At this critical moment, the three assassins of the Dog-Slaying Society lost all restraint in their speech. He Yuqing turned to the blood-soaked man with an arrow through his chest and demanded, "What did the Second-in-Command do to you?"

The man called Second-in-Command coughed up bloody froth between breaths, his abdominal wound clearly piercing vital organs now. With great effort he rasped to He Yuqing, "Madam Leader... I'm failing. You must escape with Third-in-Command. Our trade is murder and death follows us like shadows. We've been outwitted by these dog-thieves - be ever more cautious in the future."

Tears streaming down her cheeks, He Yuqing pleaded, "We'll take you to a physician immediately! Your martial arts skill will see you through this!"

The Second-in-Command choked back a laugh, "Don't be foolish. Carrying me will doom us all. Take the rooftops - we're running out of time."

Thudding footsteps heralded the arrival of Imperial Guards at the door. Arrows nocked and ready for slaughter, the guards found themselves surrounded with nowhere to hide. Just as danger loomed over them all, the fallen Second-in-Command suddenly roared from his position on the floor. With a force born of desperation, he launched himself upward through the doorway, catching the guards completely off guard. The corridor outside was narrow, its end marked by the circular atrium of Qinyun Mansion. In one final act of defiance, the dying man propelled two or three guards over the railing - and straight into the arrangement of exotic hardwood trees below. Their bodies impaled grotesquely among the trunks as they died instantly.

The remaining guards retreated in panic down to the first floor staircase. As He Yuqing and the Second-in-Command prepared their last stand, I seized her arm with surprising urgency. "This selfless act would mean nothing if you threw your life away over it! Escape while you still can!"

He Yuqing stared at me in startled recognition before demanding, "Who are you? Why do you care about us?"

I shrugged nonchalantly, "Let's just say I'm a devoted admirer from afar. The only threat here is the guards who'll be back any second - follow me if you value your life."

The excuse worked instantly on her flustered state. After all, how could she suspect an average secret police clerk would suddenly display heroic behavior toward someone as beautiful as herself? She was already reaching for my hand when the Second-in-Command's voice cut through like a blade.

"Who are you! What treachery do you plot!" He yanked her arm away with possessive ferocity, positioning himself between us like an enraged jealous husband.

I sighed, "With our lives on the line I can only hope to preserve them. We've been thrust together by fate - how many more heroes will sacrifice themselves for us before we waste their courage? Let's go while there's still time."

The desperate tone and lingering gaze toward He Yuqing didn't escape the Second-in-Command's notice. When he pulled her behind him, Yun Yao whispered urgently to me, "Let Linglong distract that man - I'll get He Yuqing out before it's too late. Macat says Grand Minister Pang is en route here himself. Never let them know she's our target!"

"Understood," I nodded. "The pretty boy has some skill but we have those weapons."

Linglong smirked, "Don't worry about hurting him - I recognized his style just now. If he was ever my equal before, that might not be the case anymore. And let's face it, our gear can outmatch anything he carries."

I raised a warning finger though, "Try not to kill him. He and Yuqing seem... connected in some way."

Both women snickered, "You're not jealous at all?"

As the Second-in-Command prepared to lead He Yuqing toward escape, a section of roof suddenly collapsed with thunderous force. A hulking figure descended from the void, bellowing threats about "retrieving the dog-slaying rebels for Grand Minister Pang."

Pang's meticulous planning had already begun bearing fruit. With his men systematically eliminated by our organization, it was only natural he'd mobilize countermeasures. Whether through a leak in the Dog-Slaying Society or my own East Factory network remains unclear - but his layered defenses proved more effective than our internal positions.

I grabbed Linglong's arm to keep her from drawing weapons immediately. Engaging directly with the Second-in-Command would only tip the balance against us now. My enmity toward Pang was well established, though I still didn't fully understand the depth of this feud. But from what little information circulated in court circles, his infamy certainly justified repeated attempts on his underlings.

The brute calling himself Taizi showed no knowledge of who among us belonged to which faction. When a trembling man tried fleeing beneath the table, he caught sight of our enemy and snatched him mid-escape with terrifying strength. The room erupted into blood and screams as Yun Yao and He Yuqing both shrieked in horror.

