"This is just Monday morning quarterbacking, isn't it? Only crying for mercy after feeling the pain? If only they had known this earlier, why go down that road in the first place."

"Let's go, let's board the ship. After all, they're the only ones who know the way to Fish Capital."

Little Yu'er seemed afraid to look at us. She silently led the way ahead. These massive war chariots were originally equipped with weaponry, but the attack was so sudden that they didn't have time to fire. Even if they had, it would have been useless; the energy cannon couldn't breach my energy shield, and my speed would have destroyed them before they could launch a second shell.

The interior of the Fish-man war chariot was also filled with water. Beyond embarrassment, the Fish-man Emperor was filled with fear. They had assumed that even if the energy cannon couldn't kill their opponent, it would be enough to tie him up and buy them time to escape. However, everything went wrong because of the opponent's incredible speed.

Silence reigned, mainly because conversation was impossible. General Qiu looked stubbornly unconvinced, perhaps feeling he hadn't exerted his full strength. Nevertheless, he remained quiet, following the Fish-man Emperor and glaring hatefully at the two boarding figures.

Little Yu'er silently guided us into another cabin. She activated the water screen, sat down in a chair in the corner, and remained silent. I didn't know what to say either. Our current relationship was precarious—neither friend nor foe. Once Ouyang Qing and Xiao Cui were rescued, we would leave the seabed. Even if I were to help the Fish-people develop their technology in the future, it probably wouldn't require my involvement. Thus, the chance of us meeting again might be zero.

Ximen Yan and I sat on the iron bench on the opposite side. This place was likely once a lounge. Seeing my grim expression, Ximen Yan stopped talking and quietly massaged my arm. However, her strength was far inferior to Linglong's service. With the wound on the back of my head already healed, and coupled with Ximen Yan's gentle awakening, most of my memories had returned. I remembered there were two other princesses waiting for me in Twin Cities. Adding the two before me, it seemed I was destined only to associate with royalty.

"I know that no matter what I say, you won't believe me. When we return to Fish Capital, once you have Ouyang Qian and Xiao Cui, you can leave. I won't cause any more trouble, because we might never meet again in this lifetime. Little Yu'er says goodbye in advance." With that, Little Yu'er jumped off the chair and plunged into the water, swimming away with a flick of her tail. All that remained in the sea were two trails like strings of pearls.

Ximen Yan sighed. "I didn't expect that in the end, we couldn't even remain friends. I'm sorry if I was too harsh with her before. I couldn't help saying those things. I don't actually hate Little Yu'er; she's a victim too."

I said, "That's in the past, don't mention it. We need to find the other women immediately, and then go rescue your father. Since their technology here is already so advanced, I believe the spaceship can also be completely repaired. We'll be back on Earth soon."

Ximen Yan rested her head on my arm. "Will they look down on me for being a dwarf? I'm so scared. Maybe we shouldn't go."

I comforted Ximen Yan. "No, they will absolutely adore you, because you are very much like our daughter."

Ximen Yan's face turned bright red. "What are you thinking? How lewd!"

The Fish-people were truly terrified. Although the four war chariots ahead were destroyed, fortunately, the occupants were mostly unharmed. They simply couldn't travel to Fish Capital with the main vessel for the time being because this chariot had limited capacity. More Fish-man soldiers would have to wait for support vehicles to arrive before they could leave.

The Fish-man Emperor spoke with a trembling voice. "All your methods of persuasion and surrender have failed, and military attack has also proven useless. Now, what recourse do we have? Even the energy cannon strikes did not harm him! If we cannot devise another way to deal with him, we have no choice but to release the prisoners. Otherwise, our lives are in peril; he will not tolerate our provocations again."

An old Fish-man said, "Your Majesty, we are all extremely frightened. His attack speed completely exceeded our expectations. Even our fastest weapons here probably cannot match his velocity. Furthermore, his strength is astonishingly great. Even if we mobilized the entire nation's forces, we might not be able to handle him quickly. Your Majesty, please consider this carefully."

The Fish-man Emperor asked angrily, "So, you agree to release them and end this matter?"

The several old Fish-men below replied in unison, "Yes, Your Majesty. Do we have any other options? Although this damages the reputation of the Fish-man Kingdom, we were the ones who imprisoned their people first. On the grounds of reason, we are in the wrong."

The Fish-man Emperor flared up. "You were the ones who agreed with my actions back then, and now you say we were wrong! How can I face anyone now? Think of another way!"

General Qiu interjected, "Since the previous strategies failed, why don't we poison him! No matter how fast or strong he is, he might not withstand poison. Once he is dead, the remaining three women will be at our mercy."

