"Uncle Yu roared, "Who the hell are you to dare lay a hand on one of my Wolf Manor's people!"

Sun Wukong growled, "I don't give two shits if you're Wolf or Dog Manor - this is Fish Fin Gang territory and I won't stand for any trouble!"

Wolf Xiaosheng had been street trash until his father forced him to attend the academy for two weeks. He knew nothing about the Fish Fin Gang's affairs in Double City.

"Hmph! This has always been East City Four Kings' domain," he spat, "When did a pile of shit like Fish Fin Gang get any authority here? You don't even know I've shared wine with those four kings! Mess with me and you'll regret it for the rest of your lives."

"Ha ha ha..." The dwarf barked laughter. "What are you even supposed to be, you ignorant prick? Didn't you hear East City Four Kings were all butchered weeks ago? If you're really their friend I'm reporting you to Imperial Workshop now! Better sort out this relationship before New Year's if you want to spend it in jail!"

Two servants clutched their heads and struggled up from the floor. They pleaded with Wolf Xiaosheng, "Master please don't say you knew those Four Kings! They got into trouble by offending some big shots. First the Imperial Workshop arrested them then they were ambushed en route. All of them are dead now - the Imperial Workshop is investigating their entire gang."

"Wah!" Wolf Xiaosheng's face fell. These had been East City Four Kings' territories all his life. How could things change so drastically in just half a month? Worse yet, those servants suddenly bowed to Sun Wukong and the dwarf!

"Sun Boss! Mr. Midget! Our master's been cooped up reading books for too long - please don't hold it against him!" one servant begged while handing over some money. "We won't cause trouble any more, not now at least..."

Wolf Xiaosheng nearly had a stroke and so did Uncle Yu. These two servants were habitual bullies, of course only against commoners. With imperial officials everywhere in the capital city, who would dare antagonize them? Just because they were part of some gang? Could it be worse than Dog Killer Gang? Although Uncle Yu often went out for business, he lived a semi-hermit lifestyle and never bothered with street rumors.

Uncle Yu suddenly struck out - he believed only force could solve this. He kicked at the midget while grabbing Sun Wukong to use as leverage against Fish Fin Gang.

Crash! Three short arrows zipped toward Uncle Yu from high, middle, low angles. But Uncle Yu wasn't a pushover either. He ducked low and twisted through midair as "whoosh-whoosh-whoosh" the three arrows narrowly missed him before embedding into a pillar behind. The startled diners scattered in panic.

Uncle Yu's ambush plan failed completely. Two men emerged from the shadows - no older than twenty-eight or nine. They kept their heads down and silently joined Sun Wukong and the midget. Uncle Yu noticed bulges in their sleeves - definitely arrow mechanisms. Their calm demeanor and ferocity suggested military backgrounds, not common thugs.

Sun Wukong cursed, "You old bastard! Don't act like some self-righteous warlord! There are rules on the streets. If you break mine I'll teach you a lesson! You actually thought you could ambush me first? Think twice before dying here!"

The two servants clung to Uncle Yu's arms.

"Uncle please no! You don't know, Fish Fin Gang is now the biggest gang in Double City..."

"Bullshit!" Uncle Yu and He Yuxing barked in unison. He Yuxing hesitated then glanced at me, but I paid no attention. These two had been fiercely loyal to Dog Killer Gang all this time. How could they accept that Fish Fin Gang suddenly became the top dog? A few choice words were only natural.

The servants continued, "It's true Uncle! Don't you know they're close with Imperial Workshop and Palace Guards? They've become the criminal overlords of Outer and Central Cities now!"

Dog Killer Gang avoided black markets so perhaps never noticed these changes. After all, gang power shifts happened frequently. Fish Fin Gang was new to the scene while Dog Killer Gang focused on assassinations instead.

Jin Meili finally spoke up from the sidelines. "Today is Double City's Lunar New Year. I don't want any more embarrassment. If you walk away now we'll forget this ever happened and remain friends. But if you still feel wronged, let's settle it outside - don't disturb other diners."

Jin Meili paid protection money for Fish Fin Gang to guard her place. Sun Wukong worked hard for her and had become practically permanent at Shajia Bang. Over time he naturally learned about their strength through Jin Mei Li who could clearly see these troublemakers weren't a threat.

"What's going on in there?" Several Palace Guardsmen and two Fish Fin officials entered the hall. Tonight's patrols were especially heavy - New Year's celebrations plus imperial orders demanded strict security measures.

