Silian Tian had smoothly taken over his underground city. The citizens had always held a higher affinity for him compared to Nan Gong Quan, and with the latter's regime marked by corruption, the people's support for Silian now surged even greater. Guided by guards, we quickly arrived at an underground chamber.

This place likely remained unknown to Nan Gong Quan regarding its secret function, as he hadn't destroyed or utilized it. Silian Tian placed the cipher box into a machine; soon the computer system began reading the disk. Moments later, data retrieval succeeded. For everyone's viewing convenience, we projected the visuals onto a large screen.

Unfortunately, no one present recognized the language and script within the projection—not even Silian Tian—though this didn't hinder our understanding since most content resembled movie-like narratives with action sequences that could be comprehended through context.

The twin planets initially existed as barren wastelands beyond volcanic rock formations. One day a species of intelligent extraterrestrials arrived in spacecraft to mine resources, apparently so disinterested in the desolation they subconsciously altered the planet by harvesting blue energy crystals. Greenery emerged alongside aquatic and terrestrial lifeforms.

I speculate these aliens may have once visited Earth collecting biological samples—though this remains conjecture. While their physical appearance differed from humans, they closely resembled the alien corpse discovered at Fish City, suggesting they might be the "World-Creation Deities" mentioned by the Fish Emperor. Through lab cultivation of species similar to Earth's organisms, they populated Twin Stars before quietly departing after completing their first mining phase.

The evolutionary process on Twin Stars proved painstakingly slow and fraught with setbacks—some lifeforms rapidly adapted while others perished quickly. After millennia of geological evolution, highly intelligent beings emerged, most notably human-like creatures whose technological civilization reached levels comparable to current standards.

Eons later, the aliens returned for renewed extraction operations as energy crystal reserves depleted. Unlike before, however, Twin Star humans now resisted territorial encroachment by their creators, sparking conflict.

The war's outcome proved disastrous—Twin Star humans nearly perished under superior weaponry. Some survivors fled into deep oceans to evade extermination, potentially becoming ancestors of the Fish People though without tail evolution at that time.

While eliminating rebellious humans and extracting resources, the aliens eventually departed again. Yet natural evolution continued unabated as life once started cannot be eradicated entirely. The Fish People's ancestors dwelled underwater escaping annihilation, vowing never to return to surface territories. Meanwhile, terrestrial survivors gradually rebuilt civilizations achieving high technological levels.

When extraterrestrials returned for another mining phase, twin star humans again refused resource plundering. Advanced weaponry decimated human settlements—though complete eradication proved impossible. This time however, defeated humans chose subterranean refuge instead of oceans, likely forming the Dwarves' ancestral lineage though early on they didn't possess their current diminutive stature.

Upon completing extraction operations, aliens departed once more and the projection ended. Most viewers found it confusing with Xiao Yu especially disappointed. "What nonsense!" she exclaimed, "No revelation about World-Creation Deities or secrets my father promised!"

I replied, "Don't you realize these 'deities' are actually alien intelligences? They brought life to this planet only for their species to eventually rebel against them. However, they underestimated humanity's survival instincts and territorial nature—people will never allow resource exploitation by creators no matter how advanced those beings may be. Now both Fish People and Dwarves heavily utilize energy crystals. Even if you don't actively oppose the aliens' return, continued crystal consumption will inevitably provoke intervention. History shows the next mining phase is imminent."

Everyone's faces darkened—no one desired conflict with extraterrestrials who would surely prevent Twin Star civilizations from reaching comparable technological levels.

A technician suddenly exclaimed in alarm as he noticed the computer system emitting signals autonomously. "The machine's out of control! It appears to be transmitting something!"

Silian Tian paled and ordered, "Investigate immediately!"

More technicians rushed over. Soon they discovered the cipher box contained an embedded program that infected host systems upon activation, utilizing available devices for signal transmission. Though we lacked satellites to trace directions, I deduced Silian's warning about potential annihilation was precisely this issue—perhaps aliens intentionally left behind these boxes knowing their discovery would trigger another invasion attempt.

Silian paled and admitted, "We've caused trouble! Aliens will likely locate us soon."

