as mine, and I do martial arts—far more effective than laser guns in crucial moments."

As we struggled over the half-dressed clothes, she ended up pulled into my arms. The silk blouse was barely fastened anyway, revealing slightly her collarbone and a pink lace-cupped bra peeking through. She cried softly,"Master... I don't want to be away from you anymore."

My hands hovered uncertainly between holding her tighter or letting go."Linglong, stop crying. I just wanted to check things out—I never said anything about killing the Duke of Shou. Why are you so afraid?"

Through sobs she replied,"Because I'm scared! If you don't let me follow it means you don't trust me. Since Hulucun village I've been right behind you, hasn't my sincerity always been clear?"

Finally my hands settled on her back. The softness was akin to Ma Xiaorui's. I could clearly feel the straps of her bra through the cloth. Young girls' competitiveness often led them to wear push-up bras despite being flat-chested—probably to boost confidence in a world where self-esteem mattered.

"I understand, of course I do," I murmured, cradling her back. "But you're still young. Wait until you grow up and Master will definitely marry you." It was the first time I made such a promise. Linglong's loyalty had become one of the most challenging bonds to repay since arriving on this twin planet. She ensured our safety both in public and private, managed my daily needs before Yun Yao arrived, and still meticulously organized everything for me each day—treating every item like precious artifacts with an attention that even made Yun Yao secretly smile.

What had I ever done in return? Nothing! And yet she never expected anything back. Her love was selfless, only wishing to stay by my side all her life. With so many wives already, tonight I would have to endure Yun Yao's disapproval just to grant this girl what she desperately needed. Though still young, adopting a daughter-wife should be acceptable.

Linglong clearly hadn't expected happiness to arrive so suddenly. She had mentally prepared numerous arguments in case of rejection, but now everything was in chaos."M-Master... am I dreaming? You're really going to marry me? But I'm just your maid—I don't deserve you."

I laid her back down gently,"Who said you were a maid? Did I ever buy you from anyone? You are free. In fact it's me who selfishly clings onto you each day without letting go. With such great martial arts skills and beauty, perhaps I am the one unworthy of your affection. When you turn sixteen, Master will personally visit your father for an official proposal—agreed?"

Linglong looked at her bare surroundings as if even rocks suddenly bloomed into flowers."Master is so kind... now I can finally rest easy."

Tucking her in carefully,"You're injured—get some sleep first. I'll be going out now."

Linglong obediently closed her eyes."Yes, Linglong will obey Master's every order."

Hehe, accomplished. Such a small girl with simple thoughts was indeed easy to console. After all, it was merely promising marriage four years from now—not demanding immediate intimacy tonight. If she still desired me in four years I would gladly marry her; if not, I wouldn't force anyone. Women were never compelled into anything.

The door didn't stay closed long before Ma Xiaorui crept back in. The blissfully dazed Linglong was soon jolted awake from her dream,"Linglong! What did you two do?"

Her eyes sparkled with a thousand twinkling stars."Master just promised to marry me!"

"You're lying!" Ma Xiaorui erupted, furious. Her elder sister was so exceptional and royal yet he had not even proposed before now but first offered marriage to this little girl—how utterly unreasonable!

Unfazed by Ma Xiaorui's anger, Linglong remained staring at the ceiling in dreamy happiness."I'm telling the truth! Master said it himself—we'll be married when I turn sixteen. He will personally visit my father for an official proposal then. I won't have to worry anymore about being by his side forever!"

The sound of Ma Xiaorui's grinding teeth echoed through the room,"Zhaoshuan! You despicable beast—you can't even leave a twelve-year-old girl alone! How vulgar, how disgusting, how shameless..."

While Ma Xiaorui raged below, Linglong continued her daydreaming of sixteen years old wearing beautiful wedding attire seated among all his other wives. He treated every sister equally after all—certainly wouldn't be cold to me either. Though sharing one husband with so many women seemed absurd, who could resist someone as exceptional as him? The more competitors there were the harder I would have to work at pleasing him!

After exhausting her insults Ma Xiaorui paused to rest. Seeing Linglong completely ignored her outbursts she resorted to sarcastic remarks,"Little Linglong, don't get too excited—this guy is a master manipulator. You've probably just been taken in by his tricks."

Linglong immediately protested,"Impossible! Master would never lie to me!"

Climbing onto the bed beside Linglong, Ma Xiaorui whispered into her ear,"We'll see about that. Tell me now—are you a girl or a woman?"

