It wasn't the first time Mada had experienced something novel, and watching the screen again wouldn't hurt. However, what shocked him was the utterly merciless, blood-soaked depiction of war. He thought everything displayed on the screen must be fake. I opened the hatch, letting him look outside for himself; the shouts of battle were clearly audible.

"This... this... this has greatly shocked Your Majesty. The lives of men are so fragile and worthless. I never truly understood what you once told me—'The success of one general means the bones of ten thousand bleached white.' Now, I do. Little Da, to be a sage ruler, one must, like our ancestors, avoid war whenever possible."

Ma Xiaoda replied, "Father, I naturally understand this principle, but some things are unavoidable. War is brutal, but it also drives technological progress and the implementation of new policies. I am not advocating for war, only suggesting that when war looms, we should focus more on the benefits it can bring to society. Perhaps then we won't mourn the innocent lives lost so easily. What Zhao Zhanshi said is correct: as long as greed exists in men, war can never be truly avoided; it only awaits the right time."

No matter how Ma Xiaoda tried to console him, Mada developed a deep-seated fear of war. Yet, the situation had escalated beyond his control. The hunger of the Wanma Kingdom would not cease because of his aversion to fighting. Even if he disliked war, it had to continue. Still, Mada's inherent kindness could be glimpsed through this ordeal.

Ma Xiaowei and Ma Xiaorui were also terribly frightened. Although the two women had experienced fierce battles before, observing such carnage up close for the first time was different. Yun Yao, unable to bear further tormenting their delicate spirits, quickly piloted the shuttle back to the Twin Cities.

The Imperial Guard accompanying the Emperor suffered heavy casualties in this engagement. This was actually a calculated move between myself and Ma Xiaoda. Gu Qi needed to eliminate obstacles on his path to power, which required rooting out the established figures within the Imperial Guard loyal to the Pang faction. However, finding a suitable pretext was difficult. Openly dismissing them or fabricating reasons to execute them would certainly not escape Grand Tutor Pang's notice. Later, the two of us decided to use this bait-the-enemy tactic to make them contribute to the nation one last time. The catch was that we needed to secretly place a significant number of our own men among those fifteen thousand troops. Otherwise, facing the mounted bandits, they might not even last a single round before scattering, possibly before even clashing. Furthermore, the caltrops planted earlier needed someone to guide them on how to dig them up; otherwise, the bandits would have unimpeded passage, severely compromising our timing for the encirclement.

Although the Imperial Guard traveling with the Emperor suffered devastating losses in this battle, the outcome was more beneficial than detrimental for us. We annihilated the invading bandits and simultaneously eliminated several confidants of the Pang faction, including many Chiliarchs and several Generals. As for the remaining guards, they were isolated and unlikely to cause further significant trouble.

After returning to the Twin Cities, having lunch and resting briefly, the battle reports from Ah Mao and the others finally arrived. Of the more than five thousand bandits who attacked, all but over a thousand—who were captured—were annihilated. The Imperial Guard suffered heavy losses, but they managed to protect the Emperor and the Crown Prince, thus fulfilling their duty. The Commander of the Imperial Bodyguards, Danshi, fought bravely, sustained injuries, and deserved commendation.

Ma Xiaoda read the report and complained to me indignantly, "Why just sustained injuries? This is outrageous! So many people died, why is he still alive?"

I replied, "Perhaps that’s just the way it is for despicable people to survive. But keeping him around isn't bad; he can help us relay certain vital information. He likely doesn't suspect his cover is blown, and we can continue to use him to lure the bandits out."

The messenger, Ah Mao, chimed in, "Your Highness, Sir, it turns out the location of Danshi's injury is quite peculiar. Perhaps it is Heaven punishing him for repeatedly vying with Sir over women."

Ma Xiaoda and I were momentarily stunned. "Oh? How so?"

Ah Mao explained, "He was being pursued by the bandit cavalry and fell off his horse while fleeing. Although this saved his life, his groin was trampled by hooves. Not only were his testicles crushed, but his meat worm was also severed halfway. From now on, he’ll probably be better suited to be a eunuch."

I was quite surprised. "He didn't die from that? Strange. But well, it saves him from constantly harboring thoughts about Cai Jingjing and Ma Xiaowei. As a eunuch, letting him think those thoughts won't cause much harm."

"Report!" Suddenly, an Imperial Bodyguard rushed into the Wencheng Wude Hall. "Your Highness, the Eastern Depot sends word: the bandits outside the South City are emerging. They are carrying strange objects. Please, Your Highness, decide what to do."

Ah Mao's expression shifted slightly. "I'll go take a look. Your Highness and Sir, please remain calm."

Not long after, Ah Mao returned. "Your Highness, the bandits outside the South City plan to attack the city. We need to organize troops for defense."

Ma Xiaoda exclaimed, "How can their remaining men attack the city? Isn't this suicide? Why should we defend? We have rolling logs, stones, and boiling oil prepared day and night!"

Ah Mao said, "Your Highness, the Eastern Depot's reconnaissance range only covers populated areas. However, the territory of the Twin Cities contains much undeveloped wilderness. In just these past few days, they have managed to muster infantry..."

I said, "This is very strange. Have the Wanma people truly decided to take the Twin Cities? Their appetite is too large. Aren't they afraid of us attacking them from both sides using this indirect method?"

Ah Mao continued, "Sir, those infantrymen look like lumps of charcoal from a distance. I suspect they are Jin Kingdom people!"

Ma Xiaoda was even more astonished. "Quickly report this to my Father! The Wanma Kingdom and the Jin Kingdom have allied, and they've bypassed our extensive defenses! Let's go to the South City to investigate first."