Though now dressed normally, Yun Yao's unmistakable appearance had finally broken through He Yuqing's confusion. "It's you!" she gasped, pointing accusingly.

Yun Yao shrugged indifferently, "Surprised? You called me a fickle woman but never realized I'm actually female either. Girls in brothels are hardly rare sights."

He Yu2's face flushed crimson as she whispered, "How did you know I was the same person under that hood?"

"From the moment you entered Qinyun Mansion," Yun Yao replied smugly. "Now see how unprepared you were against real danger? Shall we escape together now?"

Female camaraderie proved an effective bridge. He Yuqing nodded eagerly, but then hesitated as more guards joined the rooftop skirmish between Linglong and the hulking Taizi. The Second-in-Command's agility was admirable, yet his wounds began to slow him down dangerously.

My heart twisted like a prized possession being stolen. Though she'd never shown interest in me before - nor even acknowledged other men for that matter - this new emotional ache was unmistakable. Was I finally realizing feelings had taken root without my notice?

As the newcomers overwhelmed the Second-in-Command, Linglong's arrival turned the tide slightly though they still remained on equal footing. The Second-in-Command's movements were growing sluggish now from blood loss.

I casually dispatched the remaining two of Taizi's men - no more than vermin in need of extermination. Better to burn Qinyun Mansion completely rather than risk these laser burns being discovered later by Pang's forces.

With He Yuqing and Yun Yao covering each other, Linglong secured my escape as we leaped across rooftops toward safety. By the time fires consumed the building behind us, the guards had turned from warriors into firefighters too distracted to notice our rooftop exodus.

In the abandoned hut beyond city limits, a makeshift shelter for Dog-Slaying Society fugitives, He Yuqing lit candles with trembling fingers as we sealed broken windows with tattered blankets. The Second-in-Command finally collapsed onto a rickety chair after his exertions.

"You fight with remarkable skill," he admitted to Linglong in passing male voice. "And that woman's light-footedness is extraordinary."

Linglong responded with equal formality, "Your own abilities were equally impressive - we were evenly matched."

As He Yuqing bandaged the Second-in-Command's wounds, his chest swelled proudly for her benefit. "For you, death would be a worthy sacrifice," he declared dramatically.

The heartfelt declarations stirred something in He Yuqing that set my teeth on edge. I stormed out before they could see my sour expression, Yun Yao and Linglong following silently behind.

"Return to our base at once!" I growled moodily as we left them behind. "Who needs to witness this? All this for nothing - she's already claimed."

In the quiet of the East Factory safehouse later, I lay awake staring at clouds of smoke from my cigarette while touching Yun Yao's thigh. He Yuqing had inexplicably become Dog-Slaying Society leader through some strange twist of fate. Her memory loss must have erased whatever past connection existed between us.

The Second-in-Command and his "comrade" likely developed deep bonds during covert operations, judging by their mutual glances just now. Though she wasn't technically my wife or girlfriend - merely subordinate, classmate, and friend to my actual spouse - I couldn't help feeling jealous when she shared space with another man.

The realization of my feelings hit like a thunderbolt. With so many women in my life, I'd always passively accepted romantic attention without actively pursuing anyone. He Yuqing had been reserved from the start, plus being RQi's close friend made it even less likely she'd make the first move. On Earth she might never have taken notice of me at all.

Yet now the truth was clear - my heart had secretly been occupied for a long time. She'd shared my bed on our first meeting when investigating prehistoric artifacts from Africa, slept in my arms during that night's expedition, eagerly discussed treasure hunts with me... Even as her secretary back in university days she had single-handedly managed everything while I enjoyed effortless carefree days.

Now the stakes were higher than ever. With us now opposing factions - one side of the law and one outside it - this could only be a dangerous pursuit. But if there was anyone I would never give up on, it would be He Yuqing.

