Xiaorui shook my arm. "What's this mean? Why did the Young Emperor send these to Fifteenth Sister? Do they have some secret?"

I gave Xiaorui a playful thump on the head. "Stop imagining nonsense. These are gifts for both you and Fifthteen Sister."

"Why? Why send all these things?" Xiaorui, who enjoyed her own pleasures but remained naive about amorous objects despite my teachings, was clearly confused.

"To play with," I chuckled, "you can't wear this dress anyway. Let's drop it and go eat."

"Why can't I wear it?" she pouted.

I glanced at Xiaorui's chest and grinned. "Need I explain? Your bosom is too small to make the garment interesting."

"Fine then," she bit my arm, eyes flashing with indignation.

"I'm not saying that!" I protested quickly. "This corset needs a well-rounded figure to work properly through those holes here..."

"So we men can toy with you?" Xiaorui snapped.

I threw the garment onto the floor. "Honestly, I dislike these things. Tell your sister to lock them all away."

Xiaorui's voice softened with concern. "If my breasts never grow as big as hers, will you abandon me?"

"Of course not," I said gently. "I promised to care for you. But you're still too young - we'll talk about this when the time comes."

Xiaorui curled into my embrace. "Then I'll slowly reveal our relationship to the Young Emperor. His Majesty wants him to govern independently, once he makes his move, those ministers can't protest even if they wanted to."

"You're already doing that," I said with a smile.

She pouted against my neck. "Are you objecting? Or afraid your sister will scold you?"

"I'd never mind," I chuckled. "Even if two more princesses appeared, it wouldn't bother me. As for your sister - better keep this from her for now. Otherwise she might really blame me: rabbits don't eat clover near their burrows, but I'm always preying on my own nieces."

Xiaorui teased me playfully. "You'd want more? How greedy! Let me handle Fifteenth Sister's affairs instead - you're not exclusive to her anyway. If she gets jealous, will there be enough room in her heart for all of us?" Her voice turned sultry and childish as she wiggled against my neck with dreamy eyes. The princess had dressed elaborately today like an untouchable deity, yet now hung from my shoulders with the allure of a blooming flower begging to be plucked. She was clearly thinking about intimate matters again - this ravenous little minx who couldn't wait for her fix.

"Outside," I said anxiously, "there are palace maids."

Xiaorui pouted. "They won't dare say anything - I've done this with Fifteenth Sister before. Give me a chance! My body feels unbearable!" She began nibbling my earlobe while pulling at my hand to explore beneath her skirt where the fabric was already damp from arousal.

I eyed the phallic object on display and said, "Use these? They might want to - but only my treasure can enter your bodies."

Xiaorui pushed me onto Ma Xiaowei's bed. With a sultry smile she kissed my cheek slowly. "Dear brother, will you tell me about this... thing between men and women? And how exactly do one use these toys? How did you plan to use them on my sister?" She pulled my hand under her skirt while pressing her damp face against my chest, coaxing out words that would degrade her with each of my touches. Waves of pleasure washed over her as I teased her.

When we emerged from the room, Xiaorui had resumed her regal demeanor though a faint flush still lingered in her cheeks. The palace maids seemed accustomed to such scenes and offered no unusual glances as they respectfully escorted us out of Ma Xiaowei's quarters.

The brief encounter deepened Xiaorui's understanding of amorous matters. When she learned about the massive object that would enter her, she nearly bit me for "abusing" her - though was there really any question of who was being abused? She had developed a curious fascination with my manhood which had previously shown little interest beyond occasional accidental touches through fabric. This time, however, something in her had awakened.

Just as we returned, dinner was served. Though Linglong and Ma Xiaowei shot me questioning glances, they refrained from pressing matters while Da the Emperor was present. It seemed they must have searched for us during our disappearance earlier that day.

Da made no mention of politics at first, appearing like an impartial observer. But when he raised his first cup of wine to toast and asked me to look after the Crown Prince more, I readily agreed without hesitation.

After dinner Da gave us free rein, allowing Ma Xiaowei her chance for private conversation. "Where did you go with Xiaorui this morning?" she demanded when we met later.

"I just saw some of her toys," I replied.

"You're lying," she said sharply as the telltale flush bloomed in Xiaorui's cheeks again. "You two definitely pulled something."

I changed the subject, "Would you like to see what Da sent you?"

"Yes!" Ma Xiaowei clapped excitedly before catching herself. "Why must you accompany me? Are there secrets involved?"

When she saw the items, her reaction rivaled even Xiaorui's. As I explained their function, the princess immediately declared intentions of confronting Da.