Deliberately feigning maturity, Linglong replied,"I'm a woman already. Yun Yao said once girls start menstruating they become women and not children anymore—have you started yet?"

Ma Xiaorui scoffed,"I began my period right after turning ten. Shouldn't that make me more of a woman than you?"

In this comparison Linglong naturally felt inferior. Her development was inevitably slower due to the harsh life compared to her royal princess friend."Probably... but Master prefers me over you anyway."

This only made Ma Xiaorui angrier, silently compiling all her curse words again,"Look, even though you're a woman now he's still indifferent toward you. I bet that promise about marrying you when you turn sixteen is just an excuse to placate you temporarily."

Linglong wasn't having it,"You're wrong! Master never breaks his word. I've followed him long enough to know for certain!"

With casual ease Ma Xiaorui continued,"I'm not lying at all. Men are like that—they can make lies sound more truthful than the truth itself. Tell me, how would you describe your master's relationship with my sister?"

Linglong thought carefully. Recently he had kept giving excuses about discussing official business that often dragged on until midnight. There weren't actually so many important matters to discuss with a military supervisor, and he always forbade Linglong or Yun Yao from accompanying them. So she replied,"The relationship between Master and your sister is abnormal. I need to warn Yun Yao."

Ma Xiaorui grew more furious by the second,"That's jealousy plain and simple—allowing you to cause trouble but not my sister! Let me tell you honestly, my sister already slept with him..."

"Impossible! That can't possibly be true!" Linglong shouted back in disbelief. "Ma Xiaorui, you're just trying to provoke me—I won't fall for it. Yun Yao said Master swore on his life that before all eight of her sisters are reunited he would never touch any other girl!"

Seeing Linglong's growing anxiety only made Ma Xiaorui more smug,"I already told you—men aren't good people at all! They can make lies sound truer than truths themselves. I watched with my own eyes as his hands gripped the fullness of her breasts and he kissed her while pressing himself onto her body..."

Of course she hadn't actually seen anything; it was just her imagining herself in Ma Xiwu's position, reenacting what happened between her sister days ago."Stop! Stop!" Linglong pulled up her blanket to hide beneath it. "You're lying! Master would never do that—it must be jealousy from you!"

Ma Xia'ru climbed up,"Alright then, since you won't believe me I can't force it on you. I'll just leave now. Four years... no one knows what will happen in four years. Poor thing, believing such nonsense."

Once the room fell silent again Linglong's doubts began to creep back. Yes, there were still four whole years between now and then—how could she be sure what might happen in that time? She couldn't just remain complacent any longer. If Ma Xiaorui could talk about it so vividly, perhaps Master really did have relations with Ma Xiwu after all! How to prevent her from grabbing him first? She had already noticed his intentions weren't pure, always pretending to give picture cards while trying to seduce men. Fortunately she wasn't here this time—otherwise her injury would limit movement and monitoring their interactions would be impossible.

Right, taking advantage of Ma Xiwu's absence now was the best opportunity to secure Master completely! If she didn't do something soon she might go mad from worry. Ma Xiaorui was right—the start of menstruation marked womanhood, meaning one's body had developed enough for intimacy already. After all, there were plenty of twelve-year-old girls who got married in mountain villages anyway. Though the law stated sixteen as minimum age, fabricating an earlier birthdate would be easy to get away with.

The night was dark and stormy—the perfect time for murder, arson or kidnapping! I carried Yun Yao through the darkness toward the Shou as indicated by Little Cat. Even at midnight the entire compound remained brightly lit; such defenses were nearly impenetrable except from above.

Without internal support we had to search stealthily in midair. The Shou was vast but with few pavilions in the back garden, allowing us to quickly locate Han Wei's described three-story building. The first and second floors were dark while only a faint light glowed on the third floor—never finding any of the iron mine entrances mentioned by Han Wei.

We descended silently without alerting any guards. Who would notice two black-clad figures against pitch-black skies? Even if they did look up, detecting silhouettes in total darkness was impossible for them. I gently landed with Yun Yao on the rooftop, descending slowly along the water tank's ladder to the main hall where lighting wasn't so dim anymore.

A small yellow lamp flickered weakly but steadily. The hall was tastefully arranged with musical instruments and paintings—this Zhao Qing seemed cultured indeed. Though whether Qingqing liked these things or not eluded me because she always chose to discuss medical knowledge even after... well, I don't recall her ever being interested in art.

