Ma Xiaoru hurried toward the inner city under protection of Imperial Guards, what should have been a joyous Lunar New Year's Day was clearly destined to be anything but ordinary. On his first day in court, Ma Xiaoda had caused trouble - not just because of his fiery temperament, but more importantly because Peng Huo had set out deliberately to give the Crown Prince a humiliating introduction to court politics and demonstrate whose faction truly held power. However, Ma Xiaoda would never tolerate such intimidation, making conflict inevitable.

Linglong suggested, "Shouldn't we eliminate Peng Huo altogether? With our current strength, even if we can't defeat him completely, we shouldn't face certain defeat."

I replied, "Not yet - we aren't ready to fight Peng Huo directly. The Horse Department's troops cannot enter the city, so his Imperial Guards still remain as the most powerful force in Twin Cities. We must rush to the East Factory first. Yun Yao, you should return home immediately and warn them all to maintain vigilance. If anything happens, take the spaceship to the Horse Department for shelter."

Yun Yao answered concisely, "Understood, please be careful. I'll leave right away."

Linglong added, "Why not deploy those four spaceships? Who could possibly stand against them?"

I smiled, "Sometimes brute force can't solve everything - you're still too young to understand these political matters."

Maomao had been alerted beforehand. When Linglong and I arrived at the East Factory headquarters, most of our men were already assembled. He reported, "Master, we have 500 enforcers on duty today in the factory. If you need more, I can easily mobilize another 500 from other branches to make a full thousand."

I inspected the courtyard where half of these 500 had been equipped with newly manufactured rifles - simple designs but their iron bullets still packed impressive firepower and accuracy far surpassing traditional archery. The remaining four hundred carried light shields, crossbows and waist swords, while two compact javelin launchers were now deployed. These improved launchers differed significantly from older models: the spearheads had been replaced with one-foot-long iron projectiles offering massive damage potential in smaller, more portable devices made possible by advances in metallurgy technology. Nightly space-ships flights between Horse Department and Lake Yang prefecture enabled rapid transport of these new weapons to outfit our forces.

I told Maomao, "We're simply rescuing someone today, not engaging Peng Huo in total war. Have we sent scouts ahead to monitor the situation? Know your enemy as well as yourself before battle."

Maomao responded, "Yes, they should report back shortly."

When 500 black-cloaked enforcers marched imposingly from East Factory gates, our spies had already returned with news about western city gate - execution guards numbered over a hundred imperial soldiers still had one teapot's time to arrive. Old Minister Liu, an octogenarian with white beard bound in ropes, was escorted along streets where crowds of ordinary citizens cried out for his innocence, clearly indicating he wasn't some villainous minister.

Liu's entire family of 80+ members accompanied him including infants still needing to be breastfed. No one could understand how Peng Huo could bear such cruelty - though the official charge was treason, these helpless children could hardly even walk let alone stage a rebellion!

As Maomao ordered 500 men into running formation toward western gate (a short distance as East Factory was strategically located near where imperial envoys could easily report to emperor's western palace), he still instructed surrounding agents to prepare for desperate rescue if needed.

"Master," Maomao panted, "turning this street connects us directly with main road leading to execution site. By calculations we should arrive before actual sentencing." Fortunately most had participated in 10k obstacle races so only a few struggled with sudden sprint.

I wiped sweat from forehead while thinking - my supernatural ability vanished just as abruptly as it appeared? For something like running surely wasn't worthy of its attention!

"Let's speed up," I urged, "we mustn't fail on Crown Prince's first task or he'll lose motivation entirely."

Maomao rushed ahead. Linglong questioned me curiously, "Master, what happened? Earlier you were so powerful but now can barely keep up with my pace! You were supposed to protect me!"

"I don't know," I admitted, "maybe this ability chooses its moments?"

Linglong fretted, "Then definitely shouldn't let you lead - if it fails when needed most disaster will follow. Let me protect you instead!"