Sun Wukong approached, "Hey fellas! These two punks tried to cause trouble for Jin Boss but we've handled it already. Sorry about interrupting your patrol - I'll buy you snacks later."

One Fish Fin official punched Sun Wukong, "Mr. Monkey why so formal today? Like some scholar-official? How did that favor I asked go last time?"

Sun Wukong pounded his chest, "Don't doubt my monkey's work! It's settled."

The Fish Fin officer said, "Then thanks again. Here let me treat you all to snacks - New Year's is the season for celebration!"

Sun Wukong nodded, "Sure thing, I'll pay for dinner tonight too. These days we've been fighting constantly - time to relax. Go ahead first, I'll deal with this mess and catch up later."

A Palace Guardsman mockingly said, "Deal with what? Let me call some brothers in here! Hey if even Mr. Sun's territory has troublemakers it shows no respect at all! What with the whole Imperial Workshop patrolling these streets - they won't dare resist!"

Sun Wukong laughed heartily, "We deal with things through virtue and reason."

Another Fish Fin official said, "Cut the crap with your moralizing. Don't forget to stop by East Factory tomorrow. Second-in-command needs a word with you."

Sun Wukong exclaimed in confusion, "Wait! I just saw Second-in-Command moments ago along with Linglong... Never mind, it's confidential!"

The Fish Fin official shrugged, "I don't know the details but the message was delivered. Take care of things yourself while we patrol. If that old man gets too rowdy tell some Palace Guardsmen outside to line up archers and rain down arrows."

Sun Wukong cursed, "You guys are even crueler than me! Get out already - I've got this under control!"

Everyone watching was stunned - wasn't this obvious collusion between officials and criminals? Even I shook my head. It couldn't be more blatant - Fish Fin Gang's East Factory connection was practically written in neon lights. But what could Pang Hu do about it anyway? My guns were ready, so go ahead and challenge me.

There were many long-time patrons at the seafood restaurant who had obviously figured out this dynamic already. Only Wolf Xiaosheng, Uncle Yu, He Yuxing and company looked dumbfounded while those two servants whispered anxiously, "You see now why we can't compete? They're practically one family with East Factory and Palace Guards! Even if Uncle you have martial skills, how do you fight thousands of Palace Guards outside? You might get the whole Wolf Manor destroyed!"

Uncle Yu said nothing. He silently returned to his seat as if ready to concede. Unlike impulsive Wolf Xiaosheng he understood consequences better. Two small hooligans wouldn't trouble him but East Factory and Palace Guards were another matter entirely. Sometimes even fists couldn't solve everything.

Wolf Xiaosheng looked frustrated but the two servants held him down on the chair. My chopstick-sucking noises made He Yuxing realize something, so she dabbed my face with a handkerchief saying, "Don't mind it - they just misunderstood out of concern for me. But I believe you."

She couldn't mention "Dog Killer Gang" with outsiders around though. I chuckled, "Heh, getting mistaken is normal for someone like me anyway. Even if some random hooligan punches me a few times what's the difference? Just means I'll taste this dry-fried squid earlier than expected - maybe just got served in the wrong place."

He Yuxing tenderly wiped my face with gentle wife-like care while Wolf Xiaosheng across from us turned ashen-faced. The servants struggled to hold him down since those other villains were still nearby. If anything else happened tonight nobody would get a peaceful New Year.

Jin Meili had been watching the whole time and finally slammed her hands on the table again,

"Hey! This is a restaurant, not some love nest for you two men to flirt around here!"

He Yuxing asked in confusion, "What did we do? Can't we even avoid trouble without being pushed too hard?"

Jin Meili was an open-minded girl. She said, "You wiping his face right in front of me is unacceptable! This is my restaurant - not some male homosexual playground."

He Yuxing suddenly realized the black rose was jealous and quickly tucked her hair behind then squared her shoulders to stand before Jin Mei Li. Girls were impulsive especially when two beautiful ones were together. He Yuxing forgot she was on a wanted poster so easily recognizable as this stunning female criminal. It was already too late for me to stop it, but since the Middle City forces had partially formed I felt at ease.

"You're... you're a woman?" Jin Mei Li went pale seeing her exquisite face and generous curves.

"Yes!" He Yuxing declared solemnly, "Do you think this would affect your business?"

Jin Meili glanced at me then scowled even more,

"How could it not? Tell me truthfully - what kind of relationship do you two have that makes you so intimate?"

He Yuxing asked, "What's that got to do with you? We're here for dinner not interrogation! You're not the authorities so why are you nosing around?"

