I returned to Shuangcheng early solely for a meeting with Gu Qi. The most pressing issue was the bandits in the outer mountains surrounding Shuangcheng. Due to strict oversight by the Imperial Army, they hadn't attempted any further provocations. Under Gu Qi's command, all club-wielding soldiers had been reconfigured into pike units. The fifteen thousand imperial troops dispersed across various garrisons who'd participated in clearing out bandits near Lake Yang played a pivotal role. This prompted Gu Qi to greatly elevate their status - consolidating authority swiftly and leveraging their leadership capabilities far beyond ordinary imperial forces.

Intelligence from the Eastern Factory indicated too many individuals had accessed the maps, including both Chief Ministers themselves not to mention countless military personnel. This complication made investigations difficult despite thorough background checks by the factory which still failed to identify suspects. Why then did bandits persistently target Shuangcheng? Was it merely to tie down Shuangcheng's forces and prevent Southland troops from advancing further?

Strategically, sacrificing ten thousand men for temporary delay offered no tangible benefit. The imperial guards were strictly internal defense forces - they couldn't afford full-scale mobilizations. Perhaps these bandits were merely biding time? Their border reinforcements could be deliberately diverting rescue forces to coordinate with this operation.

Regardless of motivations, the situation wouldn't resolve itself in near future. We'd need to patiently wait or cleverly provoke their next move. While enduring criticisms from others about this stalemate, at least the bandits remained hidden in mountains with no recent attacks on Shuangcheng - maintaining uneasy peace for now.

Back at Zhao family estate, my numerous wives provided comfort except for Ou Yang Qing who remained a lingering concern. With prior arrangements already in place, I spent an uneventful night and proceeded to court the next morning. As customary, Emperor Mada first commended me for reclaiming six counties from bandits - a feat few could achieve with minimal casualties. Had Zhang Guan continued commanding those two divisions, their forces would've been depleted by now.

I observed Mada's expression carefully. While his face beamed with approval, imperial subtleties prevented detection of true thoughts. Even at peak trust periods, he'd never revealed inner workings - particularly regarding Peng Taishi. He always deflected discussions about the Grand Secretary like avoiding a hot coal. On surface, Emperor Mada perpetually maintained cold rationality.

After routine affairs were concluded without others interjecting, I approached and respectfully stated: "Your Majesty, as my health has deteriorated lately I wish to resign control of the Horse Supervision Office and Eastern Factory. Your approval is requested."

This decision was finalized before returning to Shuangcheng. Despite Ma Xiaoda and Ma Xiaowei's objections, all wives supported disengagement from power structures. High positions inevitably invite scheming - as evidenced by He Yuqing's attempted assassination and Ximen Yan's mysterious hit-and-run. By relinquishing these powers now, it would both prepare my eventual departure while preemptively neutralizing Emperor Mada's suspicions.

"What!" Mada exclaimed in surprise. "Zhang Aqin, what prompted this? Are you worried about my trustworthiness? The Eastern Factory and Horse Office were founded under your leadership. You alone can manage them! I refuse!"

I calmly replied: "Your Majesty should understand without needing explanation from me. As a foreigner here merely fulfilling reunion duties in Shuangcheng for this extended period, my friends gradually reunite. Upon locating the final missing person, our departure becomes inevitable. This preemptive transition is prudent preparation."

Mada knew only one of seven portraits remained unfilled. Calculating time limits, he recognized necessity to part ways soon though my actions caused him regret about previous expectations.

"Zhang Aqin," Mada inquired softly, "have you heard rumors prompting this avoidance?"

Having resolved this matter beforehand, I directly responded: "Yes Majesty, excessive power inevitably breeds suspicion throughout millennia of civilization. Although I hold no significant authority, your patronage elevated my status beyond what some would tolerate - fabricating scandals becomes inevitable. However, this isn't merely about avoiding suspicion but also ensuring Prince Ma Da can demonstrate leadership capabilities. Otherwise post-departure administrative chaos will arise. By allowing new officials to gradually assume roles with me remaining as consultant, Prince Ma gains trust and future court stability is secured."

My candidness embarrassed Mada yet openness was preferable to behind-the-scenes gossip. Ma Xiaoda anxiously anticipated Peng Taishi's hasty succession proposal which would weaken his position. Quickly turning to emperor he stated: "Father, I concur with Lord Zhang's decision. No matter how we retain him, eventual return home is inevitable. His homeland far surpasses our world in advancement levels by orders of magnitude. Any slander against Lord Zhang should be silenced immediately since these offices directly report to Your Majesty personally - personnel appointments cannot be determined arbitrarily."