Mada rushed over upon hearing the news, and everyone ascended the South City wall together. The bandits, who were ten li away when Ah Mao delivered his message, had already rushed to the base of the city. They were rapidly assembling large scaffolding structures, resembling tall houses on wheels that could be pushed. Although I didn't know their name, I knew these were siege towers.

Mada urged, "Quickly, send our army out to meet them!"

Ma Xiaoda countered, "Father, our mobile forces cannot be recalled until after dusk. For now, we can only rely on the garrisoned Imperial Guard for this fight. Charging out of the city is absolutely out of the question."

Mada worried, "Are the Imperial Guard's weapons sufficient? I think the Horse Supervision Bureau and the Eastern Depot are more useful."

I sighed, "Your Majesty, we have no choice. The bandits are smart; they understand using momentum to gain momentum. They know we committed our full strength to the battle outside the North City, so our defenses at the South City must be lax. We should notify the Imperial Guard to prepare fire arrows. Their siege engines are made of wood; let's burn as much as we can."

There was no pleasantry or opening statement; the bandits quickly deployed their formation. Cavalry patrolled back and forth within arrow range, preventing any Twin City forces from emerging to attack the infantry behind them. The dark-skinned troops behind them quickly assembled siege equipment. Groups of several hundred men worked together, and over thirty tall, house-like structures were soon completed. Squads of black-skinned soldiers climbed inside the structures, and the soldiers on the ground began pushing them toward the base of the city walls.

The two sides finally clashed. Lacking heavy attack weapons, the Imperial Guard could not stop the siege towers, resorting only to firing fire arrows. However, the siege towers were constructed of thick timber, and they couldn't be burned down quickly. In a short time, thirty-plus massive high-frame towers slammed against the battlements. Hundreds of black-skinned soldiers wielding swords charged out of each tower.

Mada watched the charcoal-blackened structures and sighed, "The Jin Kingdom has finally moved against us. I just never expected the first battle would take place in the Twin Cities. How did they arrive? These black charcoal bodies are much taller than us; I fear the Imperial Guard will not be their match."

I said to Mada, "Your Majesty, you should take the Crown Prince back to the palace. This area is dangerous, but rest assured, they can, at most, breach the outer city. The inner city will certainly hold. Once the forces outside the city return, these black men will perish here."

Mada insisted, "Though I dislike scenes of bloody slaughter, how can I retreat to the inner city for self-preservation while the Twin Cities are in peril? I will stay here to encourage the soldiers to fight bravely!"

Ma Xiaoda added, "Yes. Announce that those who perform meritorious service in killing the enemy today will receive great rewards. Father and I are watching!"

In truth, even with cannons and rocketry, it would have been difficult to deal with these enormous siege engines. They were bound together with thick logs, transported dismantled in sections pulled by horses, and only needed to be reassembled at the attack site. A cannon would need to hit it several times to bring one down. The bandits had been hiding in the mountains all this time, waiting for the infantry and the construction of these devices.

As for these dark-skinned men, I couldn't fathom how they infiltrated. Although we possess spacecraft, we cannot constantly patrol the skies looking for changes. Did they follow in the wake of the bandits? Or did they secretly infiltrate by traversing mountains and rivers, bypassing the Liuyang army? In any case, they have now played the role of the oriole behind the mantis, catching us completely off guard.

At this juncture, there was no time to debate whose strategy had prevailed. Black-skinned soldiers were continuously climbing the siege towers to reach the towering battlements. We absolutely had to find a way to cut off their ascent path. Otherwise, as the enemy troops on the walls multiplied, the outer city would fall in an instant.

I slapped my forehead and yelled to Linglong, "I let my anger cloud my judgment! Quickly call Qingqing and Yun Yao and tell them to pilot the spacecraft immediately to bombard these siege towers! Hurry! If another thousand or so of these black men climb up, the Imperial Guard won't be able to hold them."

When Yun Yao is away, my mobile phone stays with Linglong. Firstly, I dislike being constantly interrupted, and secondly, Linglong enjoys playing with the device. She immediately contacted Yun Yao and Hua Qingqing. Hearing that bandits, mixed with black-skinned Jin Kingdom soldiers, were attacking the city, they were both astonished. They knew the Twin Cities' forces were stretched thin—this was extremely perilous.

Gu Qi had already galloped back, but recalling his rear forces would take at least three or four hours. Seeing the black men fight fiercely and the Imperial Guard gradually losing ground across large sections of the battlements, he anxiously urged Mada, "Your Majesty, please return to the inner city quickly. You can still observe the battle from there. If you and the Crown Prince do not withdraw, we cannot act freely."

Ma Xiaoda grew even more anxious, "Zhao Qian, think of something! If the outer city is breached, the common people will suffer greatly."

I looked toward the two spacecraft rising above the Middle City. "Tell the Imperial Guard to fight to the death; they must not lose the city gates! I have notified the spacecraft to destroy their siege towers. Just hold on for a few more minutes."

Ma Xiaoda exclaimed, "That's right! I completely forgot about the spacecraft! Father, let's return to the inner city. With you here, the soldiers hesitate to fight without restraint."

Mada conceded, "Very well. Commander Gu, I entrust this to you. I hope I am not disappointed. The lives of the millions of common people in the outer city rest entirely in your hands."

Gu Qi knelt on one knee and accepted the order. "Your Majesty, rest assured. While the men stand, the city stands. Even if only a single soldier remains, I dare not retreat a single step."