I reassured him, "Father-in-law, don't blame yourself. The 'deities' are already here through Fish People conflicts proving even without cipher boxes they recognize Twin Star life as a threat to their dominance. Our priority now is winning this planetary defense war."

Xiao Yu urged coalition with Dwarves since isolation would only invite defeat. Silian nodded—he already intended cooperation given the Fish People's role in his city's restoration. Ximen Yan questioned my confidence regarding Earth technology.

I responded, "Alien strength remains largely unknown to us. Without concrete intelligence, I can't guarantee victory but life itself cannot be eradicated even by superior beings. Currently our priority is accelerating technological development—I know many Earth weapon manufacturing methods which could rapidly develop if Fish People and Dwarves assist."

Silian insisted we weren't assisting but being assisted after witnessing my capabilities, requesting mediation between the two factions to defeat aliens.

Ximen Yan and Xiao Yu eagerly waited while I requested return to Twin Cities for urgent personal matters. Silian agreed to dispatch escorts though Xiao Yu scoffed at needing assistance against primitive surface dwellers.

Silian humorously noted Dwarves couldn't claim credit for Fish People's power, emphasizing his need to protect Ximen Yan just as Fish People protected Xiao Yu. Initially reluctant to carry burdens, Ximen Yan changed her mind seeing her father's intent to outmatch Xiao Yu's 500 warships with 500 tunnelers—though these appeared insignificant compared to the fleet.

Re-examining storage media revealed advanced tech and weaponry blueprints perplexing me since aliens designed them for distress signals yet included useful information. Perhaps they found human resistance uninteresting?

Time limited my review but some data surpassed Earth's integrated chip technology—though requiring strong industrial foundations beyond Fish People or Dwarves' current capabilities. Weapon designs appeared mostly decorative with few practical applications.

If Zhao Fen, Zhao Fang, Yixiao Rou, Xiaoyu Di, or Longnü were present they could better assist development though Ou Yang Qing managed commerce but lacked technical expertise. Among us, I possessed the most relevant knowledge.

Priorities included satellite warning systems and Twin Star spacecraft development—modifying Fish People's whale warships using Earth spaceship blueprints for simpler mass production of agile craft rather than large-scale efforts unlikely to surpass alien vessels.

Weaponry decisions focused on energy guns and cannons since Xiao Yu correctly identified their potential but lacked proper detonation triggers. With appropriate conditions, small energy projectiles could equal 10-megaton nuclear explosions while Fish People's infrastructure provided good foundations requiring only trigger development breakthroughs—achievable during my return trip to Twin Cities.

Twin City power struggles intensified with Pangu's dominance growing unchecked until Ma Da finally lost patience but couldn't act as Pangu swiftly seized control. Now Pangu commanded imperial guards and required authorization for executions.

At midnight, Princess Mawei's palace burned bright as plans neared execution—most forces already positioned in Central City awaiting outside officials' arrival for coordinated attacks and clean-up operations.

Ma Dada felt regal excitement envisioning Pangu's capture but laughed nervously when questioned by Xiao Rui. Mu Chen cautiously warned of Pangu's likely countermeasures given their heightened activities, while Cai Jingjing suggested seeking additional support.

Mawei hesitated fearing border invasions if forces were further diverted—though Kong Wu, Sun Chang, Liu Gang, Xiao Dingzi, and Cheng Qiang risked returning to aid the capital. Yunniao agreed no other options remained but all fell silent as Ma Dada's regal confidence wilted into resignation.

Later he excused himself to consult Gu Qi while teasing the women about his "royal" status before exiting their chambers—though Liling insisted on his staying since no one would object. Jokingly declining, he left for his distant residence avoiding night walks through dark inner city streets now haunted by fog and dim lanterns.

Suddenly alone after calling out his renamed guards (inspired by Bao Zheng stories), Ma Dada panicked at missing company when darkness engulfed him—something struck the back of his head causing unconsciousness.

After bathing, women extinguished lamps and climbed into beds. Liling and He Yuqing shared a bed where Liling subtly explored He's 37E curves despite her own small B-cup size. As they whispered about the Lord's whereabouts...