A smile from her could enchant a thousand hearts. The saying held true - both the second-in-command and I froze for several seconds. I felt a surge of relief at my decision; had we let their relationship develop further, I'd likely be home sobbing in secret. He Yuqing was an extraordinary beauty - to see such a goddess wed another would seem like sacrilege. Heaven once gifted her to me but I squandered the chance; now fate returned her to my path. If this time I failed to cherish our reunion, even heaven might grow angry.

We exited the courtyard stealthily. Fortunately our rest period had been long enough - if not, returning empty-handed would have forced us to mobilize Eastern Manufacturing Bureau's forces with Lijing and Yun Yao inevitably tagging along. I couldn't bear their witnessing my pathetic attempts at winning He Yuqing; it'd humiliate me beyond measure. Heaven knows they might even simulate amnesia just to force me into chasing.

The second-in-command staggered, his chest bearing a fist wound, arm slashed by a blade, and ankle kicked. My feigned concern was hollow: "Second-in-command, need I fetch you a physician?" In truth, I secretly wished him dead so I could capitalize on the opportunity. In matters of love, men must be ruthless - I claimed no nobility.

The second-in-command dismissed my offer: "Nothing serious. I'm not that weak." He introduced himself as Xiaoxiao, asking in return for my name.

"My name is Hua Qian," I said. "Hardly a hero, just adept at flattery which earned me promotion under the Commander of Hundreds." Turning to his companion with reverence, "That's our true hero - his martial arts are unparalleled."

Xiaoxiao asked, "Where did they go? The moment you left Master Chief feared we'd offended your party somehow. We barely had time to express gratitude before vanishing."

My internal monologue roared: "Indeed they've offended me! How could anyone comprehend my anguish just now?" But I transformed pain into determination - this time I'd reclaim Yuqing at any cost. You'll suffer, you fool - see if your Xiaoxiao remains so debonair.

I sighed dramatically, "To tell the truth... we intended to escape through the city gates amidst the chaos but found them tightly sealed. My friend and that lovely lady possess remarkable martial arts, capable of fleeing together." Seeing no alternative than trailing as an uninvited shadow, I remained behind.

He Yuqing's disappointment was palpable: "They left? Such formidable skills should serve justice. They could join our Dog-Killing Gang - I'd certainly honor them."

I offered my loyalty with fervent zeal: "Chief Leader, though lacking martial arts prowess, my heart burns with devotion! I'll endure scalding oil or climb blade mountains for your service!"

Before He Yuqing could respond, Xiaoxiao interjected suspiciously: "You possess an enigmatic weapon? Let us see it - you effortlessly defeated three of Pang's experts, which was astonishing."

I feigned modesty while displaying the laser gun: "Nothing special. This is a high-energy beam emitter capable of burning through stone. It belongs exclusively to Eastern Manufacturing Bureau senior personnel. I inherited it from Commander Niu who vanished mysteriously."

Presenting it with exaggerated courtesy toward He Yuqing, "Chief Leader, accept this as a token."

She briefly examined it before returning it: "We can't use such devices - they're more effective in your hands."

Xiaoxiao's original plan to borrow the weapon failed. We silently took alternate routes avoiding imperial guards until reaching an estate.

Xiaoxiao approached the gate with rhythmic knocks. An internal voice challenged, "Loyalty Hall comes to burn incense."

"Brothers vow death to eradicate thieves," Xiaoxiao replied. "How many incense sticks?" "One stick."

The door creaked open revealing an elderly man: "Ah, Chief Leader arrived - Shih Kerui failed in my distant greeting."

He Yuqing explained the failed operation and need for temporary refuge. Shih carefully scanned outside before leading us to a secret chamber.

Though an outsider by status, I gained entry through some unspoken favor from He Yuqing - perhaps because I'd saved her from that while lending her clothing?

"Shi Elder," she inquired anxiously, "the second-in-command has died gloriously and the third is severely wounded. We need to send messages to Middle City's branch but you have suggestions?"

Shih Kerui lamented: "Chief Leader, our enemies grow stronger daily. Old methods won't work - more brothers will die unless we change tactics."

He Yuqing pressed: "But what of Middle City's safety? Many outside supporters were captured - some might betray locations under torture."