With that, delicate Linglong transformed into fierce little heroine dragging me forward like wind until we reached execution site where chaos already unfolded. Several black-cloaked enforcers guarded white-bearded Liu while 30+ imperial soldiers with spears cornered them.

Imperial Captain shouted, "East Factory people retreat immediately! By royal decree we must execute traitor Minister Liu! Any who defy orders will be considered co-conspirators and punished accordingly!"

Maomao arrived breathless, pushing through crowd to declare, "I'm Second Head of East Factory. We follow Crown Prince's order to rescue Minister Liu - case might have been wrongly judged. We need to bring him into palace for emperor's reexamination!"

"Blasphemy!" Imperial Captain snapped, "Evidence linking Liu with Zhu Shou's faction is solid! Commander Peng has strict orders - no one can release any Liu family member without his personal authorization! Move aside or I'll report this to Commander Peng!"

Maomao cursed, "Peng Huo can't order our imperial guards directly in Twin Cities! Who does he think he is?"

The captain faltered slightly - technically Peng didn't have authority over imperial guards who only took orders from emperor and crown prince. However these commanders secretly followed Peng's instructions behind closed doors...

Just then a gruff voice emerged, "We carry royal decrees now - if you won't move we'll not be polite!" It was Peng Er, the man who led yesterday's seafood house search.

Maomao countered, "We have Crown Prince's direct order. If you don't release him, we also will not be polite!" During their exchange 500 enforcers had already encircled execution site with 100 riflemen forming two lines ready to fire - first line crouched aiming directly at over a hundred imperial soldiers.

Suddenly Peng Er stepped forward, "Respected Second Head, I hope you won't offend Commander Peng over this minor issue. Decree has been issued with no room for reversal. Besides Liu's family deserved punishment! How else will officials learn to remain loyal if we don't execute them?"

Maomao replied, "Peng Er, this is Crown Prince's direct order. Let's just take him into palace and discuss the matter rationally."

Peng Er glanced at sky timing it carefully before declaring, "Absolutely impossible! Execution time has come already. Since East Factory obstructs our way... follow Commander Peng's orders! Execute Liu family immediately!"

"You dare!" Maomao signaled - rifle safeties clicked off as over a dozen barrels pointed directly at Peng Er who had no idea what these devices could do.

Maomao warned, "Peng Er, are you planning to rebel too? Remember East Factory has emperor-granted authority for life-or-death decisions!"

In Peng's mind only Commander Peng mattered. He prepared to strike Maomao, believing that taking hostage would force compliance. But this plan failed - sudden rifle fire erupted from behind Maomao as Peng rolled desperately avoiding iron bullets.

"What weapon is this?" he gasped through pain as bullet speeds defied comprehension.

Maomao smirked, "New rifles made by our Lord Zhao! Disappear in one minute or next time you won't be so lucky!"

Peng, furious and bleeding, decided to complete his mission - killing Liu would ruin Crown Prince's reputation. Desperate imperial officers would fear for their lives, abandoning crown prince to serve Commander Peng.

With no warning Peng lunged again this time targeting the protected Liu. Black-cloaked enforcers with embroidered blades barely blocked him but were pushed aside instantly. As Peng prepared to strike down Liu...

Three consecutive arrows whistled through air from under Liu's cart - first shattered his blade, second forced parrying, third pierced directly through his face!

Metallic clang resounded as second arrow struck blade shield while Peng ducked just in time to avoid third... until he suddenly felt intense burning spread from head to toes. His consciousness blurred briefly before collapsing unconscious.

Linglong emerged from beneath cart teasingly, "Master, I think arrows are more reliable than your so-called 'laser guns' which feel like children's toys."

I countered, "Your three arrows didn't kill him - my single bullet did. Which weapon is superior?"

Ling-Long retorted, "Without my arrows you wouldn't have had the chance!"

Ignoring debate I turned to enforcer and ordered, "Break open the cart and release Minister Liu!"