He Yuqing noted Liling's cuddling while explaining how she delegated Kill Dog Gang affairs to San Dangjia Xie Xiao who remained oblivious to her identity and pursued her relentlessly from afar.

Liling mused if Cloud Yao's dances might trigger memories since he loved them. He Yuqing speculated memory recovery was possible through Qing Qing or environmental stimuli, though doubting total amnesia given his strong attachments—especially recalling Su Su's physique and Qing Qing's signature scent.

Liling admitted secretly knowing about Cloud Yao's relationship with the Lord while acknowledging collective acceptance of his polyamorous nature despite finding it bizarre. He Yuqing sighed comfortingly as they reminisced about their early days when she first met Zhao Qian during university studies, naively agreeing to stay overnight at his apartment.

"Did nothing happen that night?" Liling teased, skeptical given the Lord's character...

Hu Yuqing ignored Linglong's "invasion" and said, "Back then my good friend Li Qi was completely obsessed with him. They shared intimate moments but hadn't engaged in sexual relations yet. He gave Li Qi many prehistoric treasures that shocked me deeply because they were products of a civilization far beyond ours. I asked Li Qi to introduce us through her connection. She claimed there were plenty more at his home, so he lured me into his house."

Linglong smiled and said, "Sister Yuqing, it was your own idea to take the bait, how can you call that being tricked?"

Hu Yuqing replied, "I did want to be taken in, but that night he never touched me. I ended up sleeping on the living room couch all night long. Just thinking about it makes me furious—I lost my self-confidence for a long time after and refused to acknowledge him. Later I accidentally lost one of his precious scepters and voluntarily sold myself as his secretary-slave in repayment, but even then he ignored me completely. In a fit of rage, I ran away with his wife Nana to start our own business. Unknowingly came to the Twin Stars where I suffered amnesia yet eventually won his affection."

Linglong asked, "Sister Yuqing, have you ever questioned Lord Zhao about why he showed no interest in you back then? Considering his nature, he would've taken advantage of that situation for sure. I heard Sister Li is into masochism," she giggled, "I once saw a video clip where her body was tortured so violently—it made me doubt if Lord Zhao might be some sort of serial killer with an extremely cruel heart."

Hu Yuqing said, "You don't understand. Initially when I saw Qi's injuries caused by Zhao Qian, I wanted to help punish him on Qi's behalf. But Qi actually enjoys that kind of pain—I can't force her preferences. Who knew now even myself has become... twisted," she sighed.

Linglong asked, "Sister Yuqing, what do you mean?"

Hu Yuqing continued, "Zhao Qian treats you so well. If he hadn't told you about our relationship after watching that video clip of Qi's, how could you know?"

Linglong shook her head and said, "I secretly watched the clip myself without telling Lord Zhao or other sisters. There are plenty more such files on his phone—would you like to see them too, Sister Yuqing?"

Hu Yuqing replied, "If he were here now I'd be thrilled to watch with great excitement, but today I simply lack any interest."

Linglong sighed and said, "Yes, the same for me. Nothing in life can stir up any enthusiasm anymore."

Continuing her story, Hu Yuqing said, "Actually not long ago I asked Zhao Qian why he had let me go that night. You know what his answer was? He claimed it's because of having too many wives already and wanted to avoid being branded as a womanizer. For him to possess someone she must make the first move. Sounds reasonable enough until on Twin Stars I accidentally ingested something and finally took initiative myself, only for this action to have corrupted me."

Linglong inquired confusedly, "What do you mean by corruption?"

Hu Yuqing said, "Now Zhao Qian refuses all physical contact with me. He always insists women use their mouths on certain parts of him. It's so annoying, yet I can't escape this craving—he'll drive me insane if he doesn't satisfy this addiction like a morphine withdrawal. Linglong, am I really that cheap and twisted?"

Linglong reassured her, "No, Sister Yuqing! Lord Zhao appreciates each wife for their unique qualities. What you do is probably exactly what pleases him... Please don't discuss such things with me—I'm too young to understand these matters!"

Hu Yuqing laughed slyly, "Really? Don't try telling me absolutely nothing ever happened between you and Zhao Qian—nobody believes that nonsense."