I stopped her hand. "The Crown Prince just wants to see us together. Don't let his good intentions go unappreciated."

Ma Xiaowei huffed in frustration. "But he shouldn't neglect state duties for these vulgar things! How can a wise ruler behave this way? He's practically becoming a street thug."

"He might not even realize what he sent," I said reasonably. "Probably just ordered someone to deliver without understanding the content. And besides, wise men need their emotions too - he told me secretly that he's already touched palace maids' chests. When he comes of age, his harem will probably outnumber mine."

Ma Xia9 squeezed my arm reproachfully. "You corrupted him! If people knew these things were in my chambers rumors would spread like wildfire. Take them away and wait until I'm out of the palace to play with them!"

"Deal," I smiled. "Tonight I'll have Yun Yao fly the spaceship back for pickup. With all the political maneuvering coming up, I won't be able to visit you two as often."

Ma Xiaowei lowered her head dejectedly. "I understand - you're helping my brother deal with Minister Pang. Thank you, without you he'd be mercilessly bullied by that old man. Father always ignores everything and it's so worrying..."

"He's my brother-in-law," I said firmly. "How could I ignore him? If someone dares him, they're not just disrespecting him but me too - I can't possibly stand idly by."

A proud expression bloomed in Ma Xiaowei as she leaned closer to whisper, "Xiaorui has been coming back lately, but with the New Year preparations and so many people around palace gossip is dangerous. She asked me again today, but I refused... There wasn't much interesting news to share with you either. Does your treasure feel weak?"

I chuckled at her continued belief in my old ruse about needing verbal stimulation through their stories. "Nope," I said simply. "Want it now?"

She nodded against my chest before suddenly pulling back. "You haven't touched me for a long time... Afraid you'll stop liking me? Linglong has Xiaorui to keep her company - can we delay departure by just a little while? This is my private quarters, don't you want to test how it feels..."

Actually I had already tested it but kept quiet. Still, there was no reason to refuse when offered the chance again. As two of us collapsed onto Xiaorui's recently vacated bed for another round of passionate kissing, she suddenly grabbed my wrist and said, "Not down there today - didn't have time to clean myself properly. Just play with the upper parts instead."

...

The silence over the following days felt oppressive despite lingering New Year festivities. What was Pang Tiger planning? Why had that initial court confrontation on the first day faded into nothingness? Considering his nature and reputation, he wouldn't simply let things rest - yet no further action had been taken. Was this a calm before the storm?

The Horse Stable guards maintained constant readiness while the East Factory forces stood at full alert. The Lake Yang Ironworks operated 24/7, now producing over 500 simple single-shot rifles distributed to elite East Factory operatives as primary defense against potential threats in the Middle or Inner City.

With improved manufacturing techniques, loading and unloading mechanisms gradually evolved until Tiezhen could soon develop dual-fire rifles capable of rapid five-round bursts. With such firepower, one soldier could easily defend against dozens - after all, what opponent with only archery skills could breach defenses from behind cover?

Steel production advancements increased barrel pressure tolerance while powder compositions were refined for greater potency and range. Future developments might even yield rudimentary machine guns.

Cannons no longer needed to rely on spaceship drive shaft casings as substitutes. With my guidance foundry techniques improved significantly, now producing over twenty heavy artillery pieces - though these newer models naturally paled in sturdiness compared to those salvaged from spaceships.

Most of my recent efforts focused on intelligence gathering against Pang's faction while refining weapons and selecting loyal palace guards. If Taosi were here or even Xiaoyudi would be better - they could simply stand before someone to detect their thoughts, ensuring no spies slipped through undetected.

Without such advantages I had to rely purely on rigorous vetting procedures, which naturally consumed enormous time but was necessary for future security.

Because of the danger facing my wives in the Zhao household during my absence, we all relocated to the Horse Stable. Initially it felt novel but soon grew tedious - with no markets or streets nearby, boredom quickly set in among the ladies.

After completing another busy day together, Linglong suggested at dinner: "Sisters, why not go hunting tomorrow? Eight li beyond the Horse Stable is a forest abundant in pheasants and rabbits. We can relax our minds while securing some wild delicacies for better meals."

Yun Yao immediately agreed. "Yes! Now that we have guns it would be nice to take up this sport."

Zhou Ni nodded enthusiastically, "Count me in as well - just a countryside outing. This confinement is so boring!"

Hu Qingqing and Cheng Susu cheered too. "We'll come along then! Why not bring cooking supplies for an outdoor feast? Hunting plus picnic sounds like fun!"