The Fish-man Emperor declared, "Good. Although it is utterly despicable, it is a last resort. General Qiu, I entrust this mission to you."

"Ah!" General Qiu exclaimed in shock. "Your Majesty, I have already met him once, and when the persuasion failed, he developed hostility toward me. I request you assign someone else."

"Hmph!" A cold snort echoed. Little Yu'er appeared at the doorway, her face pale. She glanced disdainfully at everyone in the hall. "I never thought the mighty Fish-man Kingdom would sink to this level, capable of such disgraceful acts. You, who have lived for so long, should know shame! Father, I am truly ashamed to be your daughter! You are no longer the great father in my eyes. Your current actions are beneath even petty villains. What is the difference between this conduct and what those Dwarves in the Undersea City do? You made my friends misunderstand me; I hate you, I will hate you for life!"

Little Yu'er left in tears, her heart shattered. She was just a frail, weak girl; what could she truly accomplish even if she wanted to? Now she had to return to her solitary life. No one would ever truly treat her as a friend. Among the Fish-people, she was the Princess, the hope for the future of the Fish-man Kingdom. Everyone respected and avoided her, never engaging her in casual conversation or deep discussions about advanced science. Those who understood such things in the Fish-man Kingdom were usually the elders, but how could Little Yu'er enjoy the company of old men? Deep inside, she yearned for the day a handsome prince would come to take her home.

The Fish-man Emperor's expression was deeply uncomfortable. A minister commented, "Your Majesty, the Princess is still young; in time, she will understand your painstaking efforts. As a monarch, one sometimes needs to act contrary to their true feelings."

The Fish-man Emperor sighed. "I spoiled her, yes, but she is my only treasure, and she is the result of the Fish-people's finest genetic culmination. You people need to hurry up and find a way to deal with that troublesome fellow!"

A middle-aged Fish-man stated, "Your Majesty, I believe this matter still rests on the Princess's shoulders."

Everyone questioned him, "What does that mean? Does the Princess possess a special weapon? General Qiu said she tried to persuade him before, but he wouldn't listen. Sending her out again would be futile and might even put the Princess in danger."

The middle-aged Fish-man minister countered, "Putting the Princess in danger? You blockheads! Even if we were dead, the Princess would be safe. Who saved us just now? Use your brains! If the Princess hadn't rushed out in time, who knows if anyone in those four chariots would have survived—let alone our own lives being precarious. Does anyone here have a way to defeat Zhao Qian, that surface dweller? But with just a few words from the Princess, he stopped attacking. The power of women is sometimes not as fragile as imagined; it just manifests differently than conventional weaponry."

A Fish-man minister blurted out, "Are you suggesting the Princess should go seduce that fellow?"

"Pah! Pah!" A group of Fish-people quickly lashed out at the one who suggested it. "What kind of talk is that, Your Majesty! Punish him!"

The Fish-man Emperor commanded, "Everyone, contribute your suggestions freely. Even if they sound unpleasant or impractical, I won't hold it against you. Let him finish speaking."

The middle-aged Fish-man minister continued, "Your Majesty is wise. I agree with the idea of persuasion, but we have already failed; talking for three more days and nights won't sway him. However, the Princess stopped the attack with just a single sentence just now, which shows her importance to that person. Furthermore, the Princess is exceptionally beautiful, one of the most stunning beauties in our Fish-man Kingdom. Any male would be interested in her, and surely Zhao Qian cannot escape her charm. The Director mentioned borrowing his superior genes just now. Perhaps Your Majesty should consider using the Princess to capture this man's heart? If he marries the Princess and they breed, who knows if the next generation will inherit the excellent genes of both? Your Majesty, please consider my advice seriously. This is a great benefit for the nation and the people; do not let backward thinking restrict the development of us Fish-people."

Silence fell over the Fish-people below. This idea was too extreme. Princess Little Yu'er was the jewel of the Fish-man Kingdom, and currently the only Fish-person capable of vocal speech and surviving briefly in the air. How could such an outstanding princess be married off to an outsider? Especially since General Qiu had long harbored feelings for the Princess and had repeatedly proposed marriage to the Fish-man Emperor. How could he accept his Princess marrying an enemy?

"Your Majesty, I object!" General Qiu shouted. "This is preposterous nonsense! Fish-people cannot intermarry with surface humans, let alone the noble Princess! What if that man's genetic makeup is incompatible with ours? Your Majesty, do not listen to the words of a small-minded person; the Princess's lifelong happiness is paramount! Forcible union could result in monstrous offspring, which would be a great disaster."