Linglong hesitated, "O-only once we were in water... I also orally pleasured him there. Sister Yuqing, are you angry?"

"Angry?" Hu Yuqing said, "With so many of us competing for his attention, how could we afford to be jealous? You know better than anyone else about my recent intimate interactions with Zhao Qian—Linglong, you must help me."

Linglong protested, "Me! Sister Yuqing you're overestimating me. After all, you and I are from Zhou Planet with our much longer history of contact. If anyone needs assistance it's definitely me who requires your guidance!"

Hu Yuqing insisted, "Don't be modest. I know Zhao Qian dotes on you—being close to him daily, you must understand his preferences perfectly well."

"This?" Linglong thought before saying, "Actually I want to know myself too. But from my observations he's already bored with ordinary intimate activities. For instance we all know about the irregular relationship between him and Ma Xiaowei, yet Ma is still a virgin—think carefully why this happens. He not only wants women using their mouths but probably exploits other parts as well."

Hu Yuqing blushed and said, "Pervert! Yet discussing such things with each other sounds equally perverse. As long as he returns I'll know exactly how to handle it."

Linglong yawned suddenly and said, "Why did my sleepiness intensify so quickly? Sister Yuqing let me snuggle up against you—I want to hold you from behind!"

Hu Yuqing knew precisely what Linglong wanted. Her hand had never left her chest area yet she didn't refuse. Turning sideways onto the bed allowed Linglong to embrace her from behind, and soon overwhelming drowsiness overtook Hu Yuqing who drifted off into a hazy slumber...

Ma Xiaowei shared a bed with her younger sister Ma Xiaorui. Neither could sleep at first, discussing their man in whispers while imagining how to please him upon his return. Suddenly both felt an inexplicable surge of fatigue and fell asleep together as well. A faint smoke drifted through the room before shadows appeared carrying away the two women wrapped in blankets...

The next morning a shocking incident erupted inside the palace city—the princess, crown prince along with several Lady Zhao's wives had vanished overnight! Imperial guards outside the princess's chambers remained oblivious to their disappearance. Even the night patrols from the Royal Guards didn't notice anything suspicious as if these people had simply evaporated into thin air. The news sent a tremor through both cities...

At morning court session Emperor Mada wore an expression of deep gloom, not because he wanted to rage but due to the sudden removal proposal by Pong Hu—the immediate dissolution of Left/Right Chancellor positions in favor of establishing a Prime Minister's office overseeing all government affairs. Pong Hu declared solemnly: "Your Majesty knows well how deeply moved I am about these palace affairs preventing you from attending court matters, yet the border crisis remains dire with common folk living under unbearable suffering. Land reform is imperative but must begin by correcting higher authorities first! Currently our imperial court resembles a pile of broken sand—fragmented power and divided loyalties especially evident in those two ineffective Chancellors representing disaster for our Twin Cities. Failing this crucial juncture will doom us to national annihilation!"

Left Chancellor Luo Cheng stepped forward pointing at Pong Hu's nose and screamed, "Traitor! Everyone knows your conspiracy to seize imperial power yet you still dare reverse the blame! We have done nothing? You have done nothing for our empire either. We remain ineffective because the court remains under your grip! Your Majesty I'm risking my life today by requesting a decree stripping Pong Hu of his Grand Tutor title followed immediately by binding him and executing publicly at Western Gate!"

Mada's face darkened. He chose not to respond since he knew even if decreed no one would obey—doing so only caused embarrassment especially with the crown prince and princesses missing simultaneously, such an absurd situation indicating their enemies completely disregarded palace defenses. They could come or go whenever they pleased; taking his life must be child's play?

Ruo Cheng was cornered now. Originally both Chancellors' powers had already been neutralized when suddenly the leading figure of Crown Prince faction disappeared (some believed he dead). With this, Pong Hu's influence rapidly expanded leading to today's attempt at eliminating both Chancellor positions. Though both sides were essentially doomed in this confrontation, the Chancellor faction could only show verbal strength since they lacked any actual fighting force to resist Pong Hu—essentially just committing suicide.