By now Sun Wukong had returned to handle things. The dwarf pulled his sleeve toward He Yuxing then Sun Wukong clamped his mouth shut. The dwarf pointed at me eating heartily, causing Sun Wukong to snicker.

Jin Mei Li was ready to explode but she merely seized my head and dragged,

"You - come with me!"

I struggled, "Why? I don't want to go!"

"Whoa!" Jin Mei Li suddenly pulled out a small knife from her waistband. Not only did this startle me but also Sun Wukong who shouted, "No!"

But Jin Meili pressed the blade against her own throat,

"If you won't come with me now, I'll die right in front of you!"

This sudden turn shocked everyone including myself. Why would this black rose go through such trouble for a stranger? Was there really something important to discuss?

"Alright alright! Don't be so reckless!" I said, "I'll go with you."

He Yuxing was equally stubborn and snapped,

"I'm going too - don't think you can do anything shady behind my back!"

A loud crash echoed as everyone turned to see what else could ruin the mood. It was Wolf Xiaosheng who had broken his chair! The two servants couldn't hold him any longer. He stood up raging, "What kind of lowlife are you anyway? Dare compete with me for a woman? Beat him up! If nobody helps I'll do it myself - my father can take the blame!"

Wolf Xiaosheng was truly enraged now. If things had proceeded normally this wouldn't matter much. But seeing He Yuxing's gentle wife-like wiping, then Jin Mei Li's jealousy and subsequent fight over me... how could he endure such humiliation? Neither could other diners who saw her beauty! Soon everyone chanted support while Sun Wukong and the dwarf rushed to protect us. Uncle Yu seized the opportunity for a brawl and the entire first floor erupted into chaos.

Just as plates and chairs flew everywhere, I suddenly felt an unknown power surge through me. Grabbing He Yuxing and Jin Mei Li I leapt out of the hall. The back door was open so with one mighty bound we vanished outside before anyone caught sight of us. As the lights dimmed inside they never noticed their targets had disappeared.

The two women exchanged glances in silence until finally He Yuxing said, "Didn't realize your martial arts were better than that couple last night - quite a hidden talent you have."

Her tone carried some reproach which stung Jin Mei Li's ears. She asked, "Huaiqian! Be honest with me - who is she? Are you two having an improper relationship?"

I hadn't even responded when He Yuxing suddenly jumped in,

"Who are you to her has nothing to do with you! We don't know each other so stop interfering just because you're a woman. Girls like you with no reason will never find husbands!"

"What did you say!" Jin Mei Li exploded but managed to restrain herself from punching.

"Huaiqian," He Yuxing demanded, "tell her how gentle I was that night!"

This caused a massive misunderstanding! That night had some accidental contact but the way Jin Mei Li phrased it sounded completely different. Upon hearing this, He Yuxing felt an inexplicable sense of loss as though something precious had been stolen from her - a feeling she'd never experienced before. A tear slowly slid down her cheek.

"What is your relationship with her?" He Yuxing suddenly asked coldly.

At that moment I truly wanted to strangle Jin Mei Li this black thorned rose! What was wrong with her? Was she trying to destroy my budding romance with He Yuxing? My plan was completely ruined as I firmly denied it, "We don't know each other at all - Yuxing please don't listen to her nonsense."

I reached for He Yuxing's hand but she violently pulled away,

"I won't believe you! I won't believe you! Huaiqian, I already told you my word is binding, but how can you lie to me? Can you at least give me some security? Did you say someone was your girlfriend - could it be her?"

I shook my head.

"Good," He Yuxing said, "then what happened that night?"

I protested, "We really had no relationship! She must have mistaken us for someone else. Maybe she once shared a tender moment with another man and just mixed up the memories!"

Jin Mei Li showed no consideration for me instead pushing me deeper into trouble. Smugly she said to He Yuxing,

"I may be open-minded but I'm not some tramp! That night he held me in his arms - it felt so safe. I smelled his scent and touched... certain parts. Even without seeing his face, such a man would remain etched in my memory forever. The moment he walked into the seafood hall I recognized him from his silhouette. No matter how many excuses he makes now, I'm not trying to make him responsible - just thanking him."

I nearly fainted. Thank me? It was better if she just killed me! He Yuxing would definitely think we had sex. If her memory never returned and my pursuit failed... Heaven help me, I'd rather die.

"Huaiqian," He Yuxing's voice turned icy cold as she glared at the "certain parts" that other woman had supposedly touched. A bitter wave of jealousy surged through her body.

"It wasn't like you think!" I shouted. Now was definitely not time to hide anymore or it would only get worse. "Yuxing, you said you'd trust me - can't you just hear my side? Things really weren't how they seem!"