Four spacecraft were stationed: one in Feiyu County, ready to be deployed instantly if trouble arose there; another was shuttling supplies between Huyang and the Imperial Horse Supervision Bureau. Currently, only the one Hua Qingqing and I flew, and the one Yun Yao piloted, were in the Twin Cities. However, the laser cannons on both these spacecraft were extremely powerful—perfect for warfare.

A dark shadow enveloped the area overhead. The bandits and the Jin Kingdom's black soldiers noticed this, but their weapons were useless against the spacecraft. A small laser cannon fired a beam, and after several strikes, one siege tower crashed to the ground in flames.

The spacecraft's attack was swift. All thirty-plus siege towers were dealt with in less than ten minutes, instantly cutting off the pathways onto and off the battlements. Although five or six thousand black-skinned soldiers remained below, they could only gaze longingly at the towering walls. The over three thousand black-skinned soldiers who had ascended the walls were locked in combat with the Imperial Guard. They were outnumbered, but their ferocity in battle was great, leading to a brutal and intense engagement for the moment.

Linglong pointed into the distance. "Master, look! What is that now?"

Behind the dense mass of troops, more large ladders were erected. People swarmed the tops of the ladders, constantly jumping off them—not to commit suicide by falling, but because simple gliders were strapped to their backs! Although some black-skinned soldiers lost control and fell to the ground in a tragic sacrifice, most managed to glide towards the outer city battlements. Some, catching the air currents, soared high, even aiming directly for the Middle and Inner Cities!

I couldn't help but be astonished. How did they conceive of utilizing air currents? With their experience as surface-dwelling humans, they shouldn't have invented such a thing yet. Who was helping them? It now appeared that the Wanma Kingdom and the Jin Kingdom had meticulously planned to seize the city in one fell swoop. I had underestimated their capabilities.

The battle had progressed to a point beyond my control. I could only direct the two spacecraft to target the launching ladders. Finding a high point was enough for them to glide from, and this region was mountainous. Several thousand black-skinned soldiers still flew towards the Twin Cities like locusts. It seemed the only option was to stubbornly defend the city gates and eliminate them piecemeal.

Linglong reminded me, "Master, look over there! It turns out the bandits and the black men have command flags too. I will break their main banner and throw them into disarray."

Indeed, amidst several layers of enemy troops, several large flags fluttered. As the flags waved, soldiers adjusted their attack directions according to the signals. The war had truly entered its white-hot phase. Although I had preceded the Jin Kingdom and the Wanma Kingdom in developing firearms, the quantity of equipment was still insufficient. Moreover, the oriole preying on the mantis had taken us by surprise when our internal forces were weak, launching a sudden assault, and inexplicably adding seven or eight thousand more black-skinned soldiers—this was entirely unexpected.

"You cannot go!" I stopped Linglong. "Take my phone and return to the Middle City immediately. I entrust the safety of our family to you. If defense fails, notify Yun Yao and Qingqing to rendezvous with you."

Linglong asked, "Then what about you?"

"Since everyone is fighting, I cannot stand idly by. I will take the enemy's main banner myself."

"No!" Linglong shoved the phone into my hand. "Let me go. You go back to protect the sisters. My martial arts are better. If something happens to you, what will they do?"

At such a critical moment, I received a connection signal. I couldn't argue with Linglong; I answered the incoming call. To my surprise, the person on screen was Xiao Cui. However, the reference points behind her were miniaturized, so she didn't appear small on the phone screen.

"It really connected? That's wonderful! Zhao Qian, please hurry and save our Princess! That Crown Prince Ximen Qing is about to harm her! I know you won't abandon her! Hurry... we are..." Xiao Cui's words were cut short as the signal abruptly terminated, perhaps due to interference.

Linglong hadn't seen the screen. She asked, "Who was it? Are the sisters in trouble? You should hurry and protect them."

At this moment, I couldn't worry about Xi Menyan. Priorities must be set. Even if I helped her, it would have to wait until this situation was resolved. I pushed the phone back into Linglong's hand, then stated sternly, "I now command you, as your husband, to return to the Middle City immediately. Do not argue, and take care of the elders."

"You!" Linglong stomped her foot, then huffed in annoyance and ran down the battlements towards the Middle City.

I turned to the few personal guards behind me. "It's time to show your bravery. Fight separately or form a squad, but everyone, go kill those charcoal heads."

The guards asked, "Sir, where are you going?"

I drew a guard's saber and leaped off the battlements. "I'm going to cut down their main banner!"

I was frustrated that I couldn't regain my full powers. If I had my original strength, slaying ten thousand men would have been effortless. But now, I could only tread on those black heads and sprint towards the main banner. If my superpowers failed to sustain me, the strategy must be 'kill the king first.'

It didn't take long before I landed near the main banner. On horseback sat a group of strangely dressed figures—I mean their attire was bizarre; everyone was masked and veiled. However, this was like a Han Chinese viewing the clothing of a minority group; it probably wasn't that strange. There were over a dozen of these officials, several of whom were black-skinned. Though faces were hidden, black arms and hands were visible, leading to the inference that these two nations had long conspired. They intended to take the Twin Cities completely and then enjoy the prosperous land themselves. Once the Twin Cities fell, other prefectures would lack the strength to resist. Their scheme was identical to mine right now.

Before my feet even touched the ground, I slashed twice. The two closest bandit officials were instantly decapitated. Their immediate guard detail had seen me flying toward them and were shouting, driving their horses to surround and attack me. The officials, however, kept retreating backward, turning their horses to flee. I evaded the kicking of over a dozen warhorses, leaped up, first slashing the main banner, and then pursuing and cutting down the fleeing officials' horses. The guards behind me pursued relentlessly.