The elderly Liu was already half-dead from shock. As cart broke open he collapsed but I caught him saying, "Minister Liu, sorry for this scare. Crown Prince is arguing your case against Commander Peng right now - a few old letters shouldn't condemn an entire family to death."

Liu weakly asked, "Who are you?"

Though we had removed our disguises, my low profile kept me unknown. I introduced myself as East Factory First Head Zhao Qian fulfilling Crown Prince's rescue order.

Peng Er's sudden death paralyzed imperial captain who feared Commander Peng's wrath if mission failed. With cold shivers he ordered soldiers to "Capture these lawbreakers! Kill anyone resisting!"

Dozens of imperial soldiers attacked but twin rifle volleys erupted like popping beans - attackers fell while reloading crews immediately took over firing positions in continuous deadly rotation.

Terrified civilians fled while Liu family members huddled together shaking. When all 100+ Peng's loyalists were eliminated, only trembling commander remained.

I ordered Maomao, "Leave some men to manage site and protect Liu's family. We'll take him straight to palace to strengthen Crown Prince's position."

Maomao still shook from recent carnage, muttering dryly, "With these weapons who should we fear? Hundred of us could face thousand imperial soldiers! Master, you're truly a genius!"

I replied, "These primitive rifles are just beginning. Eventually I'll have automatic machine guns that can fire dozens of bullets in seconds... or Metal Storm systems that unleash tons of ammunition instantaneously."

Maomao gaped but wondered, "If this is true should we still respect Commander Peng?"

"Respect remains necessary," I advised, "these advanced weapons take time to develop. Imperial Guards aren't fully under our control - a potential rebellion could make Twin Cities bloodbath. Also court ministers remain divided - let Crown Prince gather support through Liu's case. Governing requires people hearts, not just military strength."

Maomao sighed, "Your vision is deep indeed Master!"

"Enough flattery," I cut in, "let's move quickly."

When we arrived at Wen Cheng Wu De Hall where chaos already reigned (news of execution site massacre hadn't reached yet), eunuchs announced my arrival causing sudden silence.

Prince Ma Xiaoda sat below emperor's throne as second-in-command - no wonder Peng resented him. Originally his was the only dominant faction in court, now this young rival threatened power balance so Peng had to use Liu case for intimidation.

Three factions emerged: Xiang Party supported leniency, Wang Party feared Peng but hesitated, while Peng's faction demanded execution with several ministers threatening resignation if emperor refused.

"Zhao Minister," Emperor Ma Da asked when quiet returned, "what urgent matter brings you here despite your recent illness? I was actually planning to visit soon..."

Prince Ma Xiaoda sat below throne signaling me through subtle gestures - classic drama trope but not unworthy of imitation. I declared:

"Sire, while my health remains poor, as East Factory Head I couldn't ignore news about wrongly convicted Minister Liu. I implore you to reconsider execution due to old evidence and Zhu Shou's unreliable testimony. Please grant him clemency until we thoroughly investigate!"

Emperor sighed, "I also wish not to execute Liu... but decree has been issued! Even Crown Prince protested but probably head is already on ground by now."

"I've personally rescued Minister Liu from execution site," I countered, "please revoke the order and let East Factory reevaluate his case."

Chaos erupted again as Ma Xiaoda family exchanged glances - plans suddenly needing complete redesign.

Peng's scholar stepped forward: "Sire! Not only defying orders but also hijacking executions! Execute Zhao immediately or chaos will ensue!"

Hundreds of ministers knelt shouting, "Severely punish Zhao or court authority collapses!"

Prince Ma Xiaoda stood up sharply, "Who said Zhao violated orders? He followed my direct command to rescue Minister Liu - I clearly stated he wasn't guilty. You forced father into this! If you dare charge me..."

Peng's faction ignored prince and cried out: "Sire! Crown Prince on first day already usurps authority! This is dangerous! Young crown prince doesn't understand politics! He needs to be stripped of power and confined until mature enough!"

They all realized Horse Department and East Factory now supported prince - so they attacked both simultaneously.