Linglong's proposal was met with unanimous approval. She beamed happily, "Should we invite Xiaorui sisters as well as Chenchen and Jingjing?"

"No," I said quickly, "they'd have to sneak out secretly. With the current uncertain situation, let's avoid unnecessary complications."

Everyone readily agreed. Linglong then said, "I'll go prepare everything for tomorrow morning - enjoy your dinner now."

The chance to spice up our routine with excitement brought everyone's spirits high. That night the ladies eagerly discussed hunting attire and essentials while Cheng Susu and Hu Qingqing, who had never hunted before, were particularly excited about practicing their marksmanship at the firing range beforehand.

Meanwhile in the Horse Stable, activity continued as in Pang's mansion where oil lamps burned bright into the night. After reading a secret letter, Pang Tiger approached his lamp to burn it while calling for key officials and guards from the Imperial Forest Command.

Receiving the summons these men wasted no time arriving. In the private chamber served with tea, they quickly voiced their concerns: "Minister Pang, have you decided on how to counter the Crown Prince's faction? We cannot continue tolerating this injustice!"

Pang Tiger smiled coldly as he said, "I've been holding back precisely while waiting for an opportunity. The reason the Crown Prince dares act so openly is because of Zhao Qian behind him. That once-foolish boy with his lifeboat no longer exists - now he's secretly built considerable strength through pretended friendship. Worse still, he used the Shou Wang rebellion to train ten thousand external troops for imperial service. He must die or our influence will be slowly devoured."

"Absolutely," Industry Minister Qi Yu agreed. "At first I suggested killing him outright. Now with his enhanced power and numerous guards, how can we possibly eliminate him? His death won't come easily."

Finance Minister Wan Licai proposed, "Might he still be persuaded to join us? Perhaps I could talk to him directly since his authority is so great - if he switched sides our strength would increase dramatically."

Pang Tiger shook his head. "Impossible! He was originally a hidden piece of the Crown Prince himself. The moment the Crown Prince took office, this man became the shield thrown forward. Trying to reason with him now would be like trying to reach heaven!"

Zhang Shuren asked, "Then Minister Pang intends to kill him for certain?"

Pang Tiger chuckled darkly. "Of course! If he won't serve us, death is his only option - otherwise he'll become an obstacle in our path. Here's the opportunity: they're planning a hunting trip tomorrow at eighteen li outside the city. With proper ambushes arranged beforehand, we can eliminate them all there."

Judicial Minister Qu Ge warned, "They wouldn't be unprepared for this. Can our forces handle those fire guns from Horse Stable? That weapon has incredible power and rapid accuracy - remember how it killed a hundred imperial guards sent to execute Liu Gong? The Crown Prince suppressed the incident so we haven't been able to do anything."

Pang Tiger replied, "If I've decided to kill him, naturally I wouldn't ignore personnel or weaponry considerations. We cannot use the Imperial Forest Command soldiers here both because of exposure risks and their inability to match his personal guard's skills. It's time for our secret underground forces to act."

Wan Licai paled slightly as he asked, "You mean them?"

"Exactly," Pang Tiger said. "No one in this world knows about their existence - except us of course. With their skills and covert operations, assassinating Zhao Qian should be no problem. Even if the plot fails, no one will suspect our involvement."

A heavy silence fell over those present. These underground forces represented the deepest secret of Pang's faction, a powerful yet unpredictable force whose emergence would bring unknown consequences to both cities. Yet these men had been cultivated for years by Minister Pang - not using them at critical moments would be unthinkable.

Pang Tiger, seeing the hesitation, continued: "This hidden unit was originally formed specifically for assassination missions. Now finally they'll see action! Once that Zhao Qian is dead, Horse Stable and East Factory will be leaderless while we consolidate our power in court. When the old emperor passes and the young one remains naive, we can govern under his name - at which point you may claim whatever position, wealth or concubines you desire."

The ministers' faces lit up with anticipation as they all pledged obedience: "We follow Minister Pang's orders!"

Pang Tiger smiled knowingly. "Good! With our unity nothing will be impossible. That Zhao fellow first concealed the Daoist Master Sui, preventing us from attaining immortality. Then he protected and shielded the Dog Killer gang members without trial or punishment. Now his true intentions are finally revealed - we must not act with mercy in matters of great importance. This principle I'm sure you all understand!"

They then began detailed discussions on operational plans since this battle carried uncertain outcomes. While they held the advantage through their hidden positioning and formidable strength, based on Zhao Qian's past behavior, miracles often emerged from desperate situations - careful planning was essential.