He Yuxing hesitated then finally said, "Fine... I'll listen but if you lie even once I won't speak to you again! Not even if we get married would you ever win my heart."

He Yuxing wasn't some ordinary girl - she'd definitely follow through on that promise. If I ended up with a marble-hearted wife what was the point? I said, "I admit it - I did come here once before but met someone I didn't want to see while East Factory was investigating. Since Jin Mei Li is of Jinchua nationality and feared being mistaken for a spy, she hid everywhere. By sheer coincidence I fell into her hiding spot in the cellar. Later when East Factory searched there we had no choice but to squeeze into a small closet. With such limited space we inevitably made some physical contact. Then they discovered the closet so I drove them away - you know I work for East Factory, it's natural to have friends."

I wasn't lying at all, everything was rational and logical. He Yuxing finally believed me, "Alright... let's go then. Never come here again - this owner is too annoying. I don't like her."

Jin Mei Li coldly added from the side,

"Do you really think I'd believe you're just some ordinary East Factory employee?"

Trouble! This woman was about to cause me more problems

"Xin Meili said, 'You're imagining me as far worse than I am. However, I know much more about this matter than you do. Don't you want to hear what I have to say?'

Perhaps before arriving at the seafood restaurant, He Yuqing might not have listened even if offered such information. But now that Xin Meili had goaded her into confusion, she replied, 'Fine, speak then. I'm listening.'

Xin Meili said, 'There are too many ears in this place. Let's talk inside.'

He Yuqing didn't want to let Xin Meili take the upper hand and pulled me along, saying, 'Come on, we'll follow her wherever she goes. See what secrets she has to reveal!'

I strongly objected,

'Stop, Yuqing. We should leave immediately. There are more important matters at hand.'

He Yuqing refused stubbornly, 'No way! Even if I have to beg you, let me hear what she has to say first before we attend to other things. Otherwise, you're definitely hiding something from me!'

Regardless of my attempts to dissuade her, He Yuqing remained determined to uncover the truth. Consequently, both of them followed Xin Meili into her room—the one with a hidden cellar—and Xin Meili lit an oil lamp while kicking open the floorboard to reveal a concealed passage below. 'Please come in,' she said, guiding us toward the site where events had unfolded that night, assuring us no eavesdroppers could intrude upon our conversation there.

He Yuqing hesitated for a moment; after all, what lay beneath was unknown territory, and risking her safety wasn't wise. However, recalling the scene of '***' that had occurred down here, she felt an unexpected surge of indignation, grabbing my hand and descending first while subtly pinching it—a gesture indicating her inner resentment. Knowing full well there would be no good outcome from going below, I still followed, unwilling to provoke further anger from He Yuqing by staying behind.

Xin Meili entered next, holding the oil lamp aloft as the trapdoor swiftly closed overhead. Here, voices could not easily reach those outside, making it an ideal location for privacy. Once settled in the cellar, He Yuqing scanned her surroundings under the dim glow of the lamp, noting it was merely a typical storage space with nothing extraordinary—save perhaps for the memory of '***' that had transpired here.

'Speak,' she said, suppressing excitement and delivering her words with feigned calmness.

Xin Meili responded in equally measured tones,

'In truth, there isn't much to say. I only want to ask this so-called Huo Qian—just who exactly is he?'

He Yuqing was taken aback,

'Don't you dare joke around! If you have nothing to reveal, why drag us down here in the first place?'

Xin Meili addressed He Yuqing directly: 'You've only just met him, haven't you?'

He Yuqing nodded reluctantly.

'Last night,' she replied. 'What difference does that make? A short time together doesn't prove anything.'

'That being so,' Xin Meili said, 'you know absolutely nothing about his identity. You are a foolish woman to entrust yourself to someone whose background is entirely unknown. His situation isn't simple. Without clarification before committing, you'd be acting recklessly.'

'You!' He Yuqing was visibly annoyed but found herself temporarily at a loss for words as Xin Meili's remarks struck a chord. In truth, she didn't wish to act this way—especially since her actions last night had been rather impulsive. If she failed to take responsibility and refused his advances entirely, would that not make her appear even more unscrupulous? But if he were indeed her husband, then no matter how much she might behave shamelessly or seductively in the future, at most he'd merely reprimand her with a few words. After all, judging by his current expression, he seemed quite content. Men are of one nature—none would prefer a woman as cold and indifferent as carved wood over someone warm and passionate.

I feared Xin Meili might catch onto some incriminating details if the truth were revealed, so I interjected, 'Stop your suspicions! I'm just an ordinary factory guard...'