With another slash, two bandit officials who appeared to hold considerable rank were cleaved in two. The blade was so sharp that it even sliced through the clothing and collar of the leading bandit—the one trying to escape fastest! This was perhaps equivalent to sword energy in Wuxia novels; so, it actually exists! I thought it was just a fabrication used to intimidate people. Being able to inflict damage from such a distance indicated my superpowers had greatly improved, but after chasing for so long, my stamina seemed to be failing.

Suddenly, a delicate cry rang out: "Ah! Scoundrel!" It turned out the leading bandit was a woman. It was embarrassing to expose her to the open air like that.

The woman on horseback likely never imagined that the blade's path would slice her clothes open down the middle. Fortunately, it didn't take her life, but the skin was stinging, suggesting an injury. She clutched her chest with both hands and tossed her disheveled long hair back to look.

Hummm. I felt the world suddenly spin, followed by a blow as if struck by someone. Beneath the mass of black hair, half of a charmingly seductive face was revealed. It was Ouyang Qian! Absolutely unmistakable. That fox-like face was unique in the entire universe. Only now did I realize that the language she spoke was Mandarin! And I had almost cleaved her in half with my own hand!

I stood frozen. The pursuing bandit guards paid no mind to this. Attacking with horse and man, I was immediately struck several times, my body thrown several meters by two charging warhorses, leaving me covered in blood as if I had run through a dye vat.

Even so, my eyes never left Ouyang Qian. I feared she might vanish before me at any moment. My body felt as though it were shattering from intense pain. At this moment, Ouyang Qian was too preoccupied with looking back at the enemy to control her horse's direction. In its panic, the warhorse scraped past a tree. Ouyang Qian's side leg was grazed by the trunk. She was already struggling to cover her chest with both hands, and she somersaulted backward, falling from the horse's back. The warhorse behind her showed no sign of stopping; if she landed, she risked being trampled to death.

I blasted the warhorse blocking my view with a palm strike and leaped two meters into the air from flat ground, extending both hands just in time to catch Ouyang Qian. Even at this critical moment, Ouyang Qian tried to protect her modesty. However, she probably didn't realize that her backside and smooth buttocks were fully exposed. As my hands caught her, they landed precisely on both cheeks.

I no longer have time to savor this moment of **tenderness. My strength completely spent, I naturally tumbled to the ground with Ouyang Qing. Fortunately, I cushioned her fall, so she wasn't injured. The warhorses immediately following couldn't be restrained; they reared up and galloped toward Ouyang Qian’s stomach. I rolled and shielded her beneath me again. The hooves striking my back felt like needles piercing my skin. Then, a spiked mace swung down toward my head. My head spun, and in a daze, I saw Ouyang Qian’s anxious face. But immediately, everything vanished. I don't know if my superpower was exhausted, but I certainly made a fool of myself this time.

The fighting inside the Dual Cities was fierce. It took a full day and night for the black soldiers who had infiltrated the city and those who had first scaled the battlements to be completely wiped out. It was fortunate that the external reinforcements all arrived by evening. They taught those ferocious black warriors a harsh lesson with their rifles. No amount of solid muscle could withstand gunfire; strong bodies became cold corpses one after another.

The forces of the Eastern Depot and the Imperial Stables pursued the enemy relentlessly overnight. The battle was a decisive victory in the end. Of the twenty thousand invaders, fewer than three thousand managed to escape with their lives. Calculating the total casualties, the Dual City Nation was ultimately the victor.

As evening fell, rumors began to circulate. The great proletarian warrior, the former official of the Imperial Stables and Chief Commander of the Eastern Depot, had died heroically on the battlefield. To disrupt the enemy's command, he disregarded his own safety and charged deep into the enemy ranks, cutting down their standard bearer. He then slew several enemy generals, which threw the enemy's attack formation into chaos, creating advantageous conditions for our army's victory. However, this great hero was ultimately overwhelmed by sheer numbers and trampled to death by the wild horses.

Initially, the Zhao Manor was quiet. The beautiful women all believed that the man would be fine, and that the rumors would naturally collapse once the truth emerged. But as time dragged on, there was still no news of him. Finally, some could no longer remain patient.

Zhou Ni asked Linglong, "Did you really see him charge down the battlements?"

Linglong replied, "Yes, I wanted to go myself, but Master ordered me back, threatening to... to divorce me otherwise. I was frightened, so I dared not linger. But when I looked back one last time, I definitely saw him leap from the ramparts."

Hua Qingqing twisted the corner of her dress. "He's always so arrogant, not realizing his superpower isn't what it used to be. What if... what if something really did happen?"

Linglong sighed. "Yes, I'm worried too. I wish we had made the Master bring a life-saving divine needle. Let's go look for him. Perhaps, perhaps he is just injured and waiting for us to help him."

Yun Yao stood up. "Let's go find Zhao Qian. Waiting here achieves nothing."

Thump-thump-thump, Ah Mao strode into the main hall. The women rushed to ask, "Brother Mao, do you have any news of Zhao Qian?"

Ah Mao’s face was filled with grief. "Ladies, I fear the situation is complicated, but the news is unconfirmed. Please, do not be overly agitated."

Cheng Susu's face turned pale. "Just tell us quickly what happened..."

Ah Mao said, "According to the general guarding the battlements, he witnessed a chaotic fight beneath the enemy's main standard. Someone killed several enemy leaders, but was ultimately trampled by panicked horses. Because the scene was chaotic, he knows nothing of what happened afterward."