A creaking door interrupted our thoughts. I pulled Yun Yao behind the shadowy screen just as a deep voice bellowed,"Hey! Bring more girls here—where did they disappear to? Someone find me!"

The first and second floors instantly lit up with lights followed by chaotic footsteps as Zhao Qing demanded more women.

Yun Yao whispered in my ear,"It's not our Qingqing—it's some lustful Taoist. Fortunately we descended from the third floor since those lower levels were completely occupied."

My hopes crashed—how could someone so coarse-voiced be Qingqing? This Taoist was demanding women at three am! I wanted to punch him for naming himself Zhao Qing as well. If this wasn't Qingqing then where exactly had she gone?

Peering through the shadows was risky, so we listened quietly while three sets of footfalls climbed up."Daoist, your requested girl has arrived—please enjoy."

The coarse-voiced Zhao Qing replied,"Bring her to my room. This woman better be obedient—I only want virgins. I prefer young girls!"

I made a face internally—deadbeat Taoist! Cost me all this excitement just for a name coincidence. Where had Qingqing gone anyway?

A soft voice emerged from the room,"Daoist, let me suckle you first. My flute playing is first-rate in the entire Lake Yang region and I'm also skilled at..."

Yun Yao shivered slightly,"Honey, since we've already heard this—this Zhao Qing is clearly a pervert. We should prioritize safety and retreat."

I wanted to burst into the room and stab him for wasting my time. But remembering promises made to Ma Xiwu as well as Emperor and Minister Pang if he died who would create our life-saving elixir? I certainly couldn't hand over my miraculous needles!

Extracting Zhao Qing was impossible with so many people below."Yun Yao, even carrying you I can't carry him too. Taking either means we must abort the mission. Otherwise we'll have to stay and listen to their... intimate sounds."

We stealthily ascended toward the rooftop just as the young girl added,"Daoist, your skin is so smooth—I'm envious! From behind you'd look like a beautiful maiden without those clothes on."

The Taoist grumbled,"Drink it up!"

"What's this? I dare not drink!" she protested.

Angry now he barked,"Do you dare to disobey me?"

Gulping sounds followed."Daoist, why do I feel so dizzy..."

He chuckled sinisterly,"Have you heard of how the Daoist enjoys playing with drugged girls?"

Yun Yao lifted us into the sky, nibbling my ear as she whispered,"Honey, like this one better than your previous ones?"

I spat down at the building below and sighed in disappointment,"Qingqing... where exactly are you?"

Yun Yao shared my sorrow."Yes, and Yu Qing and Qian Qian too."

Circling around Shou we observed its general layout. The buildings were maze-like—easy to get lost if entering as a regular person. Night patrols with torches were everywhere plus occasional dark figures emerging from corners indicating hidden guards.

As war intensified, long-forgotten technologies rapidly re-emerged—a benefit of conflict. For survival and continuation of the species humans often accomplish incredible things.

Yun Yao flew me around Lake Yang again but my mood remained low after discovering Zhao Qing wasn't Qingqing. It felt like leaving part of my heart at Shou. Yun Yao said nothing, only hugging my neck tightly as we flew until suddenly she laughed and landed,"Honey, home sweet home—stop worrying! Everything will be better tomorrow, I'm sure Qingqing and the others will be found safely."

Looking up, it wasn't our inn but Zhao's mansion."Idiot!" she whispered in my ear. "It's Zhao's house—not Shengping Inn. Let Su Su and Ni Ni entertain you tonight while I rest. You've been exhausting even a metal man with your nightly routines!"

Through generations of development anti-gravity boots could match my supersonic speed. Seizing the moment, Yun Yao brought me back to Twin Cities under night cover. Who knows how she found her way in such darkness—but it was good we hadn't seen these two wives for so long. Tonight three women sharing a husband would be a true family experience.

Suddenly a club whistled through air toward my head!"Hey! It's Zhaoshuan!"

Dodging left I let the weapon strike ground, kicking up dirt while hearing an awkward voice,"Thought it was some thief—Brother Zhaoshuan why did you return so suddenly?"

I greeted Da Li Wan,"Missed home, how are things going here lately?"

Punching my shoulder he smiled,"Fine! Glad to see you're unharmed. Your two wives are at home—I won't disturb them further."

Though clever in many ways, Da Li Wan was occasionally too rough with his actions. He vanished into shadows after stashing the club away.

"Let's sneak in and scare them a bit," I suggested to Yun Yao, "make them think some rapist is trying to attack."