As night descended upon the Horse Stable, a group of figures moved furtively outside when suddenly patrolling sentries appeared to block them:

"What business do you have here? We've been watching you since leaving the city. Choosing only side paths means you surely intend some mischief against the Horse Stable!"

An elderly man said calmly, "I need to speak with your supervisor."

The guards replied, "It's night and our supervisor is already asleep. Discuss this matter tomorrow instead."

The old man frowned. "If you know I've come from the Twin Cities, then you must realize my urgent business justifies this midnight visit. If you delay me further can you afford it? Zhao Qian and I are old friends - here's my letter of introduction. You may refuse entry only after he personally refuses to see me."

The guards hesitated at the seriousness in his tone before sending the letter up to the Horse Stable command post. Soon they received orders directing this group to the supervisor's office.

I had just decided to retire when a visitor bearing Minister Niu Nai's letter suddenly requested an audience. This was my first time meeting with these two elders I'd been meaning to visit, and now that my guard

"His Majesty has every intention of reforming the court, and His Grace the Emperor is also inclined to delegate power. Though young, the Crown Prince is shrewd and quick-witted. With your guidance, I believe success will come easily - my role shall be merely to assist from behind."

Niu Nai shook his head. "Alas, we are but poor advisors. The decisive factor lies with you, Minister Zhao. Across all lands, only you can stand against the formidable Pang Hu. To dismantle his faction, your hand must strike first."

I knew this visit would bring no good news. Though Pang Hu was a thorn in Ma Xiaoda's side, such matters could not be discussed freely with outsiders - even with the two chancellors. They wanted me to kill Pang Hu outright, but I couldn't agree so readily. If word leaked accidentally, that tiger might strike first. Still, a few vague hints would suffice to avoid suspicions of the Crown Prince's weakness.

"This..." Niu Nai sighed, "Minister Zhao is too modest. With your current resources at the Imperial Horse Office and East Factory, confronting Pang Hu directly would be impossible. Let us reconsider later. The Crown Prince still needs time to build experience. We must not rush."

Niu Nai's voice rose with urgency, "We can't wait! You've already made a move on the first of this month. Though the twin cities appear tranquil now, I know Pang Hu better than anyone. His calmness means he's brewing some monstrous scheme. Better we strike first rather than wait for their attack to destroy whatever credibility the Crown Prince has managed to build."

I replied carefully, "Minister Niu, do you truly believe I've already made all arrangements behind the scenes? The situation remains chaotic. Tell me - can you guarantee control over the Imperial Guards? The palace is full of Pang's men. If hostilities erupt, can you swear His Majesty and his family won't be endangered? And how many loyalists have you gathered for the Crown Prince? Removing this entire faction would leave half our government paralyzed. Can you manage that?"

"This..." Niu Nai looked troubled.

"I trust you'll find ways to protect the royal family," I continued, "But we definitely lack sufficient manpower right now. However, time is not on our side. Chancellor Luo has already contacted members of the Wang faction. The Crimson Prince has given his blessing - he's willing to openly support the Crown Prince at critical moments. With your forces, my resources, and the prince himself, what could a few corrupt ministers accomplish?"

"If you believe we can succeed," I said carefully, "then please trust me now. This is not yet the optimal moment. At minimum, I need time to replace the palace guards with loyalists. That was precisely why I requested this audience - so your Highnesses and the Nine Princes' forces will publicly support my reforms in court."

Niu Nai asked eagerly, "I'm curious about your strategy. Would you share it first?"

"I've established a new imperial guard," I explained, "Unlike the traditional Imperial Army which guarded palace quarters absurdly - these men are specially trained for royal protection. From now on, the Imperial Guards will focus solely on fortress security while my new unit handles palace and family protection. This allows me to remove the Middle Capital Guard from inner city defenses. Only when His Majesty's safety is assured can we strike at Pang's faction. Otherwise, even a cornered dog might bite."

Niu Nai nodded thoughtfully, "Indeed wise. You've already solved this problem! So you have plans for eliminating the corruption?"

I shook my head, "This isn't something to joke about. Until these three immediate tasks are handled, any talk is meaningless."

Niu Nai stood up respectfully, "Rest assured Minister Zhao. Knowing you're working behind scenes eases our minds. Regarding your request to establish this new guard unit - we will certainly give full support. By the way..." his voice hesitated slightly.

I chuckled, "Minister Niu isn't trying to bait me with suspense? If I want to know, what else is there?"

"I'll speak plainly," he continued, "Chancellor Luo mentioned something on return from the Crimson Prince - the Brave Prince wishes to propose marriage."