The rumors seemed confirmed. Xu Chen and Cai Jingjing burst into tears. The two girls were the least resilient in temperament. They had just begun to think their happy days were starting, only to have him vanish suddenly. They stayed confined in the manor, and their experience in social matters was less than half of Linglong's.

Linglong bit her lip. "Everyone, don't worry. After all, no one explicitly stated that the man killing the enemy leaders was our Master. Let's go question the prisoners. Perhaps the Master merely followed those defeated generals; the situation was urgent, and he didn't have time to send us a notice."

Yun Yao stood up. "Exactly. I believe my husband is the greatest man in the universe; he will be fine. Otherwise, his name wouldn't be Zhao Qian. If you won't go, Linglong and I will go to the prison camp."

Every one of the women was frantic with worry and rose to go together. Ah Mao said, "I will accompany the ladies."

Bang! The manor gate was suddenly slammed open, followed by Ma Xiaoda's crying voice: "Zhao Qian, get out here! There are rumors outside that you're dead—I don't believe it! Come out and talk to me! Which bastard dares spread rumors again, I'll kill him!"

Hua Qingqing grabbed the wildly darting Ma Xiaoda. "Stop looking. Zhao Qian is truly missing."

Ma Xiaoda froze on the spot. "Sister Qingqing, are you saying the outside rumors have some basis?"

Hua Qingqing wept. "Perhaps. But until things are confirmed, we refuse to believe Zhao Qian is gone. It's just that his superpower has been unstable, and flying into the enemy ranks and killing several enemy generals... perhaps he is truly in danger."

"No, no!" Ma Xiaowei and Ma Xiaorui were standing by the doorway, tears streaming down their faces as they shook their heads denying Hua Qingqing’s words. "Zhao Qian is a man of such stature; petty bandits couldn't possibly harm him. You are his wives; you should trust his abilities even more."

He Yuqing, who had been silent, spoke. "Everyone, calm down. This isn't about whether we believe in Zhao Qian's abilities or whether we believe the rumors. Our husband has indeed been gone all afternoon without a word. I remember you mentioned that when he was on Earth, he also disappeared once—wasn't the longest time half a month after the natural disaster? So, we just need to confirm he isn't dead. Besides, with our combined strength, we can even revive the dead. What are you afraid of?"

He Yuqing's words were like a shot of adrenaline to everyone. Yes, if they could bring the dead back to life, what was there to fear? Moreover, the distance between the city walls and the enemy standard was so vast; who knew what truly happened? And the Imperial Guards never said the person they saw was their husband.

With hope rekindled, the women immediately set into action. Ma Xiaowei and Ma Xiaorui joined the party, providing quite a spectacle for the citizens and soldiers who were working overnight to repair the damaged houses and walls. However, they all knew these were the hero's wives, so no one stared too long or entertained inappropriate thoughts—this was out of respect for the hero who had fallen.

Ma Xiaorui mumbled fretfully, "Why did he have to show off? He should have just stayed on the wall and waited for reinforcements. Doesn't he know so many people rely on him for their livelihood? Now look, if he leaves behind a house full of widows, that will look terrible."

Ma Xiaowei wished she could sew that crow's beak shut. "Don't talk nonsense, Xiaorui. Nothing is confirmed yet. Guessing like that only makes everyone worry more."

Ma Xiaorui whined, "I'm scared! Why is he so reckless? It's all because of Dan Shi. This affair started because of him; I won't let him off easily."

This was not the time to discuss origins, so no one paid attention to Ma Xiaorui. They quickly reached the prison camp. Ah Mao instructed several soldiers who had returned from the southern front and understood horse language to question the captives one by one. These captured or surrendered bandits and the black men from the Jin Kingdom all shook their heads. The women knew that anxiety was useless, so they could only wait in the prison camp office for the time being.

Two hours later, the exhausting interrogation yielded results. Several prisoners confirmed that they had been near the main standard at the time. A tall, handsome man had indeed rushed down, cut down the standard, and killed several bandit officials. However, he suddenly intervened to save the life of 'Qi Da.' Unfortunately, fate turned against him; he fell to the ground while embracing 'Qi Da' and was immediately trampled by the wild horses.

The women had no idea what 'Qi Da' referred to. After translation, they learned that in the language of the horse people, it meant 'mysterious' or 'sacred.' The prisoners said it was their spiritual leader, a young woman of unparalleled beauty. Her clothes had been split open by a knife, and many had seen her mysterious skin. But just as she fell from the horse and was in mortal danger, the man who was about to kill her suddenly sacrificed his own life to save her. Some prisoners also confirmed that he shielded 'Qi Da' with his life, ultimately having his skull smashed by Barru, known as the foremost warrior, with a spiked mace.

This news was fatal. No one blamed him; there was only weeping. His temper was something his wives all knew. It seemed that mysterious woman possessed a great charm to move him to sacrifice his life to save her. He had saved countless beauties, but this time, it resulted in such an ending. This was undeniably an earth-shattering event. Except for Linglong, who remained somewhat strong, several women fainted on the spot.

The scene in the prison camp spread through the Dual Cities like wings on a bird, and it also reached the manor of Grand Tutor Pang. The old tutor immediately ordered his servants to set up offerings to thank Heaven, while secretly convening a grand celebration. The time had come for him to take charge once more.

The news also reached the Dan King's residence. Dan Shi, who was lying in bed groaning in agony, was instantly jolted like receiving a strong stimulant. He jumped out of bed. If there had been champagne, he would have opened a bottle to celebrate, but he had to immediately share this good news with everyone.