The suggesting middle-aged Fish-man minister retorted to General Qiu, "General Qiu, are you perhaps harboring designs on the Princess yourself? How do you know Zhao Qian's genes are incompatible with ours? Are you perhaps opposed to the Fish-people expanding and rising out of the ocean? What about the Princess's lifelong happiness? Since last night, haven't you noticed how much the Princess cares about this man's affairs? She has continuously pleaded on his behalf to the Emperor. Doesn't this prove her concern for him? I think the Princess would be happier marrying him than marrying you!"

General Qiu was furious. "You! Fine, I will remember your words! We shall see what happens as we ride the donkey to inspect the ledger!"

The middle-aged Fish-man minister scoffed, "Do you think I fear you? You are merely a general. I am offering advice to His Majesty. If you have the courage, offer His Majesty a solution too."

General Qiu pondered for a moment. "If we are to form an alliance through marriage, then those two little dwarves cannot be killed. This contradicts our principle of wiping out all threats. What if the Dwarves leave behind roots and return one day? I advocate for poison—using the colorless and odorless deadly poison of our Fish-man Kingdom to kill him!"

The Director of the Academy of Sciences stepped forward. "Your Majesty, could you first find a way for this humble servant to obtain a blood sample and DNA sample from him? This ship is equipped with testing apparatus. We can analyze his genes to determine if they are suitable for Fish-people survival. We can decide what to do after the results are ready."

The Fish-man Emperor conceded, "Very well. It would be vexing to go through all this trouble to capture him only to find it fruitless. You must immediately devise a way to collect the blood and gene samples; this cannot be delayed. Hurry."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences assured him, "Your Majesty, please rest assured, this humble servant will handle it immediately. However, this matter requires the Princess to handle it personally."

The Fish-man Emperor asked, "What help can she provide? Will there be danger? She is my daughter."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences replied, "What danger could there be, Your Majesty? That Zhao Qian wouldn't dare harm the Princess. If the Princess hadn't intervened just now, would we even have had a chance to live?"

The Fish-man Emperor worried, "I fear I will hurt Little Yu'er's feelings, and she might never speak to me again. None of you will be able to move her."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences countered, "Your Majesty, we must treat the symptom. What does the Princess love most? Research, of course! If I tell her that Zhao Qian's genes might have a profound impact on us, I am not afraid she will actively go collect the samples herself. Once she takes charge, even if Zhao Qian refuses, he will agree, because the power of a woman is limitless."

The Fish-man Emperor nodded. "Since we have already done so many despicable things, one more won't matter. Go, I await news."

Little Yu'er swam restlessly in her chamber, her mind in utter chaos. The Director of the Academy of Sciences suddenly appeared. "Princess, I have a matter I wish to report to Your Highness."

Little Yu'er was caressing the spot on her chest where he had grabbed her earlier, lost in thought. Hearing a voice, she suddenly realized she hadn't closed the door and quickly removed her hand from its position. "Director, what is it? Speak. If it's about my father, I don't want to hear it, and don't try to persuade me. My father is too reckless in his decisions; he is no longer the good Emperor and father I once revered."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences said, "Princess, I am not here to play mediator for you and your father, but His Majesty has his difficulties; I hope you can be understanding."

Little Yu'er retorted angrily, "You all ask me to be understanding, but who has ever understood me? On one side is my father, and on the other are my good friend and savior. Director, tell me what I am supposed to do?"

The Director of the Academy of Sciences replied, "This matter is indeed difficult. However, Princess, I am a researcher; I don't involve myself in court matters. I know the Princess has loved scientific research since childhood. There is something I don't know if I should mention."

Little Yu'er said, "If it concerns research, Director, please speak freely. Though recently there hasn't been much good news. Has there been any progress in gene research?"

The Director of the Academy of Sciences exclaimed, "The Princess is perceptive! It is precisely about genes. We witnessed Zhao Qian's capabilities last night. First, he can gather biological energy within his body to form an energy sphere for protection and attacking opponents. Second, the strength within his musculature is superhuman, and his speed far exceeded our projections—even our war chariots and spacecraft cannot match half of it. Don't you think his genes might be highly special? If we could collect a sample for testing, we would know. This could be a crucial step in the evolution of the Fish-people. We are researching for the sake of peace; we are researching to enhance the physical health and extend the lifespan of thousands of Fish-people. Research keeps war away!"

Little Yu'er was greatly invigorated by the Director's persuasion. "Yes, the Director is right. We are emissaries of peace, not executioners of war."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences then feigned concern. "However, while we intend to pursue peaceful research, we fear Zhao Qian will not cooperate. In truth, we only need a tiny amount of his blood and skin. I intended to ask him directly, but his hostility towards us is profound. Moreover, if our technology were to surpass his inherent power, he would surely become jealous. Princess, do you think you could approach him secretly and then sneakily..."