'Shut up!' Both women suddenly cut me off in unison, leaving no room for interruption. Terrified, I scurried to a corner and stood there silently. Women are strange creatures indeed—their hearts are as unfathomable as the sea. These proverbs about avoiding female entanglements were never more true. Let them talk freely; if all else failed, perhaps I could simply deny everything outright.

He Yuqing addressed Xin Meili, 'Fine then—let's cross-check our accounts. What did he say to you?'

An unexpected alliance seemed to form instantly. Xin Meili replied, 'I've already told you what he said earlier. Nothing particularly worth analyzing. Tell me your version so I can spot inconsistencies.'

'He is an attendant of a hundred households officer at the Eastern Factory,' He Yuqing explained. 'We met by chance last night and he rescued me twice. Compared to those common men who act indecently without restraint, he's been relatively decent.'

Xin Meili said bluntly, 'Let's cut through the circumlocutions. Wasn't she one of the knife-wielding assassins from the Dog Killer Gang who attacked Ding Kui last night?'

He Yuqing bristled and would have lashed out if not for her own uncertainty about whether she could overpower Xin Meili in a struggle. Smiling, Xin Meili said, 'Why are you so tense? I won't report you to authorities. The way you moved just now likely caught many patrons' attention, meaning someone is certain to expose us. That's precisely why I brought you down here—to ensure the imperial guards and officers can't find anyone once they give up their search.'

Because of this incident, relations between the two women suddenly warmed, their tones becoming more amicable in conversation. Grateful, He Yuqing said, 'Thank you. You're not so bad after all.'

Xin Meili replied, 'No need to thank me—we were both deceived by him.'

He Yuqing earnestly asked, 'What do you mean by that?'

'Let me explain my reasoning,' Xin Meili said. 'Have you noticed the color of my skin?'

He Yuqing nodded and added, 'You shouldn't concern yourself with such trivial matters. Black signifies health, after all—and your complexion isn't particularly dark. Looking at it objectively, I find it rather attractive.'

Xin Meili continued, 'True Jurchen citizens would have much darker complexions than mine. However, I am a mixed-race individual—half of my ancestry traces back to the Twin Cities region. This hybrid appearance makes me look somewhat incongruous. I returned here following my parents' final wishes and had already assured him no one would mistake me for an enemy spy...'

Xin Meili elaborated on her complete story, at which point He Yuqing said, 'Aren't you telling the same account he gave? Now that your status as a Twin Cities citizen is confirmed, there's nothing more to worry about.'

'You still don't understand,' Xin Meili replied. 'Do you really believe the emperor would show such magnanimity?'

He Yu1 was stunned and asked, 'Are you suggesting his influence played a role in this situation?'

Xin Meili seemed to grow smugly confident as she said, 'He gave me assurances!'

Suddenly remembering something, He Yuqing added, 'He also assured me of certain things.'

'So did he speak with an air of supreme authority and self-assuredness?' Xin Meili asked.

After a moment's thought, He Yuqing replied, 'Possibly—but his confidence was genuine, so I believed him.'

'What do you think gave him such extraordinary confidence?' Xin Meili continued. 'Take my situation as an example: the Eastern Factory needed to establish connections since they've been hunting me down. The Judicial Office required cooperation for registration purposes. Most importantly, he had to persuade the emperor himself to accept a foreign national—and one from our enemy faction at that! This was inherently dangerous. From the fact that only a single quota was granted for my case, it's clear Emperor didn't actually agree with my presence in Twin Cities. Yet he still made an exception—suggesting someone exerted decisive influence upon him, compelling even imperial authority to yield. Through casual inquiries among patrons, I learned this person must be none other than the Crown Prince himself.'

He Yuqing hesitated and said, 'Could it possibly...'

Xin Meili cut in, 'I suspect his surname.'

Though skeptical, He Yuqing recalled how wall-corner man had urged her to collaborate with Zhao Dog Official earlier. At the central gate he'd merely spoken a few words before ordering someone's release against the imperial guards' will—an incident that ended with a violent confrontation. Was all this purely coincidental?

I sensed my secrets were on the verge of being exposed and feared these two women might 'dispose' of me permanently down here in the cellar, so I interrupted their speculation yet again:

'Don't overthink things! Do you really believe I look like an official? If anything, I wish I were Zhao Qian—who, according to rumors, enjoys a life surrounded by beautiful women and immersed in luxury day after day.'

'Stop right there!' both women commanded simultaneously.