Ximen Yan, who was desperately hoping for rescue, was confined to her boudoir, watching the distance with longing. Events had unfolded beyond her expectations, and also beyond the expectations of Ximen Qing and his father, Ximen Ding. The Merfolk had suddenly counterattacked. They had consecutively destroyed several of the Dwarves' underwater bases and were very likely to attack Ximen Ding's main base next. At this point, even the mysterious treasure box of the Creator God held no sway over Ximen Ding. He needed all his military strength to deploy defenses around the base and several key strongholds. Naturally, he no longer had the capacity to aid Ximen Tian—or rather, to retrieve that treasure box.

Ximen Yan worried about her father's and brother's safety. She wanted to return to the subterranean city alone to rescue them, but Ximen Qing absolutely refused to let her leave. In his view, the beauty who was almost his could not be allowed to slip away again, even if it meant a complete falling out. Thus, he stationed guards outside Ximen Yan's residence twenty-four hours a day. Without their assistance, Ximen Yan could not return to the underground city by herself. The matter reached a stalemate.

Ximen Qing sensed that Ximen Yan was growing colder toward him by the day, even bordering on hatred. Therefore, he plotted constantly to find an opportunity for another "Springtime Union" with Ximen Yan. Last time, his scheme failed, resulting in the cancellation of their engagement. This time, he was wiser; he was determined to succeed in one fell swoop. Even if Ximen Yan turned against him afterward, it wouldn't matter once he obtained what he desired.

"Sister Yan," Ximen Qing arrived again with food. He was a master at charming women; no matter how vile his inner thoughts, his outward demeanor was always first-rate. If Ximen Yan hadn't been burned once before, she might truly have succumbed to his seductive advances. "It's time for dinner. Don't worry. I’m keeping you here for your own good. What if you returned to the underground city alone and were captured by that brat Nangong Ao? I see clearly the wicked plans he harbors for you. The Merfolk attack was sudden; this is unavoidable for us. You must understand and sympathize with my and Father Emperor's decision."

Ximen Yan replied to Ximen Qing, "Crown Prince, I understand your difficulties. Since that is the case, I no longer wish to rely on your power. May I find someone myself to rescue my father and brother? You only need to help me return to the underground city. Ximen Yan will be eternally grateful to you."

Ximen Qing said sternly, "That won't do, Sister Yan. Not only do we have an engagement, but we are also kin. How could I agree to let you go on an adventure? Even if I have to bear the shame spoken by you and Miss Xiao Cui, I will endure it. The guards outside will not be removed. You cannot leave! I am doing this for your own good; you must understand!"

These high-sounding justifications indeed made it impossible for Ximen Yan to refuse. Even if she refused, it would be useless because she couldn't leave her room. Even if she could leave the room, escaping the underwater city would be difficult. Even if she escaped the underwater city, without transportation, relying solely on Xiao Cui's drill knife, it would be impossible to cross the vast distance back to the subterranean city.

Ximen Yan suppressed all her anger deep within her heart. Seeing her expression sour, Ximen Qing put down the food container. "You two eat. The Merfolk have been making constant probes against the underwater city recently. Father Emperor and I must go out for an inspection patrol. I will come to see you later."

Ximen Qing left in a hurry, but the room door immediately locked itself. Furthermore, there were guards outside. Ximen Yan and Xiao Cui were helpless. With nowhere to vent her rage, Ximen Yan threw the fine bedding onto the floor in a fit of temper. Xiao Cui soothed her, "Princess, throwing a tantrum is useless. Why don't you eat first and then continue thinking of a solution?"

Ximen Yan said suspiciously, "Who knows if there’s poison in his food? I won't eat! Oh, right, did you manage to send the signal? Why is there still no response from Zhao Qian?"

Xiao Cui replied, "How could he respond? The signal was cut off by the guards right after I said halfway through the message. He probably doesn't even know where we are."

Ximen Yan retorted, "Impossible. He brought us here; he must know the general location of the underwater city. Could it be that he resents us for attempting to assassinate him before, and now he is getting revenge by abandoning us?"

Xiao Cui answered, "That's unlikely, Princess. Think about it: he had the chance to take our lives before, but he didn't. Instead, he saved your life. Later, he didn't need to help us come here, but he still did. Besides, his wives all seem very kind. He shouldn't be a bad person."

Ximen Yan snapped back, "Then why won't he save us? Is he as contemptible as Ximen Qing, demanding I pledge myself to him before he'll help?"

Xiao Cui explained patiently, "Princess, didn't I tell you? That day, it took me half a day just to sneak into the machine room and turn on the device. I barely managed to send the signal before the underwater city guards discovered me, cutting off the rest of the message. He might not know what is happening here at all."

Ximen Yan insisted, "Then try sneaking out again to see if there's a chance. Every extra day we stay here, my father and brother are in danger for one more day. Whoever can help me, I... I will truly pledge myself!"

Xiao Cui knew that the two of them were destitute now. The only thing they could rely on was the Princess's beauty. However, with Ximen Qing acting like this, they were likely to lose more than they gained, not only failing to catch the prey but also trapping themselves in a wolf's den.

As Xiao Cui set out the food, she said, "Princess, please don't worry. Eat something; you need to nourish your body. I don't know how they make food here, but it tastes much better than ours."

Ximen Yan scooped some of the broth from the basin. "This isn't synthetic food; it must be from the sea fish."

Xiao Cui picked up a piece and examined it closely. "I don't think so. It looks a bit like sliced bamboo shoots, but the taste is very strange. Luckily, it’s not too bad—it's quite chewy, gē lǐ gē lǐ."

Ximen Yan replied, "Then you should eat more. I'm afraid of gaining weight, so I'll just have some soup."