Emperor Ma Da, showing his indecisive nature (which allowed Peng's rise), massaged temples before declaring: "I have headache. Let Crown Prince handle this matter fully! Attendants please escort me back."

This was clear endorsement of prince. As filial son, he never wanted to execute father's beloved minister - just forced by threats. Now with son supported and prisoner alive, emperor simply avoided decision-making.

Wang Party ministers realized they must align immediately or be left behind when prince gained Horse/Factory support plus 100k foreign army troops.

Hastily Wang Party declared: "Your Highness! We also believe Liu's crime doesn't merit death! Please pardon and retry!"

Xiang Party and undecided ministers, seeing East Factory could even rescue targeted prisoner from Peng's execution squad while possessing Horse Department power, immediately joined:

"Prince! Decades-old letters can't prove treason! At most a minor oversight charge - certainly not family annihilation!"

Ma Xiaoda's heart swelled with triumph. Who would have thought his brother-in-law could turn the tide so swiftly? The Imperial Stud Office and the Eastern Depot were the most powerful departments in Shuangcheng besides the Royal Guards, yet when their heads stood among the court, a few words immediately forced those fence-sitters to declare allegiance. He must find proper ways to thank this future brother-in-law, though Sixteenth Sister was still too young. If only Fifteenth and Sixteenth could both marry that rascal, those two sisters would surely never compete for his affections.

Ma Xiaoda laughed heartily, "Esteemed ministers, I'll give your suggestions due consideration. How about entrusting Liu Gong's case to the Eastern Depot for retrial?"

"Princeling Ma's wisdom shines!" The court erupted in kneeling bows and praises. Overjoyed, Ma Xiaoda could barely close his mouth. Who knew the first day would yield such a decisive victory? The heavens had eyes—had it not been for encountering this auspicious brother-in-law at Feiyin Mansion, who could say what shape he'd be in now?

"Your Majesty's old minister objects to His Highness' decree!" An elderly scholar over sixty suddenly broke ranks. A loyalist of the Pang faction, age did nothing to deter his allegiance. "Rebellion is a capital crime. Can one release an accused man with mere words? If governance is this corrupt, I shall resign my post and never again concern myself with state affairs."

A chill swept Ma Xiaoda's heart—here came the old Pang tactics. Morning had seen imperial orders issued for Liu Gong's execution, but now with the man rescued, they resorted to ancient strategies. Indeed, as soon as that scholar spoke, over a dozen ministers echoed his words. Ma Xiaoda turned pleading eyes toward his brother-in-law on the dais. Though he longed to expel all Pang loyalists, besides fearing imperial disapproval, his brother-in-law's objections would surely follow.

I glanced at the leading scholar then gave Ma Xiaoda an approving nod. The clever prince immediately grasped my intent—execute the ringleader like shooting a crow to scare off flocks. Otherwise they'd press forward relentlessly until Pang regained initiative.

Straightening his expression, Ma Xiaoda declared: "Scholar Su, since your resolve is set, I'll act on behalf of His Majesty today and grant it. Guard!"

The Royal Guards stationed below were Gu Qi's men, naturally obeying the prince's command instantly. Soldiers approached to remove Su's cap and robes, frightening him into collapse. He scrambled for help from Pang Hu, after all, this betrayal had been Pang's strategy. If Pang didn't save him now...

Pang Hu remained a cold observer. These affairs required no personal intervention—he simply guided subordinates at critical moments. Ma Da's sudden authority shift was unexpected. The swift allegiance of the Stud Office and Eastern Depot also surpassed his calculations. He'd anticipated more time for the prince to neutralize Zhao Jiansheng, yet it turned out the man had secretly pledged to His Highness.

Suddenly the political landscape grew complex. Now he must factor in the Stud Office and Eastern Depot's strength. The young prince behaved recklessly, violating protocol by actually granting a resignation threat. How should this be countered?

Pang Hu signaled another censor with an eye-brow twitch—Scholar Su held lower rank; the prince might dismiss him lightly. Time to test boundaries further with another piece.