Following my lead she peeked first at Zhou Ni's room (empty) so they must be together in Cheng Susu's. We stealthily approached and indeed found two sleeping beauties lying side by side. As I gently lifted the blanket revealing Cheng Susu's barely-covered fullness

Yun Yao giggled and walked away, "Let you taste the flavor. Just a reminder - if the grinding gets unbearable downstairs, feel free to use your chest or mouth instead. Anyway, my husband is always open for business, so you two can show off your skills as you please."

Given the time constraints, I opted for a quick resolution. I first quickly fulfilled Cheng Susu's demand before focusing on Zhou Ni, though Cheng could still enjoy the stimulation of our hands on her breasts. For reasons unknown, I secretly recorded this scene - there was lesbian action here which Ma Xiaorui loved to watch.

After finishing up, we had half an hour for affectionate moments. The three of us cuddled together, with Cheng Susu so limp she could barely muster energy. She let two enormous mounds rest in my arms for me to toy with while closing her eyes to listen to our conversation.

"Brother Zhao, we know about the front-line warfare situation. Emperor Mada and his entire court were delighted, and carrier pigeons delivered news you captured East King. When Ma Xiaoda came to inform us he brought a bunch of rewards from Mada."

I didn't care much about those things - just transient possessions. "Have there been any news about Qingqing, Yuqing and Qianqian within Twin Cities?"

Zhou Ni shook her head, her silky hair scratching my neck most pleasurably, so I pulled the two tighter into my embrace while gripping their breasts more firmly. Zhou Ni said, "The East Factory's operations are now highly effective, but we still can't track down Qingqing and company in Twin Cities. Maybe they're not there."

I asked, "Originally tonight we came to Shou to investigate a man named Zhao Qing."

Cheng Susu spoke lazily, "Zhao Qing? That name is strange with your surname plus one character from Qingqing."

"Exactly," I replied, "That's why I took the risk to sneak into Shou at night. You know what - that guy turned out to be a lustful Taoist priest who sent people out in the middle of the night to find women for him. It really made me want to beat him up."

Cheng Susu laughed, "What about you? Aren't you here to enjoy us in the middle of the night too? Be gentle - crush my breasts and your son won't have any milk to drink."

I smiled, "Don't worry about that with backup nurses at home. Watching your breasts changing shape under my hands is such a thrill."

Cheng Susu warned, "Don't get carried away - if we can't return to Earth Eirena might not be able to help..."

She stopped speaking suddenly as if realizing something inappropriate. I kissed her and said, "Don't worry, I've already found the iron ore. Once our smelting technology develops, we'll refine real steel quickly enough to forge drive shafts..."

The two women became excited at this news. They preferred returning to Earth rather than staying here where they felt useless.

"Dear, we always know you can do anything. Our son must be born by now. It's such a pity his father couldn't be there during delivery - I bet that'll be Qiqi's lifelong regret."

Thinking about my unborn child who took so much effort to conceive, and how we were practically separated by the death star, QiQi must be heartbroken right now. Qingqing wasn't with her when she gave birth either. I couldn't help crying thinking about these things.

The two women noticed my tears and hastily coaxed me into moving on from this topic, though they decided never to mention it again unless we could really return to Earth.

I added, "There's another strange thing - I heard about an advanced excavation device here that's ahead of its time."

The two were also astonished after I explained everything. I said, "I haven't seen it with my own eyes yet. Once I see it in person we can confirm if it truly belongs to a prehistoric civilization."

Cheng Susu remarked, "Actually this doesn't matter much for us since whether it's ancient or modern civilization just proves the planet's history. Once our civilization advances, all of that will become obsolete."

I smiled, "True enough. But I wonder if there are other useful things left from any prehistoric civilizations here now. The anti-bandit war is entering critical stage - we have 30,000 troops against over 100,000 enemies who've already acquired sufficient weapons through iron ore trade with the Jin Kingdom. They're digging trenches to defend and in the end they still have cities to fall back on. Without superior weaponry it'll be hard for us to win."

Zhou Ni said, "Just a few primitive machine guns from Earth would defeat them easily, not to mention our metal storm weapons which can fire tons of bullets per second - even 10 million enemies wouldn't stand a chance. But it might take at least one or two years before we can manufacture those ourselves."

I replied, "Right now we don't have iron and without stamping machines or lathes for gun barrels and casings there's no way to produce them either. So I'm just looking for existing things that could be useful immediately."

Cheng Susu asked concernedly, "So dear, what are you thinking? Do you think a dozen laser guns would be sufficient?"