Nervously approaching them, I was ordered yet again: 'Confess honestly! Who are you truly? We'll forgive you if you tell us now—but don't expect mercy otherwise.'

He Yuqing added another warning: 'I know your motives for getting close to me deliberately. You won't harm me—this much I'm certain of. But I want the truth from you.'

At this moment, internal conflict surged through my mind. While Xin Meili would likely accept the revelation without hostility since she had no direct opposition in this matter, He Yuqing remained at odds with the Eastern Factory—at least currently. If she discovered I was truly Zhao Qian, accepting such a reality might prove difficult for her, potentially turning our romance into enmity.

Suddenly came three loud knocks against the ceiling followed by shouts from above: 'Second Master! There's an underground chamber down here!'

A gruff voice commanded: 'Dig it up! The Grand Secretary gave strict orders—anyone who lets that female outlaw escape will face execution.'

I was startled, and He Yuqing terrified. After all, she remained essentially a normal girl at heart—especially when emotional dependency had taken root within her. Although this man's identity remained mysterious, one thing was certain: he would never harm her. With a frightened cry, she rushed to my side for comfort.

The temporary alliance shattered instantly as Xin Meili also rushed toward me with an envious expression, declaring, 'I recognize that voice from above—it belongs to Second Master at Pang's estate. From what patrons have told me about his martial prowess, if he finds us we'll be in big trouble.'

Pang Hu had gathered many skilled fighters around him; I knew this well enough—especially since I'd already neutralized several with my laser pistol last night. This 'Second Master' must be a close confidant of Pang Hu himself, meaning his combat abilities would likely surpass even those individuals I had previously encountered. Extra caution was definitely necessary now.

The people outside apparently couldn't find the entrance to the cellar and began digging randomly from different angles with tools they had somehow acquired. As expected, earth started falling from the ceiling. It seemed someone had indeed betrayed our location. If the imperial guards or Eastern Factory officers arrived it wouldn't be too problematic—but if these were men from Pang's estate, we'd be in serious trouble and should avoid direct confrontation at all costs.

I asked Xin Meili about her tunnel: 'Has your hidden passage been completely uncovered yet?'

She understood immediately what I meant by the concealed compartment that had recently caused her such distress. Nodding, she replied, 'We've expanded it a bit further inward but haven't finished yet due to recent business demands at the restaurant. However, hiding three of us should be possible.'

'Good,' I said. 'Let's get inside quickly before they realize this isn't just an ordinary hiding place and continue searching elsewhere.'

This principle had been applied repeatedly over these past few days in Twin Cities—many households indeed maintained secret chambers beneath their homes. Even if such spaces were discovered, they wouldn't constitute definitive evidence of guilt unless actual criminals were found within them. Therefore, as long as we remained undetected, the seafood restaurant should be safe from accusations.

Xin Meili chuckled while adjusting the hidden passage's entrance and simultaneously said to He Yuqing, 'This time I didn't force him; he himself admitted knowing about this secret room. Now you must believe men cannot always be trusted.'

Though I had already confessed my visits earlier, hearing Xin Meili mention it now still caused an awkward sensation. As she opened the concealed passage's entrance and I peered inside, I was surprised to find it only slightly larger than before—just enough for three people to squeeze into.

The first sound of breaking stone came through, so I quickly extinguished the oil lamp while urging, 'Inside now! Inside now! If we wait any longer we'll be discovered!'

Both women squeezed in from either side. He Yuqing deliberately kept her distance from Xin Meili—not because she was particularly angry about my previous intimacy with this woman (after all, our recent situation had forced us into close contact), but rather due to the memories of that night's intimate events which now haunted her as we shared this confined space together.

I backed into the narrow compartment and carefully closed the disguised wall panel behind us. For a moment, everything was silent except for the sounds from above—the silence was so complete it even made our three separate breathing patterns feel unusually distinct.

Very soon I realized my current position wasn't ideal at all since both women were now flanking me within this cramped space. Although necessary due to limited room, such proximity meant one arm was pressed against a full breast while the other leg rubbed against an ample buttock. With two different feminine fragrances surrounding me and soft breathing sounds reaching from either side, it didn't take much imagination for my mind to drift back to that night with Xin Meili—and I had already struggled to maintain self-control then!

'What are you thinking about?' Xin Meili suddenly whispered in my ear.

'I'm not thinking about anything,' I replied quickly. 'Let's just escape first.'

He Yuqing leaned in from the other side and asked, 'Are you thinking of her? That night must have been very pleasant for you, wasn't it?'