The censor understood immediately and knelt, "Your Highness, I must defend Scholar Su. If you persist in your path, Your Highness, I too shall resign!"

Ma Xiaoda cast me a look and saw my nod. Rising angrily: "Granted! Granted again!"

Pang Hu's heart tightened—this prince was no ordinary foe. More sacrifices could follow; these people were expendable with minimal impact on the larger scheme. Coughing to signal his attendants, he instructed them to continue.

Two more Pang loyalists stepped forward requesting resignation. Ma Xiaoda laughed boisterously: "Approved! Approved again! Who else dares? I'll grant all today at once. Rest assured—the Stud Office and Eastern Depot have ample replacements ready. Your leisurely posts can be filled immediately, saving me the bother of reassigning you."

More ministers cried out, "Your Highness, this is too harsh on loyal subjects. How will anyone serve the empire now?"

Ma Xiaoda frowned slightly: "Any more resignations? Good then I—"

The startled ministers hurried to reassure him, "No, no misunderstanding, we're fine!"

With a wave of his hand Ma Xiaoda dismissed them: "If His Majesty grants authority today, don't give me any trouble."

A few ministers flared with anger to step out but Pang Hu's stern glance stopped them. This prince was ruthless and impulsive. If the Stud Office and Eastern Depot truly maintained secret forces for court operations, further sacrifices would be unworthy. Should senior ministers also fall, half Pang's strength would vanish. Time to halt this now.

Pang Hu stepped forward: "Your Highness, your old minister has words."

Ma Xiaoda narrowed his eyes at Pang Hu: "Ah, what wisdom does Master Pang offer?"

"Only recently did rebellion subside," Pang spoke solemnly, "with imperial governance so fragile and Your Highness newly in power. Grand personnel changes should be postponed lest unrest resurface. You would bear the blame!"

"Haha!" Ma Xiaoda sneered, "Rest assured, Master Pang—since I had the audacity to storm a prison, I've long prepared for court turbulence. Test me if you dare! Should anything arise, my head will answer to His Majesty. After all, this is our Ma family's empire! What reason could there be for me not to bear responsibility? Worst case scenario—I sacrifice it entirely! Who would dare utter even one 'no' against me?"

I stepped forward: "Your Highness, if these ministers prefer rural life..."

Ameo burst through the doors leading his factory guards. The soldiers shouldered strange weapons that chilled Pang Hu's blood. Frontline rumors spoke of this man's deadly inventions. These shoulder-mounted weapons surely were another nightmare invention! And the Eastern Depot could act at will within palace walls—outside, who knew if they'd already surrounded? If fighting erupted...Pang would gain nothing.

I ordered Ameo: "Scholar Su and company require rest. See them safely home. Ensure their journeys are smooth, no unnecessary excursions that might harm recovery from Your Highness' generous act."

Ameo bowed: "Of course sir—if others wish to return home, may I assist in bulk?"

Ma Xiaoda grinned: "Let me check—any more resignations? Speak up now! No going back later. At that point even if I wanted leniency, the Eastern Depot might refuse to waste imperial rations!"

Silence reigned. Though Royal Guards were mighty, they could only act during extreme emergencies. The Eastern Depot operated like a secret police force—omnipresent and infamous for its tortures. Offending them meant no escape from scrutiny tomorrow. Pang's influence couldn't provide bodyguards following every minister.

Pang Hu remained silent as the prince ordered removals: "That'll be all. Take them away—they're making me queasy."

Scholar Su resisted, dragged by his fishtail robes screaming for help: "Master Pang! I was loyal to you—don't sacrifice us like this!"

Ma Xiaoda stared at his retreating figure as if speaking to himself: "Strange indeed—he seeks no mercy from me. Does Master Pang's power outweigh mine? Is loyalty to him incompatible with loyalty to me?"