I nodded, "Against several thousand enemies even hundreds of laser rifles wouldn't work. We have eight cannons now but they take too long to reload and their power is limited. Unless we have thousands of them it won't help much either. My spaceship has laser cannons but since the ship can't fly I don't know what to do with them."

Zhou Ni suggested, "Do you know if the anti-gravity system on your spaceship still works? If it's undamaged we could exert minor external force to maneuver the ship, though we couldn't pass through atmosphere layers. Low-altitude flight should be fine."

I didn't even know whether my spaceship's anti-gravity system worked! I remembered not turning it on after crash-landing because that poor pig was crushed. After being too anxious about finding an exit at first I never checked properly, but it didn't matter much - we could just go back and see.

Rolling over to press myself onto Zhou Ni, "Thank you for reminding me dear wife. Let's continue our play session - I'll make you want to stop entirely."

Zhou Ni pulled me into her embrace, "Alright dear husband, I don't feel like continuing now. How did you suddenly become so clingy? No wonder Yun Yao was saying all those things earlier."

I asked, "Don't you two like this?"

They replied together, "You fool, do you think we'd let you run wild if we didn't want it? Just don't go overboard - we still have important matters to attend to. Excessive indulgence harms the body."

Sounding exactly like I reprimanded Ma Xiaorui earlier, I said, "Ni Ni's words just reminded me - we still have two escape pods left. From what I know they should also have weapon systems, though I'm not clear about details. Unfortunately those six women aren't here now to make things easier."

Zhou Ni added, "Escape pods probably do have small laser cannons but that's for shuttle ships' defense. If the machines can't deploy them it won't work anyway. We don't even know if these laser cannons are still functional either."

I said, "So this is why I always advocated using spaceship back on Earth while those women insisted on designing integrated escape pods - now you see how impractical that was?"

The two laughed, "This is just an accident. Don't blame all of it on Xiaoyudian and Xiaohui though."

"Remember finding some spacesuits in Jingjing's escape pod?" I asked.

They nodded. I continued, "Earlier Ni Ni suggested giving the spaceship some external force - these spacesuits have propulsion systems too! Even without anti-gravity systems, both escape pods and spaceships do have them. Combining the two..."

Cheng Susu and Zhou Ni sandwiched me together in front and back, "Great idea husband! Now we have three usable spaceships!"

Why didn't I think of this brilliant plan earlier? Though not very powerful, these space suit propulsion systems could be combined into a single dual-drive system attached to spaceship's underbelly. With anti-gravity assistance they wouldn't lag behind pumas or birds.

In high spirits my words became more flirtatious again as Cheng Susu's big elastic breasts pressed from behind while Zhou Ni's firm fragrant ones pushed forward. "You two are playing sandwich, planning to attack me front and back? I've seen a movie where two black guys gang-rape a white girl - one up the rear another in front, two blacks pinning down one white. The poor girl screamed until the sky turned upside down..."

The two blushed and wriggled their bodies together, "What nonsense are you talking about? We don't have your equipment to do anything like that. Let's dress quickly before Yun Yao comes over."

While dressing I asked, "How is the Horse Management Bureau situation? Any other family affairs at home? How about diamond operations? Any progress on rice research? Are paper sales going well?"

Zhou Ni answered one by one: training was in full swing at the Horse Management Bureau and diamonds had already caused quite a stir among noblewomen, so now we'd stockpiled plenty of diamonds. Some lower-grade stones would be used for Thunder Bombs while top-tier ones were polished into jewelry. As for high-yield rice research there had been some progress but field testing needed before knowing results. Paper usage was accepted by people and since they hadn't learned the formula yet exclusive sales generated great profits.

Yun Yao said she'd come back in two hours but I ended up going to get her myself. Rubbing her eyes she asked, "Which one of you is coming with me? I can't take care of my husband alone."

I replied, "We're all going. When they're not around I feel something's missing anyway. Let's go to Lake Yang for a short trip as if it's just an outing."

Yun Rao naturally understood the war situation best and asked in confusion, "Dear, are you really planning to bring them both to Lake Yang? That place is too dangerous."

I said, "Wrong! The more dangerous places tend to be the safer ones - that's what military strategy says. We'll take an escape pod to Lake Yang of course along with several spacesuits. First we investigate enemy situations and search for Qingqing's whereabouts. Second, while main forces haven't arrived yet try modifying our space suits. If we can build two flying eggs I believe it will be very useful."