I explained hurriedly, 'Yuqing please don't misunderstand! That situation was purely forced—just like today. If we didn't squeeze inside now, all three of us might be killed.'

'Fine,' she said reluctantly, 'I won't hold that night against you—but tell me who you really are! I want the truth!'

Even in this life-or-death scenario, her insistence on my identity never wavered. Women truly were creatures incapable of grasping larger priorities. She continued urging me impatiently: 'Tell me quickly—don't waste time thinking up excuses! Tell me or I won't be responsible for what happens next!'

Suddenly she bit down hard onto my ear—an extremely intimate gesture that would have been unthinkable between ordinary people. Considering how she had already applied suction therapy earlier, this shouldn't really shock me now. Just a small incident in comparison.

'Boom!' The ceiling above gave way with a loud crash as someone leaped into the cellar below. I was about to silence He Yuqing so no sounds would escape when I suddenly forgot our current position and inadvertently lifted my arm—smashing it straight into Xin Meili's chest. She let out a stifled groan from where she lay pressed against me.

'It hurts! My breast is bursting!' she hissed angrily. 'What are you doing?'

Apologizing repeatedly, I lowered my arm quickly. 'I'm sorry! It wasn't intentional—I was just trying to tell you to be quiet because someone came in.'

'You're still talking even though someone has entered!' He Yuqing scolded, her anger flaring as she recalled seeing Xin Meili's attractive figure with half-exposed breasts earlier on the surface. The sight had clearly triggered jealousy within her.

Sweating nervously at this awkward situation, I decided silence was better than further explanation.

'Second Master,' someone called from above. 'There's nothing here either—it appears to be just a normal cellar.'

After surveying briefly with torchlight the man descended once more and reported to his superior:

'Second Master,' he said coldly. 'Tap the walls for any other hidden passages! If we let her slip away again, your heads will be at stake!'

My heart raced as I instinctively reached for my laser pistol—but halfway through the motion, Xin Meili suddenly grabbed my wrist gently on the other side while He Yuqing remained completely unaware of what was happening. Guiding my hand upward slowly, she soon placed it against something soft before leading it past her collar to grasp a large and pliable object—

I continued to caress Jin Meili's chest with one hand while the other sought He Yuxing. Instead of groping her, I pulled her head down toward my abdomen slowly, painstakingly until she crouched beneath me. She seemed to understand my intent—this act had consumed them both that afternoon in a frenzy of stimulation so intense it felt like ascending into heaven.

He Yuxing offered slight resistance but knew well who held the power. Women always surrendered eventually when their desires outweighed their pride. The environment itself heightened her arousal, and with half-reluctant compliance she unzipped my pants before kneeling between my legs, releasing a soft whimper as she found the solace that had already become her addiction.

Jin Meili's arms tightened around me as if one hand wasn't enough to satisfy her. She dragged my head into the valley of her cleavage while guiding my hand beneath her skirt where dampness awaited discovery. The cramped chamber echoed with wet sounds accompanied by three synchronized sighs of pleasure.

Time melted away in the cellar until all was silent except for the sudden crash as the door burst open. Two uninhibited shrieks pierced through the darkness, carrying volumes of passion and depravity beyond words. As I succumbed completely to the moment, He Yuxing gasped for air but maintained her grip with feverish intensity.

When we finally collapsed together on the floor, He Yuxing exhaled first, whispering, "Was I really that crazy?"

Jin Meili smiled, "I nearly fainted watching you. You've got more audacity than me."

He Yuxing ignored her jabs and rested against my arm, asking softly, "What should I do now?"

"Nothing to fear," I replied. "There's no problem the world can't solve. Whatever you need, I'll help achieve it."

She answered with determination, "I want to save people first, rebuild the Dog-Killing Gang, then kill Pang Dog-tyrant and finish my father's unfinished mission."

Now was a man's moment to show his valor. "Agreed," I said grandly. "Though these won't be easy tasks requiring patience."

He Yuxing affirmed resolutely, "I'll wait—wait an entire lifetime if necessary."

Smiling gently, I replied, "No need for such dramatics. If killing that dog-tyrant takes a lifetime, I'd rather smash my head against this wall right now."

Jin Meili rested her head on the other arm and countered, "You can't do that! You promised to take care of me. If you die who will look after me? I know why the Eastern Workshop, Imperial Army and Flying Fish Gang treat me so well."

He Yuxing admitted bluntly, "I never thought you were Zhao Qian today when I cursed you as a dog-official. Does it anger you?"

The moment to reveal my identity had come. Since He Yuxing showed no revulsion about my status, perhaps Jin Meili deserved credit for preparing her mind.