Pang Hu paled, retracting a step forward. Ma Xiaoda continued merrily: "That'll do for today! Court adjourns until tomorrow. Drink freely, visit lovers as you please—business waits till the morrow. It's New Year's first day after all! My first court session was clumsy—forgive my errors!"

The eunuch recorder cried: "Retire!"—a moment he'd long awaited. Now with His Highness assisting imperial affairs, this lifelong attendant could finally bask in his glory.

Pang Hu retracted his foot. From aggressor to supplicant—the transformation wasn't coincidental. The prince's bold declarations proved well-prepared. One misstep and he might fall into the trap.

The sudden Stud Office and Eastern Depot involvement had muddled affairs beyond recognition. Though the Stud Office's 15,000 combat-ready troops were formidable, their secret weapons remained unknown to most. As for the Eastern Depot—its strength was even more mysterious. Emperor himself didn't know its full numbers, nor did Pang. But estimates suggested over three thousand men with equipment rivaling the Stud Office's, and unlike the Stud Office, these forces weren't stationed outside but lurked within city walls, perhaps even in this hall itself!

No decisive confrontation until total certainty—otherwise losses would be unpredictable. Today's failure stemmed from underestimating the "little beauty" facade and neglecting the Stud Office/Depot's growth.

Pang Hu swallowed back his rebukes. Now on defense, more caution was needed. Liu Gong would surely survive today unless he mobilized Royal Guards to attack the inner city—yet Gu Qi's 20,000 rear guards blocked that path. Those men would support Zhao Jiansheng for certain. He must endure this humiliation.

As court dispersed, Pang Hu glared at Ma's seat before passing me with a sneer: "Minister Zhao, your depths of calculation are admirable...I yield to your wisdom."

"Master Pang overestimates," I replied smoothly, "Compared to your venerable experience, my tricks are nothing. We'll surely exchange many more lessons in the future!"

Pang smiled coldly: "Indeed—this is merely beginning! Before final results emerge, none can claim victory yet. Don't mistake my old bones for weakness—I won't concede to any pup."

As he departed, his faction clustered close. Perhaps this New Year break was well-timed—they'd surely strategize together.

Only when the last minister exited did I release a long breath. Behind me came a thud—Ma Xiaoda had fainted at the throne platform! White Shi rushed forward in alarm: "His Highness, be careful!"

"Ah!" Ma Xiaoda groaned dramatically, "That was terrifying! If Pang had resisted head-on, I'd have been clueless!"

He mimicked my mannerisms. I feigned nonchalance: "He dares not—your pressure makes him suspicious precisely because he fears the Stud Office and Depot's strength."

"Thank heavens you're here!" Ma Xiaoda exclaimed, then called out, "Come on out! They've gone far enough!"

The first part addressed me while the second was directed at the throne. Suddenly out emerged Princesses Xiao Wei and Xiao Rui, their heads still damp with sweat despite winter's chill—clearly they'd been holding their breath too.

Xiao Wei fretted: "You two were so reckless! Imagine if Pang had truly gone all-in? Fortunately senior ministers didn't resign or the Emperor would have lost his mind. What nonsense about 'trained replacements'? Where are they?"

Ma Xiaoda chuckled: "Fifteenth Sister, you know my secrets well enough. Those were just words to scare Pang Hu into backing off Liu Gong's execution. If Liu died today, your brother's reputation collapses. Who'll serve him afterward? The same fate as Liu!"

Xiao Wei leaned closer with a smile: "Still...you must know how scared Xiao Rui and I were back there! And the Emperor just handed over power like this? He's too bold—how will he contain things if chaos breaks out?"

"Isn't everything fine?" I shrugged, then added playfully, "But let me wish you a Happy New Year first!"

Xiao Wei knew my nature—things always sorted themselves. She and her sister had tried to force surrender by sleeping together earlier but now... "Don't give me New Year greetings! No red envelopes for me!"

"Everyone gets one!" I countered. "The Stud Office has your investments—we should calculate dividends."

Xiao Rui chimed in: "Exactly! All my saved cash went there—without profits, how can I afford a dowry when marrying?"