After deliberation, Shih advised waiting until dawn to enter the city gates safely.

I silently rejoiced at second-in-command's injuries - if he perished it'd save me effort though I'd never stoop to harming him directly.

For safety we slept in the chamber. The second-in-command bled out unconscious while I tried engaging He Yuqing but she remained distracted, barely responding before eventually succumbing to exhaustion.

Later, her flushed face and labored breathing puzzled me - was she experiencing some strange emotional turmoil? Impossible...

The next day being Double City's New Year should have brought joy. But as Shih dispatched messengers regarding the burned Almond Tower and missing couriers, we awaited grim news.

"Chief Leader," an impudent youth barged in: "Why wasn't I told my beloved Yuqing had arrived? Don't you know how much I miss her?"

Shih rebuked sharply: "Out! Address Chief Leader properly!"

Though the boy insisted familiarity suited He Yuqing better, she dismissed his rudeness with a wave. The third-in-command's silent hostility toward him was evident - love triangles were multiplying dangerously.

The boy led He Yuqing upstairs claiming security benefits despite Shih's protests. I lingered in the chamber where the second-in-command urgently whispered:

"Brother Hua Qian, please protect her from Shi Tong."

Though skeptical about the boy's character, I needed no convincing to follow - my concern for He Yuqing surpassed even his.

Peering through a crack into Shi Tong's room, I discovered him peeping at He changing clothes. Bursting in with dramatic fanfare:

"Chief Leader! You're in here?"

The startled youth crashed from his chair while He Yuqing called out from the inner chamber.

I warned: "Another peek and I'll gouge those eyes."

Enraged, Shi Tong threatened violence until my drawn military knife silenced him.

"You dare threaten me in my own home?" he spat. "Unless you're ready to die today!"

"National laws and gang rules apply here," I countered. "Violate them and your fate will be swift."

Later He Yuqing emerged stunningly transformed into an ordinary dress - even mundane fabric became captivating on her.

"Where's the young master?" she asked, unaware of my intervention.

"He went to prepare lunch," I replied with Xiaoxiao's warning about his flirtatious nature.

She smiled skeptically but suddenly thanked me: "Thank you Hua Qian for your help."

"I should thank you for sheltering us," I humbly responded though secretly delighted at her gratitude toward my actions in Almond Tower.

"You're just following Xiaoxiao's orders," she teased about my protective role.

"Indeed, but I'm still happy to serve," I replied while internally gloating - no competition yet from that Shi boy!

Her confession about her father's death by a mysterious archer revealed deeper layers to the conspiracy involving Pang Dog and Zhao Qian...

"...That Zhao official is actually innocent of malice," I argued. "They killed him just for dining with Pang? He might have been playing it safe given his power!"

He Yuqing sighed: "Though he seemed blameless, the elders insisted on assassination. My adoptive father agreed then went personally - and died because of it."

The truth settled like a stone in my chest...

Hu Yuying nodded with a helpless sigh. "Yes, the brothers all agree. I don't have final say in this matter either. We've already planted our agents inside Lord Zhao's estate - once the time is right we'll strike again. But now... it seems we must put the plan on hold."

I wiped the cold sweat from my brow. There were informants from the Dog-Killing Society already infiltrating Lord Zhao's household, and I hadn't noticed a thing. What kind of East Factory chief was I? Enemies had taken root right under my nose without me ever realizing. How long had I been fooling myself?

A thousand thoughts flashed through my mind. Thinking I was just listening intently, Hu Yuying continued speaking: "The brothers in the central district probably ran into trouble. Just now Shi Tong told me that tonight's New Year celebration will keep all city gates open all night. I need to enter the central district and investigate what happened there. Also, staying at Lord Shi's estate isn't advisable any longer. Although Lord Shi is a senior leader of our Dog-Killing Society, since my father died the four elders have gone their separate ways. He might not harm me personally but certainly won't serve the society with full dedication anymore. I must fulfill my father's last wish - to see the Dog-Killing Society flourish!"

I asked Hu Yuying: "You want to make our society flourish by killing more people?"