Ma Xiaoda glanced sharply at Peng Taishi who paled visibly. The Grand Secretary had already prepared candidates for this power grab opportunity, but now couldn't voice objections without appearing like usurper intent on sudden retirement.

Mada nodded: "Since Lord Zhang's departure is inevitable I can't dissuade you further. However these offices hold critical importance to me - finding suitable succession proves challenging."

Ma Xiaoda added: "Father, Lord Zhang isn't leaving immediately and will still guide my governance until completing his master's reunification mission. By then court affairs should stabilize with border conflicts resolved."

Mada smiled appreciatively: "That would be ideal. Otherwise I've felt guilty about mistreating you despite others' criticisms - you remain my most trusted confidant!"

Ma Xiaoda continued: "Father, both my fifteenth sister and I share this sentiment. Throughout our greatest difficulties, which civil servant actually resolved problems meaningfully? They only offer post-hoc blame games and sly intrigues..."

Mada silenced him with a hand gesture but allowed further elaboration.

"Father," Ma Xiaoda requested, "since Lord Zhang resigns I wish to propose suitable successors."

Peng Taishi immediately interjected: "Your Majesty, old minister also wishes to recommend candidates for these critical posts."

Ma Xiaoda countered: "Grand Secretary, what successful appointments have your recommendations produced? Far from resolving border conflicts you proposed so-called aristocratic generals who died instantly outside West City. Even recently appointed border commander similarly fabricated victories before being trampled by rebel horses! Which of your court officials ever achieved anything meaningful?"

The chamber erupted in chaos as Peng faction members immediately defended themselves while Mada's face darkened with growing anger. Ma Xiaoda kicked over his table which rolled across dais to the ministers' feet, instantly silencing everyone.

He pointed at gathered officials: "Anyone still arguing will be dragged out and publicly flogged!"

Turning to Peng faction he challenged: "Do you believe my words are baseless? Feel free to debate in martial or scholarly contests. If any of your recommended candidates can surpass Lord Zhang's selected successors, I'll personally serve them for an entire year as tea boy!"

With Mada silently watching, tension mounted until Ma Xiaoda demanded a specific challenge: "You," he pointed at leading warrior, "step forward! You're renowned as Shuangcheng's mightiest warrior. My personal attendant will face you. Win and become Horse Office general; lose means relinquishing your title."

The warrior subtly glanced at Peng Taishi who nodded after observing imperial inaction - the battle lines were drawn.

After summoning his bodyguard, Ma Xiaoda let the warrior choose terms: "Your preference?"

"Arm-wrestling," declared the challenger. "No need for excessive violence. One round to determine superiority."

The bodyguard smiled internally - this was ideal since his strength far surpassed typical literary skills.

Though bulky, the official couldn't match Ma Xiaoda's bodyguard in raw power despite initial intimidation factor. As they gripped hands and pushed, the warrior gradually faltered while the attendant relaxed more easily. The outcome was inevitable as the challenger collapsed under sudden pressure, crushing even the sturdy table beneath them.

Ma Xiaoda crowed triumphantly: "All have witnessed this! My attendant surpasses your official's brute strength - title must be revoked! For poetry contests I'll choose another attendant. Sixth Brother, ask who wants to debate literature."

Among my acquaintances, Lao Liu of Flying Fish Gang exhibited poetic talent though remaining obscure among commoners - perfect as literary bodyguard.

Even without prompting, Peng Taishi anticipated a literary challenge since his faction held more scholars. If they lost again, both offices would remain out of reach despite desperate efforts to win.

Peng signaled and an aged scholar stepped forward while Lao Liu eagerly accepted the opportunity to finally test against cultured opponents rather than commoners.

I couldn't follow their poetic exchanges - cultural differences prevented understanding which was actually beneficial since uncontrollable laughter could result from appreciating Earth's literary traditions too much. Mutual indifference seemed safest approach.

Observing the sweating scholar, I realized Peng's defeat was inevitable. Indeed, Peng Taishi coughed to interject: "Your Majesty, effectiveness of officials isn't solely measured by martial or scholarly aptitude but also experience and insight. Old minister urges caution in selecting Eastern Factory and Horse Office personnel - one must avoid both power consolidation and external influence."

Ma Xiao da coldly retorted: "Grand Secretary, what you mean? Court appointments should follow meritocracy principles. Do you propose wooden statues for these posts? Your own stone lions at gate have plenty experience - perhaps they're suitable candidates?"