Ma Xiaoda fainted again: "Sixteenth Sister, you don't think me so cheap do you? When you marry, I'll lavish you with the most extravagant dowry!"

Xiao Rui beamed: "Really? As future emperor, your word is binding! Don't renege!"

"Of course!" Ma Xiaoda declared. "But...the groom must be my choice."

Xiao Rui glanced at me before hesitating: "No good—if you choose someone I don't like, forget the dowry! I'd rather find a man I love myself!"

"Then give me some hints," Ma Xiaoda insisted. "Like what he looks or his personality?"

Xiao Rui stammered: "Maybe...probably...possibly...something similar to that rascal. My standards aren't too high, right?"

Ma Xiaoda noted her gaze and laughed heartily: "Not at all! No worries now—let's celebrate! Today marks my first court victory!"

The hall was empty now, perfect for conversation without eavesdroppers. I caught Ma Xiaoda's arm: "Wait—we took some risks today. The capital's security is controlled by the Central Capital Guard. If forced into a confrontation with Pang, Eastern Depot reinforcements might arrive too late."

Sinking onto throne steps, we sat while Xiao Wei and Rui stood behind. "You're right," Ma Xiaoda agreed. "But I need an excuse to bring our men in. From today's imperial attitude, he seems willing to delegate authority. Though young, can't let them think me weak. Any ideas?"

I shrugged: "Not sure about 'good plans', but we could propose a new Palace Guard force—distinct from city defenses. Only responsible for royal family protection within the inner city. Recruit top soldiers with solid political loyalty and exceptional skills. Once established, gradually replace Central Capital Guards."

Ma Xiaoda nodded: "Excellent! I'll suggest it to His Majesty now. Tomorrow's court—if they object...we scare them more!"

Rubbing my chest, I asked: "What scare tactics do you have?"

"Use the flying ship!" Ma Xiaoda grinned. "Bring one in for a show of force!"

"No," I replied firmly. "That's our final trump card—only use if absolutely necessary. Let me contact Jiang and Wang factions. With their support, even if Pang objects we can claim it's self-funded security. But this needs speed—either prepare men today or wait until preparations complete before announcing."

"Right!" Ma Xiaoda agreed. "Then no one can sabotage the plan! As you said: 'Speed is crucial in warfare'!"

Xiao Rui suddenly spoke: "I'll go get Linglong. Can't exclude her from dinner—it'd be rude."

Unexpectedly, Xiao Rui had matured a year's worth. I rose joyfully: "Great—thank you Sixteenth Princess!"

Ma Xia

"Of course!" Ma Xiaoda replied for his sister. "No need to thank us—after all we're family. Let's go see Father first. Oh Fifteenth Sister, I sent gifts to your quarters this morning—ask my brother-in-law to accompany you later."

Xiao Rui had already taken several steps but suddenly returned: "Brother, when did you send a gift for Fifteenth Sister? Do I get one too?"

Ma Xiaoda shook his head quickly. "No, no! Wait till you marry—I'll give you something appropriate now would be inappropriate."

Xiao Rui tugged at his sleeve excitedly: "What is it? Tell me already!"

Ma Xiaoda mock-sterned: "Hurry and bring Linglong over—when you're older I'll give it to you naturally!"

Pouting, Xiao Rui left. Xiao Wei puzzled: "Brother, when did you send me a gift too? Why can't you tell Xiao Rui?"

Blushing slightly, Ma Xiaoda replied: "Sent men this morning—I've told them where to deliver it. Remember to ask my brother-in-law with you."

Linglong was clearly surprised at Xiao Rui's concern. The two rushed back together, excitedly approaching. After meeting Ma Da and learning he hadn't inquired about the court proceedings—did he truly have no interest? Was this a trick of his to enjoy leisure while delegating power? How bold! Just how old was Ma Xiaoda anyway? What if he messed up the entire empire?