Xiao Cui countered, "Princess, that mindset is wrong. The nutrition is actually in the soup. If you want to stay slim, you must eat the synthetic food. Quantified nutrition for every meal will ensure you don't gain a single ounce of excess fat."

Ximen Yan stirred the soup with her spoon and declared, "Then let me get truly fat—ideally, fat as a pig. That way, no man will ever look at me with designs again."

Xiao Cui chuckled. "Princess, you should be proud! If I were as sexy and beautiful as you, I would be overjoyed."

After eating, the two had nothing else to do but lie on the bed and chat aimlessly. However, after a short while, they noticed something was wrong. A heat began to rise from their lower abdomens, circulating throughout their bodies. Wherever the hot air flowed, it became intensely hot. Their cheeks flushed red, and fine beads of sweat emerged.

Xiao Cui asked Ximen Yan, "Princess, are you hot?"

Ximen Yan replied, "Yes, my body feels hot enough to burn my hand. Are we coming down with a fever? Or is the room temperature rising?"

Xiao Cui looked up at the indicator panel on the wall. "Humidity, temperature, and oxygen levels are all normal. It must be us running a fever. It feels like hot blood is about to flow out of my nostrils. Maybe we are sick. Let’s call someone quickly."

Ximen Yan grabbed Xiao Cui's arm tightly. "No! My body is so hot and aching, Xiao Cui, no! This is bad, I think I'm about to transform again."

"Ah!" Xiao Cui exclaimed in shock. "But weren't you better? Why transform again? What if Crown Prince Ximen Qing finds out?"

Ximen Yan moaned in pain. "I can't worry about that now! Hurry and help me take off my clothes; I feel awful. My bones feel like they are being torn apart!"

Xiao Cui knew that if the clothes weren't removed immediately, they would be ripped to shreds again, just like last time. Without hesitation, she stripped Ximen Yan completely naked. A petite body, less than a meter tall, appeared on the bed. Ximen Yan's entire body was as white as snow, lacking even dark fuzz below. Her two breasts, only the size of a normal man's fist, trembled slightly; compared to her overall physique, these breasts were exquisite.

The chamber was spacious, but the bed was small. Ximen Yan struggled in pain. Her delicate body began to lengthen inch by inch, like an animation on a computer screen. The two small peaks on her chest slowly inflated, turning into towering mountains. Her waist and hips rapidly expanded. Watching this, Xiao Cui's jaw dropped. Although it wasn't the first time she had witnessed Ximen Yan's transformation, this bizarre sight was still hard to accept.

In less than ten minutes, Ximen Yan had transformed into a tall, mature beauty. No human on the surface would ever guess that just moments ago, she was a dwarf barely reaching the height of a waist. However, the bed could no longer accommodate her. Ximen Yan had to curl up with the bedding in a corner.

"What am I to do now? Why did I transform again? If others see me, they'll arrest me as a monster."

Xiao Cui stood at a height that only reached Ximen Yan’s seated level on the floor—the contrast between the tall and the short looked very strange. "Princess, don't be afraid. Perhaps you will shrink back by morning. Ximen Qing usually doesn't come here at night. Don't worry. Didn't you revert to normal fairly quickly last time?"

Since things had come to this, Ximen Yan offered a wry smile. Who knew that being saved would result in such a side effect? If she kept fluctuating like this, what category would she even fall into?

Could she possibly see anyone in this state? Fortunately, no matter what kind of monster she became, Xiao Cui would always stay by her side. Thinking of this, Ximen Yan affectionately pulled Xiao Cui into an embrace.

Xiao Cui suddenly saw nothing but white, then plunged headfirst into a deep ravine, unable even to breathe. She struggled out desperately. "Princess, you're suffocating me!"

Ximen Yan looked embarrassed. Compared to Xiao Cui, her own chest was like two massive objects. Hugging too tightly just now had wedged Xiao Cui into her cleavage, where the snow-white flesh blocked her nose and mouth, making breathing impossible.

The initial feverish heat had faded after all that commotion, soon replaced by a chill that prompted the two to cling to each other tighter. Cui rested against Ximen Yan's chest, which felt like a mound of cotton, excitedly bouncing like a child. Seeing her current expression, one might wish Ximen Yan would never return to normal.

However, events seldom unfold as one wishes. As their body temperatures dropped, they realized that their inflated forms were slowly shrinking. Fortunately, this retraction was nothing like the first agonizing experience; it happened subtly, so much so that if Cui hadn't been there for comparison, they might not have noticed at all.

Finally, Ximen Yan returned to her original form, identical to Cui. Both were utterly exhausted, and even racking their brains wouldn't explain what had happened. There was nothing for it but to go to bed early and rest, intending to figure it out later.

That club blow sent my world spinning. I truly suspected the heavens were about to abandon me. After all, I used to be a B-Class Superman; how could I be taken down so easily? But when consciousness returned, a sense of relief washed over me—at least that blow hadn't killed me. Had it not been to save Ouyang Qian, I would have surely wiped out all of them back then.

Wait, Ouyang Qian? Where am I? I shot up instantly, only to bash my head into a soft mound of flesh, followed by a sharp yelp. "Ow! You crushed me!"

"Qianqian!" In the darkness, I fumbled, realizing in my haste that I had lurched up while lying in her arms and slammed my forehead right into her chest. It might hurt for days, but knowing Ouyang Qian was safe, I finally relaxed.

Ouyang Qian's cry of pain vanished, replaced by silence in the dark. But then two hands reached out from the darkness, tracing paths from my chest up to my face. Soon, I heard a low, choked sob.