"No," Little Yu'er objected. "Director, you don't understand Zhao Qian's character. To tell you the truth, he is not a Geminiian at all, but an extraterrestrial from the Milky Way. He also desires peace and hopes everyone can jointly explore outer space..."

"You, you, what did you say?" The Director of the Academy of Sciences thought he had misheard.

Little Yu'er stated firmly, "Yes, he is an alien. Director, I respect you deeply, which is why I am telling you the truth. Their technology on Earth has advanced to the point of space exploration, while we are still stuck underwater. He promised to help us develop space technology, but... now I doubt he will even speak to me."

"So, there really are aliens. I thought it was just our delusion or fantasy. No wonder he is so powerful; it turns out that's why. Will they launch an attack on us? Perhaps conquer our planet as a colony? No, I must report this to the Emperor immediately; this is too significant, and I cannot make this decision myself."

Little Yu'er countered, "Director, didn't I just tell you? You don't understand Zhao Qian's character; he would never use violence wantonly. It was only because we forced his hand a few times. He told me he came for peace, wanting to help our planet achieve internal unity so we can focus on looking outward to space. Once we discover the vastness beyond, will we still squabble over trifles between higher beings on the same planet? Director, do you have a collection device? I will go."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences beamed with joy. "Yes, yes, here you go. Just a gentle prick will suffice; blood and skin collected simultaneously. However, Princess, you must be cautious. If he becomes enraged and harms the Dragon Body, I would be guilty of a death-worthy offense."

Little Yu'er declared, "This is not your concern. Even if he strikes me dead, I will have no regrets. I have wronged him."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences murmured, "He probably wouldn't do that, would he? The Princess stopped him several times; he respects your opinion greatly. If the Princess hadn't stepped in just now, we might all be fish food."

Little Yu'er’s heart jolted. She muttered to herself, "Does he really care about me? What am I to him? Just someone who betrayed him several times, who caused two of his friends to be imprisoned. I am a treacherous woman who repays kindness with enmity."

The Director of the Academy of Sciences asked, "Princess, what did you say?"

Little Yu'er responded, "Nothing, Director. I'm leaving now."

Ximen Yan nestled in my embrace. "Will they come up with some other insidious plan? Should we go out and see?"

I replied, "No need. My consciousness can sense the direction the chariot is moving; they should be on their way back to Fish Capital. They couldn't have experienced what just happened without being shaken. If they provoke us again, it will only mean death."

"Little Yu'er is here," Ximen Yan nudged me twice to remind me. I looked up and saw Little Yu'er standing at the doorway. I had been so preoccupied with observing the exterior situation that I had let down my guard right in front of me.

I couldn't ignore Little Yu'er. Although she hadn't brought me any good fortune—in fact, she caused us to waste more time here—I said, "Is something the matter, Your Highness the Princess? We should still be quite a distance from Fish Capital, right? When we arrive at our destination, we will naturally seek you out."

Little Yu'er entered the water screen, steadying herself against the wall as she spoke to me. "Zhao, I know you all hate me, but I want to ask you: do you still remember what you said to me in the water last night?"

I replied, "Of course, I remember. Does that have any bearing on things now?"

"It certainly does," Little Yu'er insisted. "You promised to help us develop technology, to help us break free from the ocean and reach for space. Now, I am not the Fish-man Kingdom's Princess, nor am I some wicked woman. I am here speaking to you in my capacity as a researcher for the Fish-man Academy of Sciences."

I said, "Go ahead. If it's help you need, I can consider assisting you after I return to Earth."

Little Yu'er said, "You don't need to return to Earth. I want to study your genes. Just allow me to take a sample, and our entire Academy will be eternally grateful."

"Absolutely not!" Ximen Yan immediately refused on my behalf. "Zhao Qian, you absolutely cannot agree to this. I heard from the Dwarves in the Undersea City that the Fish-people have reached a very advanced level in genetic research."

I asked, "How advanced? Can they perform gene cloning?"

Little Yu'er answered for Ximen Yan, "Not yet, but perhaps in the future."

I warned her, "Then you must be very cautious. Don't end up like Earth six thousand years ago, creating some creatures that are neither man nor beast..."

I hesitate to continue, because to me, Xiao Yu’er is simply a hybrid of a human and a merfolk. Do I sound dismissive of her, or perhaps of her entire species?