Hu Yuying hesitated then replied: "Of course! Our society was founded to eradicate corrupt officials from this world. What's wrong with that?"

"I'm asking if you can realistically eliminate all the corrupt officials in this land," I said. "And second, assassinating imperial officers is a capital offense. Do you want to sentence every member of our Dog-Killing Society - young and old alike - to spend their lives hiding in underground dens? You think you're doing the people good by killing these officials, but innocent civilians will always be caught in your schemes. Just look at last night's events - countless innocents are now in prison because of this. If you truly care about common people, stop making such reckless decisions. The imperial court will eventually crack down on corruption... it just takes time."

"What! You're trying to sow discord!" Hu Yuying erupted with fury. "If you don't want to help me that's fine - I won't force you into our society anymore. But leave now, or I can't guarantee I won't kill you for the sake of silencing your mouth!"

"I ask you, chief," I said calmly, "do you really believe you have the power to kill me? Unless you can command Lord Shi's entire household, with your current strength even killing a chicken would be difficult. That's why I'm telling you to abandon this path of violence."

Hu Yuying glared at me resolutely: "If you dare leave us, I'll die before allowing you to escape with your life. You've spent too long in the East Factory - that's probably why you just spoke those words now."

I knew further persuasion was futile. Hu Yuying was a woman of stubborn conviction. Let her make her own mistakes if she must - after all, she still didn't realize who exactly sat right beside her. "Then I'll accompany you to the central district tonight," I said.

"What?" Hu Yuying looked genuinely surprised. She had expected me to storm out in anger.

"Don't you think it's reckless for a woman alone to go there by herself?"

Hu Yuying studied me carefully - with no allies left, this reluctant recruit was her only option now. "Thank you," she said finally. "I know you're a good person."

I exhaled slowly. Dammit, for the sake of maintaining my 'good guy' reputation I found myself helping an enemy. Next thing I knew they might ask me to kill myself... and how would I handle that?

Meanwhile in another secret chamber at Lord Shi's estate...

Lord Shi Hei summoned his son forward: "Shi Tong, now is a critical moment. I don't want you causing any unnecessary problems. If we can secure the support of our chief leader, the other three elders will naturally follow us. Then the Dog-Killing Society will be in our hands."

"Father," Shi Tong protested, "even if we strengthen our relationship with the chief through this opportunity, your methods won't keep her loyalty long-term. The small favors you offer won't maintain her allegiance permanently."

"How is it not effective?" Lord Shi argued. "I gave her additional forces to rebuild her power - wouldn't she remember my kindness once she regains control of the society? If only the position as Dog-Killing Society leader didn't have to be inherited by bloodlines, I'd kill her and take over directly."

"Father," Shi Tong replied carefully, "there are plenty in this world who forget favors. For long-term control there's only one solution - marriage."

Lord Shi Hei chuckled at his son's shrewdness: "You're saying we should marry the chief? You always were sharp-minded... but I know what you're really thinking about that girl."

Shi Tong grinned mischievously: "Father, if she's already come to us willingly, why would we let such an opportunity slip away? No matter what schemes we devise now, once she regains power she could still break free from our influence. But if she becomes my wife and the mother of Shi family descendants, not only will she be tied to us for life - the Dog-Killing Society itself effectively falls into our hands! It's a perfect plan."

Lord Shi Hei nodded in approval: "A brilliant strategy indeed... though I'm still surprised you found your way back to decency. Just don't forget this scheme ultimately benefits you the most!"

"Father," Shi Tong smirked, "are you also interested in Miss Qing?"

Lord Shi Hei snorted: "You idiot! Do you think your old man is so desperate he'd fight over a woman with his own son? Now explain how we'll actually convince her to marry us when there's still that Third Elder standing in our way."

Shi Tong smiled wickedly: "The Third Elder? He can barely take care of himself right now. And the chief... she's just an ordinary woman. If I first possess her body, don't you think she'll eventually surrender completely? Otherwise she'd have no choice but to die preserving her honor. But with soft words and a shared need for our family's support..." He trailed off suggestively as both men exchanged knowing glances.