Right Chancellor Niu Nai also stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty please issue an order to exterminate these traitors or our empire will never know peace again! This dog desires monopolizing Twin Cities' wealth entirely for himself. If following his plan common folk won't receive even a single inch of land—eventually we'll starve to death no matter who!"

Originally there were several more members in the Chancellor faction, but with current circumstances clearly displayed nobody dared speak up anymore. Meanwhile the sudden disappearance of Crown Prince caused some loyal followers to retreat silently from their positions as well. Complete silence descended over court with neither side responding to the Chancellors' plea... Pong Hu laughed heartily at this scene!

"Your Majesty, my entire life has been dedicated serving Twin Cities yet now I'm burdened with such a name? You often say you should listen more to common voices and those of officials. Now ask these gathered ministers—does any person dare utter even one 'no' against me Pong Hu? These two villains have the gall to accuse my noble efforts! Soldiers! Bind both Chancellors and execute them immediately at Western Gate! Anyone daring hinder me in serving our nation shall be executed instantly!"

A horde of Royal Guards stormed into Wenchengwude Hall dragging up both Chancellors. They completely ignored Emperor Mada on the throne as Pong Hu's earlier veiled threats had already made it clear—no one could utter opposition to him, not even the emperor himself without facing dire consequences!

Both Chancellors screamed desperately, "Your Majesty! Don't hesitate further! These villains block your path—cut them down decisively now before they turn their attentions toward you tomorrow! Your Majesty issue decree immediately or our empire is doomed!"

Mada understood these two Chancellors were the final pillars resisting Pong Hu's faction. Once toppled, no one would dare utter a single word against Pong Hu in court anymore, rendering him entirely powerless as emperor. Mada had always suspected something about Crown Prince disappearance and now faced Pong Hu's aggressive demands. Though he knew this was not a time for rash actions, still could not suppress his anger and slammed the table shouting:

"Stop! I am Emperor or are you Pong Hu the Emperor? Without my authorization no one can order executions!"

Mada's sudden outburst stunned the Royal Guards who hesitated mid-step. They glanced toward Pong Hu awaiting next instructions while both Chancellors beamed with hope—the emperor had finally spoken up! Yet Pong Hu showed absolutely no fear, coldly stating: "Your Majesty, are you going to ignore your ministers' voices? Citizens, should these two Chancellors live or die? They wasted the country's expectations occupying positions without fulfilling duties while constantly obstructing my new policies. Their crimes deserve death!"

Most of court officials belonged to Pong Hu's faction who immediately echoed approval: "They must die! They must die! If Majesty refuses listening to our loyal advice, Grand Tutor should assume authority on your behalf by right!"

Pong Hu addressed Mada and said, "Your Majesty you see now—this is what the people desire. If I can find a single dissenter perhaps I could plead for their lives... But would anyone actually agree to spare them?"

Mada looked down at courtiers who all recoiled backward lowering their heads in silence. Pong Hu stroked his white beard smugly and said, "Your Majesty if this is what the people demand we must execute it fully. Otherwise how could you remain a wise ruler? Without wisdom, why would anyone bother serving an idiot emperor anymore? Royal Guards listen up! Execute immediately—anyone obstructing shall be killed!"

Mada's anger nearly made him faint as he shouted, "Pong Hu! Don't think I'm afraid of you. I am the true chosen emperor and not some petty Grand Tutor who dares defy imperial orders! Release those women now or don't expect me to show mercy!"

Pong Hu laughed and said, "Your Majesty, it's surprising to see you get angry after all these years? Did ruling Twin Cities for so long finally wear you out? Return to the harem to rest. Leave matters here under my capable hands. Rest assured with me in charge our empire will be even more prosperous than under your reign!"

Mada trembled and said, "You—you—"

Pong Hu continued, "What is it? Your Majesty must've been overworking governing affairs. Guards! Take Emperor back to the harem—no need for him wandering around aimlessly anymore causing harm to himself or our empire."

Everyone silently watched Mada's humiliation with even palace attendants daring not utter a word. Pong Hu had finally made his move, advancing earlier than planned as everything now lay within his complete control. With Emperor confined he would become the de facto ruler achieving his coup without bloodshed.