As expected, Xiao Yu’er’s expression darkened. “We understand that genetic research requires caution, but I believe the mingling between species is ultimately unavoidable. Unless all highly intelligent species remain perpetually isolated, long periods of coexistence will inevitably lead to affection, and intermarriage will be just a matter of time. Rather than waiting for that day to arrive naturally, why don't we begin this research now? Zhao, I know my form—neither fully human nor fully merfolk—causes you surprise and perhaps even distaste. But your energy is so immense; your genes must be superior. If you genuinely wish to help us transcend the ocean and reach the cosmos, you must agree to this. I promise you, this research is not for military purposes. If you ever discover that I have deceived you, come and kill me.”

Ximen Yan mumbled quietly, “You’ve already deceived us several times. Who knows what scheme you’re hatching this time.”

I paced the room twice, considering the matter. Looking at the research Hua Qingqing had fired at me earlier, the B-substance truly affecting me internally cannot be replicated, nor can it be preserved outside the body for long. Although my constitution might have subtly shifted, I doubt the Heart of Energy would permit self-replication; otherwise, this entire universe might have already transformed.

Last night, talking with Xiao Yu’er in the seawater, I promised to help her kin develop space technology. But to reach the universe, they must first leave the ocean, and they are already researching this—Xiao Yu’er is the best evidence. Yet, using their current methods, they might need hundreds of years of evolution and screening to leave the depths. We are due to return soon, and Earth's starships will arrive here in the near future. Their development of this place will naturally include scientific aid for the merfolk, the dwarves, and the surface humans. Better to help early than late. Let them research; my DNA inheritance chain is irreplicable, so they can’t cause much harm anyway.

“Fine. I am not a man who goes back on his word. What do you need me to do? As long as it is within my capacity, I will help you. When I return to Earth and come back again, I can bring more advanced equipment and technology. Then your space dream can certainly be realized.”

Xiao Yu’er’s expression turned bleak. “Zhao, in your heart, have I already become a deceitful, bad girl?”

I remained silent. I don’t actually hate Xiao Yu’er, but things have progressed to a point where I am speechless. I certainly can’t bring myself to thank her. Even if I were to treat her as I did before, I’d need to wait until Ouyang Qian and Xiao Cui return safely.

Ximen Yan spoke up, “Xiao Yu’er, if you are truly serious about research, don't bring up other matters. Zhao Qian is a kind person, but kind people are always easily hurt. Now that he overlooks past grudges, stop saying more. Otherwise, I won’t even agree to let him help you, because helping an enemy is irresponsible to one’s own life. But you were once our friend. This is the last time Zhao Qian will help you, so you should know where you stand.”

Tears streaming down her face, Xiao Yu’er handed me a small, glowing, elongated device. “Put it on your arm and press the small button on top. It will only sting for a moment.”

I didn’t hesitate. Taking the small, cigarette-like glowing gadget, I pricked my arm. This time, unlike on Earth, I couldn’t prevent my body from being harmed; blood and skin samples were collected into the device. However, the needle-fine puncture healed instantly the moment the instrument was withdrawn. Others didn't see it, but I felt it myself.

I handed the blood sample back to Xiao Yu’er. She wiped her round, large eyes, but the tears kept flowing, and the lively sparkle in her gaze was gone. “Thank you.”

Xiao Yu’er left in tears, which made Ximen Yan and me feel a pang of sadness. Ximen Yan remarked, “She really cries a lot. She looks quite pitiful, just a fourteen-year-old child. Why must she endure so much tribulation? Zhao Qian, are you sure they won't do anything bad?”

I replied, “My inherited genes cannot be replicated. At most, they can conduct research; they can’t use it to do anything truly destructive. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have agreed so easily.”

Ximen Yan tilted her head. “So you knew everything all along? You made me play the villain just now. But what kind of results do you think they will get from their research?”

I said, “My genes are unique; perhaps they will be of great help to them.”

Ximen Yan asked curiously, “How unique?”

I answered, “The Seed of All Things! Don’t laugh or disbelieve me. On our Earth, there are four energy stones from the distant future, brought back from the distant R-Galaxy. The energy contained within them can surely rival the entire universe. Along with the R-Galaxy came a miraculous artifact: the Seed of All Things. It contains the genetic blueprint of everything, and it is the Blood Flower, which possesses the power of resurrection. You have already benefited from its energy. Within my body, these two substances coexist. The energy stones are, in a sense, my creators, while the Blood Flower is my dear friend, also counted as my wife’s daughter. My body, meticulously nurtured by her, possesses absolutely superior genes. If I may speak boastfully, the genes of current high-intelligence beings on Earth contain a part of mine; it’s not an exaggeration to say they are my descendants.”

Ximen Yan embraced me tightly. “Zhao Qian, I long so much to hear about your experiences. Will you really take me back to Earth? I swear I would love you with my life. Wherever you go, I will go.”