Yun Rao questioned, "Do you really plan to bring the escape pod into Lake Yang? That seems impossible - such a big thing would be easily noticed by people!"

I replied, "Bring it in under cover of night and let Ma Mao find somewhere temporary to hide it. Why modify it there at Lake Yang when we can't even do that on our way marching? If our modification succeeds this will become an unexpected trump card. Even if discovered in Lake Yang we could escape using the escape pod. By the way, later you should take me back to Hulufeng Mountain again - I need to check whether my spaceship is modifiable."

Yun Rao agreed reluctantly, "Alright then since you're the head of household we'll follow your arrangements. You three wait here while I go back to Horse Management Bureau to get escape pod and spacesuits first. Later when returning all three of you can board in together - let's go visit Lake Yang together."

Before dawn arrived at its darkest moment we returned to Shengping Inn in Lake Yang City. Finding a place to hide such huge escape pods was indeed difficult, but eventually Ma Mao found an idea - there's a pond in the backyard with sufficient depth and area so we hid the escape pod inside.

Once sealed shut the escape pod would definitely be waterproof. I planned worst case scenarios where if modification failed I could just stuff people inside then let Yun Rao fly it away using ropes no matter how many heads or arms Shou Wang had, he wouldn't bother me anymore.

After sunrise everyone sat in the front hall having breakfast tea while actually sleepless all night due to fatigue and disappointment about Zhao Qing's failure. Though Cheng Susu and Zhou Ni were here with us now, apprentices at Horse Management Bureau had already taken over operations so whether they stayed or not wasn't really an issue anymore.

Ma Xiaorui ran in without combing her hair only bringing a palace maid for company sometimes - though she couldn't always handle it well. Her current appearance looked rather sexy, "Zhao Qian! Zhao Qian! Is that really Su Su sister coming? When did she arrive? Why didn't I sense anything last night?"

I replied, "Yes, she and Zhou Ni are in Yun Yao's room right now. We flew back to fetch them so you better hurry up and wash your face. Your sister will scold you for not maintaining royal princess etiquette if she sees you like this."

Ma Xiaorui knew her older sister was extremely particular about the princess's appearance standards, and running out without washing felt inevitable punishment with a beating later. She stuck out her tongue then ran off - now that Su Su sister came to visit tonight she must definitely force her to sleep together since she wasn't an innocent little girl anymore. Just thinking about her stunning figure excited her.

"Lord," Liling suddenly walked in leaning on the wall, "I heard two ladies from Zhao Manor have arrived..."

Zhou Ni and Cheng Susu just finished tidying up their room and came right in. "Liling what happened? You're injured! With such good martial arts skills how could you possibly get hurt?"

Liling said, "Ni Ni sister, Su Su sister - I'm fine! It's just that on the way here through checkpoints we had conflicts with Red Scarf Army soldiers. My leg was shot with an arrow but it's almost healed now since skin is already growing over there."

Zhou Ni and Cheng Susu each took one side of Liling to support her, "Let's go talk in our room instead so it won't bother Zhao Qian having his tea."

After they left I told Ma Mao, "Temporarily send your phone to Princess No.15 first. Since we're both staying at Lake Yang City now communication with the main camp is most important - if emergency occurs I need to know and return quickly for handling."

Ma Mao nodded, "My lord's consideration makes sense. I'll immediately dispatch people back there."

I said, "No need for that. Tonight let Yun Yao take it back instead since we have to go back to Hulufeng Mountain anyway. We could just drop by the main camp briefly on our way."

Ma Mao nodded, "Lord, if that Taoist Zhao Qing isn't who we're looking for what's our next move?"

I replied simply, "Wait."

"Wait?"

I said, "Yes - first wait until all forces are reorganized and arrive at Lake Yang City outskirts. Second wait for another opportunity to infiltrate Shou to find vulnerabilities. Third wait until I finish modifying the escape pod."

Ma Mao expressed concern, "My Lord, I think we shouldn't probe Shou again. You already went there once last night and mentioned how heavily guarded it was - if you two hadn't come from above those hidden soldiers on first and second floors might have spotted you immediately. Besides from our investigation reports, Shou Wang has been recruiting talent for years now with rebellious intentions formed long ago. Otherwise he wouldn't suddenly create East/South/West/North/Central Heaven/Earth/Human Kings! Moreover he also has many Buddhist and Taoist

"Lord, the Prince of Shou will be hosting a banquet tomorrow. He intends to invite all the dukes and generals under the pretense of celebrating his wife's birthday and his son's coming-of-age. Our troops' approach has already been reported, so this is essentially a pre-battle mobilization."