"Intriguing," I replied, "What's unusual about this? Does it matter if I'm aware or not?"

"But..." Niu Nai leaned closer, "The Brave Prince wants to marry the fifteenth princess as his bride..."

I interrupted sharply, "Minister Niu, are you hearing correctly? You're suggesting a prince of the royal bloodline wants to marry this girl's cousin? The fifteenth princess specifically?"

Niu Nai nodded solemnly, "That is precisely what I said. And not just any proposal - she famously forged an imperial decree to mobilize troops for your rescue."

I nearly overturned the table in shock as Linglong and Yun Yao rushed forward. I bellowed, "The whole clan must be out of their minds! If they dare lay a finger on Ma Xiaowei, I'll personally kill them all!"

Niu Nai tried to soothe me, "Minister Zhao, there's no need for such rage. First, the Brave Prince hasn't formally approached His Majesty yet - Luo only overheard this from the Crimson Prince. Second, we don't know if the Emperor would approve. But given your services to the Crown Prince, your proposal would certainly succeed. I mention this now so you can prepare appropriately."

I bowed respectfully, "Thank you for your warning Minister Niu. However, I already have a wife. Would proposing again violate our court's rituals? Though I care little personally, I fear both the princess and His Majesty might object."

Niu Nai nodded sagely, "You're thinking wisely. While we can assist, ultimately it depends on royal will. Though no precedent exists in our twin kingdoms for such unions between cousins, if you clear out the corruption first, I doubt His Majesty would refuse this minor matter."

Still pushing me toward killing Pang Hu he thought - yet unaware that Ma Xiaoda had already dubbed me his brother-in-law. What a disaster if this Brave Prince actually got approved...

"Minister Niu," I said carefully, "as I've explained, we must proceed step by step. Rushing leads to nothing but trouble. You should return and replace the inner city guards first. Until His Majesty feels secure, he'll never approve any reckless action from our Crown Prince."

Niu Nai nodded solemnly, "Understood. If there's nothing else, I shall take my leave."

As attendants escorted Niu away, Linglong muttered disdainfully, "That Brave Prince is truly a degenerate. After coveting Crystal Sister, now he wants to steal Lady Xiaowei? Perfect match for our master indeed!"

Yun Yao added dryly, "History has shown such villains never end well. Just wait and see."

I hesitated anxiously, "You're not angry?"

Both women scoffed simultaneously, "Of course we are! But more importantly, Xiaowei belongs to us!"

"I suggest..." I pleaded, "We keep this between ourselves for now?"

The two exchanged glances and smiled mischievously, "Fine... but only if you agree to our terms. No benefit? Then forget it."

I grinned wickedly, "Tonight I'll personally entertain both of you. Whatever games you want..."

They laughed, "Dream on! You're hunting tomorrow - catch a rabbit for each of us!"

How easy it would be to secure another wife...

The forest was impossibly dense with thorny underbrush making netting impossible. Gunfire would kill them outright when live specimens were needed.

With fifty soldiers each from Man Fu and Gu Fei providing perimeter security, plus two hundred horsemen outside the woods, safety precautions were thorough. No one knew we were hunting - ambushes were unlikely.

I'd already shot a few pheasants to fake success but both Zhou Ni and Yun Yao had discovered my ruse.

"Sir," Man Fu advised, "Rabbits can be captured more easily with snares placed directly at their burrows."

"Excellent!" I exclaimed, "Then quickly - before we starve by midday!"

Man Fu cautioned quietly, "Need to move carefully or they'll vanish. Let's go alone without the soldiers."

After briefing Gu Fei about perimeter security, Man Fu led me deep into the woods where he found three interconnected warrens.

"Stay here," he said, "I'll gather some firewood to smoke them out."

While waiting, I lay on the ground watching insects hum in the twilight. Tomorrow would bring my first hundred elite palace guards...

The earth began rumbling beneath me. Something was moving - not from above or sides but directly upward!

As I dodged left, a grotesque black creature erupted through the soil with terrifying speed! It slammed into a massive tree trunk and somehow bored straight through it like some mechanical drill.

I leaped up just in time as another hole appeared directly below me. My superhuman reflexes kicked in at last moment - this was no ordinary rabbit!

The ancient tree collapsed under its own weight, crushing both of us beneath the rubble. As I fought to free myself from the debris, I realized my opponent wasn't a beast but some kind of cyborg drone with spinning drill bits embedded in its head.

Strange whispers filled the air as more mechanical creatures began emerging like spring mushrooms - each one determined to bore into me!

Retreating was clearly wiser than playing martyr...

For more novels, visit storyread.net.