Peng Taishi faltered. As veteran official facing a child prince, excessive confrontation would invite criticism about impropriety. Now realizing imperial forces were gradually losing influence to Prince Ma's faction, Peng had too many considerations.

Ma Xiaoda then turned to emperor: "Father, I recommend Eastern Factory deputies Mao and Gou for promotions. Their diligent service is widely recognized with no need for training. For Horse Office generals San and Si - already proven within administrative ranks - they'll better understand commoner needs being from grassroots backgrounds. Though promoted by Lord Zhang, their origins in Shuangcheng prove loyalty. To deny such talents would surely invite ridicule."

Peng Taishi's face paled as he realized this succession was meaningless since these four were Lord Zhang's personal enforcers. Control remained unchanged.

"Your Majesty," Peng began...

Ma Xiaoda interrupted: "What now, Grand Secretary? Want another challenge? Summon Lin Gu!"

This prearranged plan included Ma Xiaoda's fabricated cosmology theories which actually confused most listeners - though emperor seemed somewhat approving of his son's boldness rather than his own indecisiveness.

Peng Taishi hadn't expected actual challenges. Speaking over others risked violating court protocols in today's three-faction balance where both Eastern Factory and Horse Office were watching closely.

Lin Gu's arrival silenced everyone with his erudite presence. While Peng tried using his surrendered status as leverage, the old general easily refuted all accusations with logical arguments proving him far more formidable than anticipated.

Mada had previously heard of Lin Gu but hadn't witnessed his abilities firsthand until now - greatly impressed by his articulate debate with ministers. This was precisely what Shuangcheng needed: a capable subordinate gifted by his daughter Ma Xiaowei who evidently inherited her father's discernment.

Before further delays, Ma Xiaoda stopped ongoing discussions: "Father, this Lin Gu was personally recruited by my fifteenth sister whose administrative abilities are already recognized and praised. I'll vouch for him alongside fifteenth sister - his loyalty to the throne remains unwavering."

Peng Taishi realized situation had spiraled beyond control as debate shifted toward granting Lin Gu official rank.

"Your Majesty," he protested, "Lin Gu's allegiance requires careful evaluation! Given Zhu Shou's lingering influence we cannot trust former rebels so quickly!"

Mada countered: "Too much caution. With western territories needing experienced leaders and his proven scholarship from Lake Yang, why not send him for field training?"

Peng objected: "Western Region is Zhu Shou's home territory - placing surrendered general there risks..."

"Then Southern Territory needs officers," Mada decided, "appoint him to Feilong Prefecture immediately!"

Ma Xiaoda prevented further interruptions: "Father, since no objections exist about Horse Office and Eastern Factory appointments I'll proceed with personnel changes. As Lord Zhang advised, this will test my administrative capabilities. With daily imperial burdens you should retire early."

Mada eagerly accepted this escape route while below, dissent continued.

"Your Majesty," someone objected, "Shuangcheng's crisis remains unresolved! These offices must continue eliminating hidden bandits in surrounding mountains or people will question Your Majesty's decisions!"

For Mada who relied most on Lord Zhang for these matters, Ma Xiaoda had already prepared response: "Father, I'm willing to assist the Imperial Army directly in operations."

Mada was increasingly satisfied with son's capabilities - this twelve-year-old demonstrating decisive leadership boded well for future reigns.

"Excellent," Mada approved. "This internal threat must be eliminated before engaging Wuma Kingdom. You should consult Lord Zhang about any unclear issues."

Ma Xiaoda smiled: "Of course, he's my teacher and there's much I need to learn. Besides, he can't depart now anyway - we're family after all!"

Though freed from official duties, teaching responsibilities would remain manageable given improved Shuangcheng language skills. However long-term guidance for imperial forces remained necessary to counter Peng Taishi's inevitable attacks against these new appointments.

Peng Taishi scowled as he recognized this was all premeditated by opponents. Even clever strategies seemed futile since his subordinates were clearly inferior - this battle was lost definitively. Horse Office and Eastern Factory were now beyond reach for foreseeable future.

"Your Majesty, the bandits outside the city have yet to be quelled. An old minister must confess his doubts about General Gu's capabilities. We cannot endlessly replace commanders like this - our Imperial Army and court resources can't sustain such turmoil. Perhaps I should personally oversee this matter now that I've devised strategies after nights of sleepless contemplation. The Crown Prince is too young, and having just returned from the western campaign would risk overburdening him."