Ximen Yan has slowly been drawn into my emotional orbit. I fear it won’t take long before she wouldn't even blink if I asked her to follow me to hell. I laughed, “Don’t hold me so tight, or you’ll transform again.”

Ximen Yan whispered in my ear, “With you here, what do I have to fear? Wouldn’t you stand by and watch me suffer?”

I teased back, “You mean enjoy it, right? I didn’t see a shred of suffering on you last night.”

Ximen Yan blushed. “How could I not? It was so exhausting being on top of you!”

I suggested, “Next time, you can be underneath, or perhaps you could try the rear entry position, or even side entry.”

Ximen Yan felt an irrepressible surge of excitement and hurriedly pulled away from my body. She said, “Stop teasing me! Those positions are too embarrassing.”

“His cellular life force is incredibly strong!” the head of the Academy of Sciences shouted, pulling his eyes away from the microscope. Xiao Yu’er was the only one nearby, but his voice, though low, carried, betraying the excitement that made it impossible for him to contain his astonishment.

Xiao Yu’er leaned closer to look. The electron microscope displayed a set of fiercely vigorous cells, flaunting their power like robust mermen showing off. The head of the Academy turned to her. “Princess, let’s begin the antibody experiments. First, we introduce them to vacuum equipment and infect them with viruses, starting with the most common viruses down here in the ocean, moving up to the deadliest—cancer, AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea…”

Xiao Yu’er worried, “Isn’t that a bit excessive? These are just a set of human cells. Can they withstand an attack from all those viruses?”

The Director replied, “Why else would we call it an experiment? Come, Princess, lend me a hand.”

The two nervously conducted one set of experiments after another. Although there weren't many human cells on the slides, they defeated the increasingly potent viral invasions. Even the deadliest, a highly contagious virus the merfolk named ‘Grass’ that they could never eradicate, was no match for them. Those usually arrogant viruses were completely devoured and eliminated along with the infected cells, leaving no trace. However, this batch of cells had a short lifespan and soon withered away on their own.

The two sat at the table, calming their racing hearts. The Director sighed. “Princess, ‘Grass’ is a virus we currently cannot eliminate under any condition. It has tremendous vitality, much like grass—even if the above-ground leaves and stems are temporarily destroyed, the roots in the soil will regenerate soon enough. To avoid them, our ancestors migrated the Merfolk Kingdom’s capital several times. I never expected that alien’s body would contain the perfect countermeasure.”

Xiao Yu’er asked, “Does that mean his genes are excellent?”

The Director stood up again. “Not just excellent, Princess. They are too excellent. We must proceed with the next set of experiments; His Majesty is awaiting the results. Let’s see if his genes are compatible with our merfolk genetics.”

Xiao Yu’er’s interest was fully piqued, and she cast aside all distractions to begin DNA data analysis. Soon, the computer returned the results: the experiment proved this gene was suitable for reproduction across all species, possessing strong heritability. Essentially, any offspring bred from this gene would overwhelmingly inherit the superior traits of the original genome. Both of them stared, mesmerized.

The Director exclaimed, “By the gods! Every son he fathers will be a superman! Even with diminished abilities, they won't be as fragile as we are.”

Xiao Yu’er inquired, “Director, can he interbreed with our merfolk?”

The Director confirmed, “Of course. The computer automatically cross-referenced the data with every DNA profile in our database. He could combine even with the genes of a rat or a cockroach. Do you think a merperson is impossible?”

Xiao Yu’er stressed, “He wouldn't marry a rat or a cockroach.”

The Director chuckled. “True. That Ouyang Qing lady is stunningly beautiful—no, rather, shockingly seductive. Even this old bone nearly lost control. Haha, I strayed. I was just giving an example. His gene sequence is incredibly complex. Thank goodness for our supercomputer; a normal machine would take days and nights just to analyze and compare it. A gene like his is a rarity in the universe. It’s a miracle!”

Xiao Yu’er pondered, “Given this, what should we do? Should we persuade my father to stop making things difficult for him?”

The Director replied, “His cellular structure is so unique and complex. Let me study it further. I suspect our current technology cannot clone this type of cell. As for your father, I imagine once we present the findings, he will make the appropriate decision.”

Xiao Yu’er remained silent, watching the Director busy himself, occasionally lending a hand. Finally, around dinnertime, results emerged. The head of the Academy of Sciences felt both elated and dejected. Elated because he had discovered a super-cellular DNA today; dejected because this cell proved impossible to clone. Moreover, no matter how he simulated a human environment to store these cells, they would not survive beyond six hours.