"Hubby, I thought I'd never see you again in this lifetime. I never imagined you would cross vast interstellar distances to find us. Qingqing is so touched, Hubby, I love you!"

With that, Ouyang Qian pulled me into an embrace and kissed me wildly.

My head still throbbed painfully, and vague images flickered at the edge of my mind, almost clear but not quite. Yet, when Ouyang Qian became this passionate, it was hard not to reciprocate. Moreover, successfully finding her was cause enough for a major celebration. So, the two of us clung together, tearing the clothes from each other’s bodies, soon becoming one.

Eventually, Ouyang Qian collapsed onto me like a heap of soft mud, unable to move. I kept my hands cupping her backside, allowing her body to continue riding the rhythm of my hips up and down, and murmured, "You seductive vixen, your skills seem a bit rusty."

Ouyang Qian, half-dead, replied, "Yes, Hubby. You haven't made love to me in so long. Please, just let it be like this for now; I want to talk to you. I remember there were eight of us in total; I wonder if you've found the other seven sisters."

The hands supporting Ouyang Qian's hips suddenly froze. Right, the others? Why couldn't I recall? It felt like I had found them, but where were they now? It seemed the only thing I could clearly recall was saving Ouyang Qing. But why did I appear next to Ouyang Qing? Good heavens, I've lost part of my memory!

"What are you thinking about? Hubby?" Ouyang Qian asked when she noticed I had stopped moving and fallen silent.

I felt cold sweat erupting. "Qingqian, I seem to have forgotten some things—about the other seven women, about my experiences after coming to Twin Stars. All I remember is leaving Gourd Village, and then seeing you on the battlefield. It seems... it seems we weren't enemies; why were we meeting on a battlefield?"

Ouyang Qian clung to my chest like an octopus. "Poor Hubby, that Balu's morning star strike must have concussed you badly. It will take time to recover. I remember you were our enemy because you killed so many fierce generals from the Iron Horse Tribe. Hmph, thank goodness you're my husband, or you'd be a goner! But you saved me so bravely; Qianqian was truly moved. But what about your superpowers? That's strange; before, you wouldn't have had any problems."

True enough, being struck from behind the head with a morning star, surviving without superpowers protecting me was already a miracle. Losing some memory was a blessing in disguise; I shouldn't be so down. "My superpowers were sucked away when we crossed the wormhole. On the battlefield, it seems I was indeed there to kill, but I don't know why. Perhaps I can start my investigation from there; just a single clue might bring it all back."

Ouyang Qian looked troubled. "That won't work, Hubby. Our forces were routed by the Twin City Nation. I led you back through secret passages to the Ten Thousand Horse Nation. This is my temporary palace. Returning to Twin City will take some effort."

I grew agitated. "Effort or not, I must go. It feels like I found the others, but for some reason, I can't remember the details. I need to go to Twin City to find them; maybe they are waiting for me there."

Ouyang Qian didn't try to stop me. "Then you must take me with you, Hubby. I swore an oath: if heaven returned me to your side, I, Ouyang Qing, will never leave your side for a single step. Even if you go to the latrine or make love to others, I must follow. These past few days were like living in hell for me. Now that I've finally found you, I'll go wherever you go."

"That goes without saying," I replied. "But it's dark outside. Let's sleep now and discuss these matters tomorrow."

Ouyang Qing laughed. "You still want to sleep? You’ve been asleep for over half a month! I really suspect you might be a monster; you can survive without eating or drinking."

"What?" I was completely bewildered. "No way. It feels like it was just moments ago I was holding you, hiding from the warhorses."

Ouyang Qian sighed. "Would I lie to you? You really slept for over half a month, not even waking during the bumpy ride back home. I thought you were evolving, so I didn't disturb you. Don't you have any recollection of it?"

I rubbed my forehead. "If I was in a coma, it's normal not to remember. But my body does feel much stronger than before; perhaps I really was evolving. It's just that this cursed Twin Stars world has conditions unsuitable for us, which is why things ended up like this."

Ouyang Qian suddenly let out a heavy sigh. "Alas, now that you're awake, I don't know how I'll explain things to the King tomorrow. After all, you personally killed several high-ranking court officials. This matter must be settled, but I cannot let you suffer the slightest grievance. I fear tomorrow's court session will involve quite a struggle."

I pressed Ouyang Qian beneath me. "What's there to explain? We aren't from here anyway. Pack your bags in a moment, and we'll leave. Let them handle their own affairs."

As she was entered again, Ouyang Qian let out a low muffled groan, followed by a burst of laughter. "You're right, these matters have nothing to do with us. I was getting confused by trying to blend into their lives. Fine, Hubby, I'll do whatever you say. We'll leave in a bit."

"Your little opening feels tighter," I said to Ouyang Qian as we moved together.

Ouyang Qian giggled in response. "Your treasure seems thicker too. Since it hasn't visited Qingqian's body lately, things naturally get tighter down there. You used to torment me daily; it was hard not to loosen up."

"Did you try to seduce any men here?" I asked, kissing Ouyang Qian.

Ouyang Qing chuckled. "With your wife's charm, would I need to seduce anyone? Men fall to their knees beneath my skirt without me even showing my face. But I'm not interested in any of them. Your very first time making love to me, those ten waves of ecstasy completely conquered me. Though Qianqian might look alluring, my heart only loves you, Hubby."

I drove deep into Ouyang Qian with a sudden thrust. "Alright, you go pack things up. I'll lie here a while, and then we'll leave. Oh, and tell me about your experiences."

For more novels, visit storyread.net.