Pang Hu's mind was sharp enough to calculate his options - leading a expedition would secure his control over the Imperial Army even if he didn't relinquish command afterward.

Ma Xiaoda didn't allow Ma Da time to respond before declaring: "Father, though I am young, I have learned from Master Zhao about Gan Luo who became prime minister at twelve. As your son raised in royal teachings, it's my duty to ease the court's burdens. Though exiled to the southlands, I've studied every detail of this bandit crisis. Bring forth the map!"

Two eunuchs immediately unfurled a large-scale map across the dais. Ma Xiaoda recited his analysis: "Didn't you wonder how uncivilized bandits could draw such precise topographical charts? Someone must have leaked court maps! Let my presence compel this spy to confess, or face annihilation. Chancellor Pang, I know your loyalty but royal matters should be handled by royal blood. At your age would Father really risk you leading an army and invite mockery from officials?"

Ma Da nodded sagely: "Indeed the situation was more complex than it seemed. The heavily guarded route from Wanmar to Shuangcheng wouldn't have been navigated without detailed maps - only you noticed this crucial detail. Chancellor Pang, while I appreciate your concern for the bandit issue, shouldn't this matter be entrusted to my heir? What do you say?"

Pang's mind raced but he forced a bow: "Your Majesty is right. If the Crown Prince has already formulated plans, an old minister would gladly observe."

Ma Xiaoda's bold accusations were actually last night's discussions with Gu Qi - revealing his suspicion of spies might push them to act, creating unexpected opportunities.

"Is there anything else?" Ma Da dismissed court.

A senior official suddenly collapsed: "Your Majesty! I have urgent news!"

"Speak," Ma Da commanded.

"The fifteenth princess is... cohabiting with Master Zhao!" the old minister cried. "For royal dignity's sake, please investigate and punish this scandal!"

Ma Da turned pale: "Outrageous! How dare you bring street gossip here? Are you senile?"

Ma Xiaoda added: "Indeed - some villains have concocted this to discredit Master Zhao after his two successful campaigns against Wanmar. Without him, both Wanmar and the Jin Kingdom could rise in rebellion."

Though Ma Da suspected the truth might be grim, royal face demanded denial: "Any further discussion on this matter will be severely punished!"

The old minister persisted: "Your Majesty! Though I don't believe the fifteenth princess would behave so shamelessly - she's our kingdom's moral exemplar - rumors are spreading that she's worse than a courtesan. We must clear her name to restore royal honor or face eternal disgrace among virtuous women!"

Ma Da gasped, having heard only fragments through Dan Shi initially. Now hearing this direct accusation, he turned toward the waiting Dan Shi.

"Your Majesty!" Dan Shi fell prostrate. "I beg you to believe in my integrity! I was betrothed by your own decree and know such rumors are baseless. Some villains have slandered her!"

Ma Da knew Dan Shi's sudden outburst implied deniability - if the fifteenth princess were truly... involved, there'd be no hiding it forever. Would confronting this issue destroy royal prestige or ruin Zhao Jianshi's future?

"Father," Ma Xiaoda interjected, "why not simply question my elder sister? She and Master Zhao often discuss military affairs together..."

The emperor suddenly found himself nodding at his son's logic.

"Announce the fifteenth princess!"

Princess Ma Xiaowei entered in resplendent ceremonial regalia - a living embodiment of royal dignity. Her presence immediately quieted many doubting officials' suspicions, for what woman so refined could possibly be as scandalous as rumored?

"I greet Your Majesty," she bowed.

Rising, Ma Da struggled to address the issue before his daughter and court: "..."

"Your Majesty," Ma Xiaoda took over, "please ask her directly about these rumors."

Xiaowei's face paled: "How could you accuse me like this? I know being a woman of action invites misunderstanding, but don't you trust me?"

Inside smiling at her reaction while feigning concern: "Of course we do. But the court must have answers..."

The emperor admired his son's shrewdness - for the first time he felt complete confidence in his heir.

Xiaowei then turned to face me directly: "Since Master Zhao is here, let us address all questions openly!"

Silence fell as officials hesitantly probed. Could these two truly be untouched by scandal?

"Princess," one dared ask, "we're skeptical but the rumors were specific... nothing between you?"

A wry smile crept across her face: "Must I wear a veil whenever discussing military strategies? Should I sip tea behind curtains when rewarding your generals? The court lacks capable men - I must serve my father's interests. Now you mock me, but next battle you'll all be on the front lines with General Zhang!"