The data was conclusive, but Xiao Yu’er refused to see her father, so the Director volunteered to report to the Emperor himself. He recounted the experiments in simplified terms. The Merman Emperor inquired, “Are you saying his genes are superior and perfectly suited for developing our merfolk genetics?”

The Director responded, “Yes, Your Majesty. Princess and I conducted the experiments personally. All the data indicates that Zhao Qian’s genes are the most compatible for combining with ours. The resulting next generation from merging their genes would be super-strong. In fact, I should put it this way: any offspring Zhao Qian sires, regardless of the maternal species, will be supremely powerful because his genetic inheritance code encompasses all known species. It automatically differentiates the maternal chromosome chain to propagate the desired breeding target.”

General Qiu interjected loudly, “Are you saying if you gave him a pig, he could father super-pigs?”

The Director retorted, “Theoretically, yes. But I doubt that Zhao Qian is as foolish as you, General. Would you willingly sleep with a pig?”

General Qiu opened his mouth as if to complain to the Merman Emperor, but the Director quickly pressed on. “Your Majesty, there is another marvel I must report. The Princess revealed to me that Zhao Qian is not a surface dweller at all.”

Everyone present gasped in shock. “Then what is he? The dwarves aren’t this tall!”

The Director announced, “He is an alien!”

“An alien?!” The declaration caused an uproar, but it was quickly followed by silence. The surface dwellers had always been considered so backward that the merfolk and dwarves disdained them. The sudden appearance of such a prodigy defied common sense, but if he truly was an alien, the explanation suddenly seemed plausible.

The Director continued, “The Princess told me that Zhao Qian comes from the distant Milky Way. He harbors no ill will toward our planet. The reason we are now enemies is entirely because we offended him first. If we release his two friends, he will likely not trouble the Merfolk Kingdom.”

General Qiu bellowed, “You are turning against us! How can we bow to the dwarves? Must we discard all the oaths we took? The dwarves must be utterly annihilated!”

The Director snapped at General Qiu, “You insignificant whelp, you are unqualified to speak to me! If you have the courage, fine, go deal with that alien yourself! If the Princess hadn't intervened today, whether we’d still be alive is doubtful. I tell you honestly, I tested those cells; their self-repair capability is astonishing. Even if you stab or shoot him, he can instantly mend the wound. Exaggerating slightly, losing an arm or a leg would regenerate in moments. The weapon capable of killing him has likely not even been invented yet.”

General Qiu scoffed, “You’re spreading rumors! How can such a monster exist? Doesn't that make him invincible?”

The Director stated firmly, “The ‘Grass’ virus, which we cannot eliminate, is nothing before him. His cells harbor immense power, an explosive force that the Azure Energy Crystal cannot compare to. Calling him invincible is no exaggeration. Even I cannot conceive of what in this universe could destroy him. Furthermore, he is vital to our future. We must not only refrain from killing him but must court and win him over. Otherwise, if he refuses to provide us with his genetic material, we have absolutely no means of forcing him. From my experiments, I discovered his cells cannot be cloned, nor can they survive outside his body for long. Unless he willingly helps us, we are helpless.”

General Qiu dared not speak further. He was well aware of his own limitations. The man could pursue them rapidly and effortlessly destroy four war vehicles—Qiu was certainly no match for that skill. If the confrontation escalated further, the Emperor might order him into battle, which would certainly mean his death.

The Merman Emperor boomed, “My esteemed ministers, since Zhao Qian possesses such incredible ability and is so vital to us, we cannot treat this lightly. You must devise a perfect solution for my sake; stop standing there like a bunch of dullards and use your brains!”

The head of the Academy of Sciences stepped forward. “Your Majesty, the best course of action now is to release those two little dwarves and cease hostilities with him...”

General Qiu threw himself forward. “Your Majesty, no! If you don't cut the grass by the roots, future trouble is certain.”

The Director waved his hand dismissively. “Your Majesty, I disdain sharing a hall with this traitor. Either he leaves, or I leave!”

The Merman Emperor roared, “Guards! Drag General Qiu out! Without my express command, do not approach within ten paces of me again. You ceaseless babbler, still trying to lay eyes on my daughter—dream on! You have never brought me a single piece of good news. Begone!”

Seeing the General dragged away, the Director continued addressing the Emperor. “Your Majesty, I believe this matter requires the Princess to take the lead again.”

The Merman Emperor grumbled, “Why does Xiao Yu’er have to step in again? Does our Merfolk Kingdom have no one else?”