Xu Chen and Cai Jingjing were summoned by Ma Xiao Da's people. Due to my relationship with Ma Da, he took good care of them as well. These two women had pleasant temperaments and got along very harmoniously with the Ma family. The group of women chattered happily together when suddenly Ma Xiaoru pulled me out of the room without anyone noticing.

"Accompany me to do something," Ma Xiaoru whispered.

"I asked, "What is it? They're all talking inside, plus we'll be having dinner soon. What if His Majesty can't find me and gets angry?"

Ma Xiaoru replied, "Just a moment - we need to check what the Crown Prince gave to Princess Fifteen. Hmph, that biased fellow actually dared to hide things from me. I must see it! If there's something I like, I'll definitely ask Princess Fifteen to give it to me."

I understood immediately - young girls have such curious minds that keeping secrets would only make trouble. Since she wouldn't let this go without me going with her, better sneak a peek now before dinner anyway. As we walked, I said, "These past few days must've exhausted you and your sister with all the palace ceremonies."

Ma Xiaoru groaned, "You have no idea! My older sister hasn't even acknowledged me at night. Brother-in-law, do you remember when we went to suppress bandits? Especially those days when we arrived early in Lake Yang... When can we return to that time? I miss you so much."

I replied with a chuckle, "When you grow up a few more years. But if you really can't bear it, maybe one night I could sneak into the palace to see you."

"Really?" Ma Xiaoru excitedly grabbed my arm. I said, "Of course! To be honest, I miss seeing you too after so long - we were actually angry with you for not waiting for our New Year's greetings in the morning."

Ma Xiaoru protested, "No way! I'm not that petty!"

We chatted as we arrived at Princess Shiwu's quarters. The palace maids there knew Ma Xiaoru well and didn't block us when they saw her coming. So we openly entered Princess Shiwu's hall where nothing appeared out of place. Curious, Ma Xiaoru asked the maid, "Did His Highness the Crown Prince send some things to Princess Shiwu this morning?"

The maid replied, "Yes, Your Highness the Sixteenth Princess. The attendant carried them directly to her chamber and specifically instructed us not to look."

Haha - didn't expect such strict instructions! Ma Xiaoru's curiosity was now at an all-time high. She told the maid, "Everyone leave please. Princess Fifteen asked me to come in here for something. We'll be right out."

As the maids exited, Ma Xiaoru dragged me into Princess Shiwu's chamber. This was my first time entering her private quarters - a familiar feeling made my heart race and I instinctively tightened my grip on Ma Xiaoru's hand.

Sure enough, there were stacks of items covered with red cloth in the room. Without hesitation, Ma Xiaoru yanked the cloth aside to reveal an odd assortment that startled us both.

Ma Xiaoru could handle it, but I stood frozen - my mouth agape for what felt like eternity! The Crown Prince had actually sent a bunch of sex toys to Princess Shiwu! No wonder she insisted on me coming along!

"What... what is this?" Ma Xiaoru suddenly pulled out something round at one end and thick at the other. That wasn't just an imitation, it was practically identical! What madness - why would the Crown Prince send such things for me and Princess Shiwu?

I snatched it away and threw it down. "Forget these things - let's go back."

Ma Xiaoru protested, "No no, I still don't understand how they work! This pillow - what's with the crank?"

She tested it out by cranking a couple times. Probably meant to be placed under one's bottom so when activated, it would push up and down rhythmically. That wasn't just similar but nearly identical to that strange device we saw in Shou... Seems men of all ranks have very comparable tastes.

I urged Ma Xiaoru, "You've seen enough now - let's go eat dinner. You don't understand adult things yet."

But she was thoroughly unimpressed and began rummaging through the pile herself until finding another treasure. "Brother-in-law! What is this?"

Looking down... Oh dear god, it appeared to be a rather primitive style of sexual undergarment - full body with only cutouts at the chest and lower region. Ma Da Ma Da, how should I even begin? You're just a child who knows nothing yet you've gathered such inappropriate things! Just wait until Princess Fifteen sees them... She'll absolutely give you a good spanking!