"No," I shook my head, "as long as you don't hate me for the deception."

"You made the right choice," she surprisingly replied, "I would have hidden mine in similar circumstances. Now I believe you're not evil despite our brief acquaintance—there's something familiar about you like we've been old friends across lifetimes. You make me feel safer and happier than ever before as if this moment has long awaited discovery."

"I agree," Jin Meili added, "Sister He Yuxing, what should I call you? Let's stop fighting—we're too connected now."

He Yuxing offered her hand, "Call me He Yuxing. You know he prefers that name. Fight? Don't pretend to have energy for it now."

Jin Meili exhaled dramatically, "My limbs feel like jelly—can barely move another inch. If only this bed could last forever."

Her words stirred emotion in my chest during the most intimate moment yet.

"Yuxing," I began seriously, "you're not really the daughter of our previous leader. You were actually my friend from Earth—the He Yuxing mentioned in my story—having simply lost your memories."

To my surprise she showed no shock but said, "I suspected as much earlier which is why I changed names. Your elaborate protection proves it since few people match so perfectly across worlds. Thank you Zhao Qian—if I ever regain those memories, please let me never forget this chapter—it's essential to my existence."

Smiling warmly, I replied, "If you do recover your Earth memories, you'll find they're equally vital. I cherished our secretary days when you cared for me so perfectly. Now it's time for me to repay the favor."

Jin Meili protested, "You two were already acquainted while treating me like an outsider—unfair!"

He Yuxing laughed suddenly, "Want to be my replacement? Fine—take him and taste his wonders."

Jin Meili chuckled slyly, "I've caught a whiff already—the aroma is strange. Keep your treasure, He Sister. I admire your courage but doubt if I could manage it now at least."

Wiping her lips, she mock-attacked Jin Meili's chest with a finger while threatening, "Dare laugh? Watch me spit my contents on you!"

Cowering in our shared embrace as if vomiting, I finally said to both women, "Enough teasing. Let's leave this damp cellar before catching cold."

Emerging from the dungeon into the seafood restaurant we found it completely emptied—undoubtedly cleared by Pang Family forces. Since Jin Meili had no interest in business tonight anyway, it made for a convenient holiday. Yet I couldn't stay, needing to return home and arrange Xiaohao's rescue first. With He Yuxing now essentially half-mine after accepting her Earth origins, keeping distance from that jealous rival demonstrated proper masculinity—though my dual identity would remain concealed for now.

Jin Meili clung desperately as we prepared to leave.

"Must you really go? Stay tonight instead. After what transpired between us three, my bed is spacious and warm enough."

He Yuxing regained her modesty under the cellar lights but still blushed,

"Don't mention our... encounter again or I won't visit anymore."

Jin Meili sighed dramatically as if mourning,

"Of course. We're not even officially a couple now—who knows if he'll remember me after leaving?"

If circumstances allowed, I'd linger longer. This black rose had awakened sensations unknown in my Earth life. Though no actual relations occurred between us three tonight, Jin Meili's body had already become my canvas while He Yuxing repeated her afternoon's performance. The experience rivaled any physical union.

"Rest well," I finally decided, "I'll visit again. For urgent matters send word to Zhao Mansion."

The streets remained lively with New Year celebrations bearing similarities to Earth's modern traditions—unlike ancient Dragon Kingdom where everyone would have been home for family gatherings by now. He Yuxing walked my arm unhappily, her thoughts elsewhere than the fate of Lang Xiao and others—her unease likely stemmed from impending introductions to my other wives.

Reassuringly I said,

"Yuxing, no need to worry. The women know you well already and we've always maintained good relations. Besides, don't I have your back?"

She halted abruptly with a stern expression,

"Not quite. Earlier you mentioned having 'girlfriends'. Was it her or them? Need to clarify this concept."

Never had I mentioned my harem size directly to He Yuxing, but now she demanded clarification.

"Funny you caught on," I replied uneasily, "they are plural."

She pouted defiantly,

"Exactly! Can't escape the polygamy stigma. Beauty was right—too much jealousy and I'll drive you away. Though promise me no more heartless flings once we're three."

My discomfort deepened with each word.

"Not just three,"

Her eyes widened in alarm.

"Worse than average men? How many then? Four?"

"Still not enough,"

"Five?"

"Seven?"

"More yet..."

"Zhao Qian!" she finally snapped, "Just tell me how many more women you've bedded—even the gentlest will flare up eventually."

I almost broke down in tears,

"A few dozen... plus a little extra..."