The Director explained, “Your Majesty, it is like this: Zhao Qian’s cells cannot be cloned, and even if we collect more samples, they are useless. Those cells perish and vanish if separated from their host body for more than six hours. The only way forward is to find a beautiful merwoman to engage in intimacy with him, hoping to breed our excellent next generation with his help. While this method will be slow, it is the most effective and guaranteed path. However, once the first offspring is produced, based on my experience, we can then clone cells from that infant, and the probability of success will be extremely high.”

The Merman Emperor declared, “If that is the case, I will order a search for all the beauties in the Merfolk Kingdom! We must ensure Zhao Qian is satisfied. This matter concerns the future survival of the Merfolk Kingdom. I have decided: we will cease the pursuit of those two dwarves, because right now, our lives are in his hands. We have no choice but to stop.”

The Director stated, “Your Majesty, if we entrust this task to any other merperson, success is doubtful.”

The Merman Emperor asked, “In what way?”

The Director elaborated, “Setting aside whether there are any mermaids in the kingdom more beautiful than the Princess, Zhao Qian would likely not favor another mermaid anyway. His repeated concessions to the Princess prove her standing in his heart is significant. Moreover, I can see that the Princess herself has feelings for Zhao Qian. Therefore, to achieve this goal, the Princess must be the one to act. Her involvement means twice the result with half the effort. Any other mermaid would likely have zero chance.”

The Merman Emperor sighed heavily. “I fear Xiao Yu’er will not help me with this. After I hurt her feelings repeatedly last night, it's questionable if she even recognizes me as her father now. How can I then persuade her to actively pursue a man for the sake of the nation and her race? And to bear his child through intimacy? As her father, those words are impossible for me to utter.”

The Director reassured him, “Your Majesty, this must not be done overtly. Otherwise, not only will the Princess refuse, but that Zhao Qian fellow will foil our scheme. Sometimes, the more we push young people together, the less effective it is. But if they come together believing it was accidental or due to unavoidable circumstances, perhaps our objective will be achieved.”

The Merman Emperor urged, “Oh? Do you have a good idea? But let me state first: do not hurt Xiao Yu’er’s feelings again. I am already deeply guilty as a father. I will treat her better from now on to compensate for my past mistakes.”

The Director smiled reassuringly. “Your Majesty, rest assured. I will ensure the Princess is happy and joyful. However, Your Majesty might have to play the villain again. Once they are together and their bond is unbreakable, we can reveal the truth. Perhaps then they will even thank us.”

The Merman Emperor grew anxious. “Then tell me quickly!”

The Director began, “Your Majesty, we need to do this… this way…”

Ximen Yan was worried all day, but late at night, we finally arrived safely at the Fish Capital. It turned out to be a massive underwater trench not far from the center of the ocean, with underwater structures built along the sheer cliffs. This time, the merfolk did not play games. They quickly sent people to bring Ouyang Qian and Xiao Cui out. The four of us met first on the spaceship. Ximen Yan threw her arms around Xiao Cui and wept uncontrollably.

Ouyang Qian, however, hugged my neck and said to me, “Hubby, you’ve been moving too slowly lately. We waited a day and two nights for you! Luckily, you didn't disappoint me in the end.”

I replied, “There was an unexpected incident in the middle. If they hadn't transferred you two here, you would have been rescued last night. How are you? Did they hurt you?”

Ouyang Qian shook her head. "No, actually, Xiao Cui and I were just transferred here, and the Yucheng merfolk haven't had a chance to make a move against us yet."

I said, "Since no one is hurt, let's leave this place. I have a feeling it's less safe here than outside in the gale and downpour. You know I dislike this life of scheming and double-dealing."

Ximen Yan chimed in upon hearing my words. "Exactly. Whether we go to Shuangcheng or try to rescue my father, it's better than being constantly tricked by people here. That little mermaid, Xiao Yu’er, is too unreliable. She knew we meant no harm, yet she kept leading us into traps."

Ouyang Qian remarked, "She probably has no choice in the matter. Don't hold it against her."

Surprisingly, Ximen Yan accepted this and dropped the subject of Xiao Yu’er. I gathered an energy sphere, enveloping the four of us, and stepped out of the battle vehicle, preparing to leave on our own. Just then, we spotted two mermaids swimming toward us from the distance; one of them was Xiao Yu’er. Ximen Yan scoffed, "How dare she show her face? It was she who led us into the encirclement back at the underwater base."

Ouyang Qing said, "It wouldn't hurt to hear what she has to say."

Xiao Yu’er swam closer and slipped into the water barrier device facing us. "I know you hate me and don't want to see me, but the storm outside is still raging. The forecast says it won't stop until tomorrow. Don't leave tonight. In another four or five hours, dawn will break, and by then, my father will send a battle vehicle to take you to Shuangcheng."