Her voice was calm yet seething beneath. Mentioning Zhang Guan both praised his bravery and subtly warned officials to reconsider their cowardice.

Ma Xiaoda continued: "Ignorant fools distort your service for the court! How could educated men follow baseless rumors?"

Flushing faces among officials - but Dan Shi saw opportunity in chaos:

"Master Zhao," he said, "what do you say about these accusations?"

I shrugged: "Whatever Your Majesty decides."

"Disgraceful!" another old minister roared. "You care nothing as long as your name stays pristine! A man should have known better than to consort with a princess - you're a shameless pervert!"

CRACK CRACK. Two resounding slaps sent the old official rolling in blood. I kicked him again before warning: "If you doubt my claim, you'll never see tomorrow's sun."

Chaos erupted as palace guards hesitated between duty and my evident might.

"Your Majesty!" Dan Shi screamed as he raised his sword against me.

I crushed a massive column with one fist then stripped all weapons from the crowd before flinging them out of the hall: "If I must marry Princess Xiaowei, who dares question it?!"

Ma Da's eyes widened in shock. This was way beyond protocol - but my actions had already demonstrated superiority no human could match.

"Master Zhao!" Ma Da intervened. "Calm down and let us discuss this rationally..."

I surveyed the terrified officials: "This old minister will now formally propose marriage to Princess Xiaowei! If anyone objects, I'm ready for more!"

Xiaowei's eyes sparkled as she stared at me - no longer a princess but a woman in love.

"Filthy pervert!" Dan Shi raged. "She was betrothed to ME!"

I flew to him and delivered a knockout punch: "You don't belong here! What you want is already mine!"

Ma Da finally spoke: "Sire Zhao, what's the meaning of this?!"

"I was forced to act when they attacked," I replied calmly. "But if it means marrying her publicly... so be it."

The emperor sighed: "I apologize for those who overstepped. Let us resolve this peacefully..."

"Apologize!" I demanded from the fallen minister. "Speak respectfully about me and Princess Xiaowei!"

The old man sputtered blood while cursing - no sign of repentance.

Ma Da ordered his removal: "Take him away! He's clearly lost his mind."

Dan Shi begged for mercy but Ma Da now showed uncharacteristic resolve: "Revoked your rank, Dan Shi. No more talk about this or face worse!"

The emperor's transformation from meek ruler to decisive sovereign startled everyone - especially Pang Hu who suddenly realized this Sire Zhao could dismantle any coup attempt.

"Father," Xiaowei finally spoke up, "if I must prove my purity through examination..."

Ma Da exchanged glances with his son. This was a dangerous path but her courage gave him hope.

The Emperor was at a loss, unable to refuse the examination. Since the decree required the princess herself to request it first, this must be someone's malicious rumor. Earlier when Zhao Zhanshi suddenly proposed marriage in an impulsive outburst, there had been no prior intimate relationship between them. "Very well," the Emperor declared solemnly, "I shall permit it. Summon the palace midwife immediately - either verify with vermilion paste or conduct a physical examination."

Minister Pang knelt urgently: "Your Majesty, I humbly suggest verifying her maidenhead directly. From what I know, vermilion verification is highly unreliable and cannot be fully trusted."

The Emperor nodded: "Your counsel is wise. However, given the princess's royal status, she should return to the inner palace for examination. In addition, Minister Pang," he added pointedly, "I hereby commission you to select several female court officials whose integrity is universally recognized by the ministers to accompany and supervise the inspection."

Minister Pang bowed with a gleam in his eyes: "Your servant shall obey your decree."

Mao Xiaowei flashed me an understanding smile before departing. I wasn't surprised - the outcome was always predictable. Still, having my wife's body scrutinized by these gossipy women felt unpleasant. But refusing inspection would only fuel further rumors about her purity. Perhaps I could consider this like enduring a public bathroom encounter...

The court fell into awkward silence as everyone waited within the hall. Fortunately, not long after, the palace midwife returned with results: "Your Majesty, according to my examination, the fifteenth princess has never been touched - she is absolutely pure. The noble ladies present can confirm this."

Minister Pang's face darkened instantly. The rumors had proven false, yet they were so vividly detailed even mentioning their supposed flute-playing in her training chamber. Now it was clear: someone with ulterior motives had fabricated these stories to deceive the naive ministers. Consequences followed - Chancellor Zhang was put on indefinite leave, General Dan who'd been scheming for power lost his position entirely, and suddenly rival factions revealed hidden martial arts abilities that would permanently cripple court politics.