I tightened a bolt with my wrench as I spoke. "Any chance we can get in there openly? Not sneak in through back alleys or anything like that."

Ah Mao replied, "We've tracked two wealthy merchants who obtained invitations. Their security detail isn't particularly strong either. We could very well obtain their passes - those men aren't especially rotund," he added with a smirk, "and since they're not widely recognized here, some light makeup should suffice to pass as them."

"Good plan," I said. "Carry it out then. You and I will attend together. I'm curious what this Zhu Shou actually looks like. The last time we visited for the briefest of visits we didn't even manage a proper greeting - this time at least let's have two cups of wine."

"At once, my lord," Ah Mao obediently agreed without further protest, though he doubled his efforts to ensure our safety.

"How has Han Wei been lately? What's he up to?"

"He hasn't raised any red flags otherwise the informants would've reported it by now," Ah Mao said. "But I noticed he shaved his head and altered his facial features. He spends all day carrying a bronze mirror while strolling along the mountainside."

I chuckled, "That's a form of disguise too - just the most basic one. Someone who used to have long hair suddenly becomes bald, no wonder people wouldn't recognize him. I saw that 'mirror' he carries - it's some kind of geomantic device. Exactly what it does is beyond me, but maybe he's searching for an auspicious burial site for Prince Shou."

We both erupted in laughter at this. Having spent these past few days observing life in the city, my initial neutrality toward Prince Shou had gradually changed. Originally we were only here to clear out his forces as ordered. But after hearing common folk's constant gripes about his household - wife stealing and land grabbing accusations mostly - I began suspecting something rotten.

I knew of course these transgressions likely came from his subordinates rather than the prince himself. After all, who in their right mind would storm into someone's home to commit rape or fight over a few acres of farmland? Yet this only proved Prince Shou was no virtuous man, failing to discipline his men. Otherwise why weren't my troops being subjected to such misconduct? If he were truly redistributing grain and land, at minimum he should be winning hearts and minds - but instead he seems to be going against popular sentiment entirely. So helping him find a proper burial ground for himself was actually aligning with the people's will.

"How many men do we currently have under our command?" I asked once we'd stopped laughing.

Ah Mao answered, "Over fifty now. We could've had more but increased city defenses cost us nearly two dozen in recent days - some discovered during reconnaissance missions, others mistakenly captured. Escaping is proving difficult so for now we haven't devised a rescue plan."

I nodded, "Then let's proceed cautiously. The Thunderclap explosives and weapons have been brought in already. If tomorrow night presents an opportunity to create urban chaos without giving Prince Shou too much peace of mind. But remind everyone to prioritize personal safety - no matter what achievements we make, I won't celebrate if any comrades are harmed. As for those captured, organize immediate rescue operations."

"At once, my lord," the subordinate replied solemnly. "Thank you for your concern, I'll do everything possible."

"Nonsense about thanking me," I said. "I should be the one grateful - these past few nights I've noticed over a dozen brothers keeping constant watch while others sleep. Honestly it makes me uncomfortable to know they're sacrificing their rest for us."

Ah Mao insisted, "Protecting your life is our duty, my lord. As commander you embody the fate of all our troops. Only when you're safe can we remain secure."

With that he left to execute his task. I tightened both propulsion systems behind the escape pod's tail section then began setting up control circuits inside. The propulsion systems on the space suits were water-resistant so submerging them during daylight hours posed no issues. Once modified, they could be adjusted for underwater flight through the anti-gravity system though speed would obviously be severely limited due to water resistance.

"Lord, may I help?" a timid voice called from outside the door. Just hearing the term "lord" used with such deference told me immediately it was Liling. For some reason she'd been growing increasingly attentive and respectful toward me recently, making my discomfort grow by degrees.

"My injury's not fully healed yet," I said without looking up from my work. "Just sit over there and watch me work."

"But my wound is already healing properly," she protested. "New skin has started forming and it itches constantly. Yun Yao said full recovery will come within days!"

I sorted wires as I questioned her, "Why didn't you go visit the three senior sisters today? They brought back quite a few nice things from their shopping trip for you."

"I did visit them," she said sheepishly, "but they walked all day and were exhausted. I didn't want to disturb their rest." Then she added hesitantly, "Lord... You always keep your promises, right?"

"When have I ever broken one?" I asked incredulously. "Can you name a single instance when my word failed to hold true?"