The Emperor felt immense relief. Fortunately he hadn't confronted Zhao Zhanshi directly; otherwise his dignity as an emperor would be severely compromised. He had relied on Zhao's loyalty too many times without ever doubting him until now - he must find a way to make amends.

"Beloved ministers," the Emperor said solemnly, "I was certain of this outcome from the beginning. I merely wanted you all to have proof. Now our royal dignity remains intact, yet these rumors were deliberately crafted by villains seeking to sow discord among loyal subjects. The primary agitators have already been punished severely." He paused, his voice softening with regret. "Yet Zhao Zhanshi has suffered deep psychological wounds through this ordeal, and I feel truly ashamed."

I almost felt guilty about becoming the princess's stepfather-in-law so conveniently. At first my hesitation had saved her purity unexpectedly - raising a daughter must have been hard for Emperor Ma. And yet here I was, having supposedly "experienced" both princesses... The guilt should be mine alone.

"I am the one who owes an apology to Your Majesty," Zhao Zhanshi said humbly. "My earlier outburst was improper. For repairing this hall and my recent disrespectful conduct toward fellow ministers, please punish me however you see fit."

The Emperor waved a dismissive hand: "I believe none of you hold resentments against him. This was purely fueled by rumors. By not punishing the rumor-mongers I've already shown my mercy. As for the repairs - your many contributions to the court far outweigh this debt. Even ten death penalties could be forgiven, let alone this instance where someone else's schemes were at play."

The ministers' applause was half-hearted and forced, though the factional supporters showed genuine joy as their rivals suffered losses.

"Father," Crown Prince Ma Xida interjected suddenly, "I now understand why Zhao Zhanshi chose to step down. People can be so cruel - I fear many here still doubt your sister's purity despite such clear evidence. He must have grown tired of this endless political game, weary of these hypocritical faces that claim loyalty yet act selfishly."

Some ministers blushed with embarrassment at his words, realizing their own suspicions about royal conspiracies had been exposed.

The Emperor scanned the court solemnly, acknowledging his son's wisdom. He indeed had wounded Zhao Zhanshi deeply and should have trusted his loyal general from the start rather than allowing these vipers to plot against him. Now that truth was revealed, who would lead the armies when Jin and Wanma attacked?

A plan began to form in the emperor's mind...

I knelt suddenly as ministers behind me followed suit, one of them already crying out: "Your Majesty! This is most improper - we cannot wed a princess to an already-married man!"

The Emperor silenced him with an imperious sweep of his sleeve. "This matter has been decided finally," he declared firmly. "Regarding the wedding date, Zhao Zhanshi may choose at his leisure before informing me."

Ma Xida trailed behind, whispering: "Father, you looked truly imperial just now - I'm so proud."

The Emperor grumbled: "Don't be cheeky. You promised to help suppress those bandits outside the city wall - if that fails, we'll see how you explain it!"

"Father," Ma Xida laughed, "with my brother-in-law's power right here, what could possibly go wrong? You saw his strength yesterday when he cleaved a war chariot in two with a single strike..."

The sun felt unexpectedly bright as I stepped into the fresh air outside the hall. Linglong and Yun Yao waited at the entrance with amused smiles.

"Master," Linglong asked cheerfully, "was everything arranged smoothly?"

I recounted the entire ordeal without omitting my impulsive marriage proposal to Ma Xiaowei. The political power remained in our hands - they still lacked weapons capable of countering my four starships unless those mysterious little beings revealed themselves...

"I'm jealous of Xiao Wei," Linglong sighed sincerely.

Yun Yao teased: "Of what? Zhao Qian can propose to you too when the time is right, though your youth might make it awkward for him."

I apologized to Yun Yao...

"Your oath was just a promise about feelings," she smiled knowingly. "We're only minor wives in the grand scheme of eight, so who are we to be jealous? Remember - if Zhao Fen had kept you under strict control back then, where would we all be now?"

Though tired from using my powers, I needed rest before any emergencies arose...

Linglong lingered after accompanying me to my chambers. As she sat beside me on the bed, I asked gently: "Are you still angry about Xiao Wei?"

"About catching you kissing her that night?" she blushed. "Of course not! You're just... too bold letting her do those things."

I laughed as we reminisced about underwater intimacy...

Linglong suddenly gasped when my hand moved to a specific place: "But how is she still a virgin then?"

"Because," I whispered against her ear, "I didn't touch here..."

The rest of the story continued with Linglong's growing embarrassment...