Liling shook her head, "I can't find any either. It's just that Madam Ma Xiaorui claims you're a promise-breaker so I wanted to confirm with you personally."

"Don't listen to her nonsense," I said dismissively. "That woman has always been too fickle - fortunate for us she hasn't caused any more trouble lately."

Liling raised an eyebrow, "Exactly! Because even if she causes monumental disasters you'll still cover for her. Hence why she feels so emboldened to keep behaving badly. You should discipline her instead of indulging these habits!"

"Absolutely right," I agreed wholeheartedly. "Going forward I won't tolerate this behavior and will report it directly to her elder sister."

After admonishing Ma Xiaohan, Liling's demeanor relaxed immediately, no longer so subservient. "Lord! The three senior sisters taught me a type of Go game from your homeland. Would you like to play a match with me?"

While I wasn't particularly interested in this kind of refined activity, I couldn't bear to disappoint her so readily agreed. "Of course. Modifications will be completed shortly once these wires are connected then we can fly outside before returning for our match."

Liling jumped up excitedly, "Really? You mean actual flight? And you'll take me as your first passenger?"

"Who else but you?" I asked with a smile. "They're all tired from their long day plus on Earth we flew daily so they'd be bored of it already. Let's give you some fresh air after being cooped up in here these past days."

Her eyes sparkled again at the prospect. I tested the system briefly but naturally removed the original control interface which had been integrated into the escape pod itself from my spacecraft. The propulsion controls were now a small palm-sized ball originally embedded beneath space suit gloves, as simple to operate as anti-gravity boots.

For safety's sake the old control method remained in use for now. After testing it worked properly I activated the system - nothing could be heard since only electrical connections had been made without initiating movement yet.

Calling Liling inside and sealing the hatch, most of the exterior cameras were damaged but my spacecraft still had spare parts on hand so connecting a few more was trivial. Since aerial threats didn't exist in this city, such precautions weren't necessary.

I pushed the control ball in my palm and suddenly the escape pod shot skyward from the ground with a blur. Inside there was no sensation since the internal gravity system remained functional. Liling gasped at the crystal-clear visuals through night-vision enhanced cameras, even sharper than daylight observation.

She naturally exclaimed in astonishment - what kind of human eyes could compare to this advanced technology? I hadn't realized my spacecraft contained so many useful systems until now. These weren't typical consumer-grade devices or video chat equipment from Earth but specialized interstellar navigation components with superior infrared capabilities and automatic analysis features. Credit for their development belonged primarily to Xiaoyu, Xiao Hui and Longnü though Zhao sisters and Yixiaorou also contributed greatly.

Previously I had lamented lacking fetal monitoring equipment when in fact the solution was right beside me all along! How foolish of me not to consider it before. In future I'll design wearable devices compatible with mobile phone screens for real-time body scanning, photography functions, and even military applications. Who would dare accuse me of dereliction? As emperor-appointed Grand General of Armies, acquiring observational instruments is absolutely necessary for national defense - occasional entertainment value serves as vital mental relaxation.

"Lord," Liling suddenly said, "you're smiling so mischievously it makes my heart race nervously!"

I quickly reined in my thoughts about Earth women with modest figures. Let's return home to check on my actual wife instead. "Nothing at all," I replied cheerfully. "Just happy the test flight succeeded. Since you were our first passenger, this escape pod will now be named after you - the Liling-class vessel!"

"Really? Named after me?" she asked in delight.

"Certainly!" I declared. "This ship is under my command so it becomes the Liling-class permanently, not even Emperor could order otherwise!"

Liling fainted for 0.01 seconds from sheer excitement. Since night wasn't yet fully set in and we didn't want to draw attention by lingering high above the city, we ascended rapidly before completing three loops around the city then heading toward Hulufeng Mountain using ground markers as navigation points. After testing it out I realized this dual-propulsion system performed just as well as those anti-gravity boots from earlier. With sufficient anti-gravity capacity to carry multiple passengers and cargo without overloading, this was truly a spacecraft - though some might call it the "Egg" since in appearance it was simply an oval with two tiny tail fins.

"Wish to visit your parents?" I asked Liling as we flew. "You haven't seen them for quite some time."

She looked dazed but still managed to ask, "Where are we now?"

"Look at the screen," I said. "Below is Hulucun village. Let's go see them - otherwise they might accuse me of kidnapping their daughter even though we did drop by earlier!"

Liling's pride swelled instantly with a sudden sense of bringing her future husband home to meet her parents...