Mada was reaping what he sowed—the bitter fruit of years spent passively tolerating abuses. Now too late to regret anything, completely powerless against Pong Hu's old man force. He closed eyes in resignation—how quickly things had changed? Regretted not listening to his son before and revoking loyal ministers for fear of gossip. Now ensnared by this villain he probably didn't have long left...

At that moment palace attendants suddenly screamed with great volume: "Minister Liu from Pingyuan/Redping Counties, Commander Cheng (First Army), Acting Commander Lin (Second Army), Commander Ding (Third Army) jointly request an audience with the Emperor!"

Both Pong Hu and Mada were stunned—how did these men get here? They should've been enjoying their territories. Moreover city gates had long been sealed to check all incoming visitors. How could they possibly bypass security... Yet Mada's heart leapt—he knew these men were loyal to Crown Prince, each commanding significant military forces. If they stood against Pong Hu there was still hope of turning the situation around!

Pong Hu hesitated whether to grant audience fearing potential surprises if yes or uncertainty about their strength if no. Just as he deliberated Mada had already returned to his throne and declared: "Grant the audience!"

Palace attendants heard but refused action instead directing glances toward Pong Hu who said, "Your Majesty this matter should be handled by old servant. You're exhausted—returning to harem for rest is more appropriate."

Mada coldly replied, "Pong Hu do you think controlling Royal Guards grants you unrestricted power? Once Zhao Qian returns you'll be groveling at his feet begging forgiveness. If you stop now I might spare your life otherwise don't expect me to show mercy!"

Pong Hu laughed and said, "Your Majesty isn't this statement absurd? If Zhao Qian can return would he wait until today? He couldn't even protect his own wives—how dare he demand my submission? Even if he returns it will be him begging forgiveness from me. Besides he's already dead for sure! Don't dream anymore!"

Suddenly fighting noises erupted outside followed by several Royal Guards and eunuchs crashing into the hall. Pong Hu's face darkened as those requesting audience stood at palace doors, while urgent alarm cries echoed through corridors. Soon a hundred-man squad stormed in encircling newcomers with blades...

Liu Gang, Ding Zi, Cheng Qiang, Lin Gu were all military men who refused intimidation by mere Royal Guards. Liu had initially been county magistrate but due to war-related shortages simultaneously managed two counties as acting administrator. Ding remained Third Army Commander while Cheng ascended from First Army Deputy to Commander post. Lin still served in Lakeyang as civilian official yet transferred temporarily to Second Army for Jin Country border duties...

"Your Majesty," four men marched forward ignoring Royal Guards' arrows, "we heard you were about to execute both Chancellors and

The situation had spiraled completely out of control until the crowd finally dispersed and silence fell. Only Emperor Mata, the two chancellors and the loyalist forces remained in the hall—over three hundred men who'd been secretly airlifted into the inner city ahead of time as a reserve force. Another contingent still waited outside the middle and outer cities under General Sun Zhɑng's command, but coordination proved difficult with such hasty mobilization.

Mata asked, "How did you loyal ministers arrive just in time to save me from this crisis?"

Lin Guo replied grimly, "Your Majesty, I fear the unrest is only beginning. Pong Hu has vanished into thin air. Even if he hadn't escaped, capturing him would be impossible with his formidable underlings. We suspect last night's disappearance of Crown Prince and Princess along with their attendants was his doing. To smuggle so many people past palace guards undetected takes remarkable capability."

Mata slumped visibly, "So we still have no hope of victory?"

Liu Gang countered firmly, "Sire, you must first restore your confidence. We were actually ordered by the Crown Prince to infiltrate the inner city for this very contingency. When His Highness and the Princess disappeared last night, we decided together to take position at Wencheng Wude Hall just as Pong Hu launched his attack."

Mata waved resignedly, "If you all ask my opinion..."

Gu Qi interrupted, "As planned, tonight should see our final strike against Pong Hu with coordinated efforts from the Eastern Factory and Imperial Horse Guards. But now that both the Crown Prince and princesses are missing..."

Lin Guo stood abruptly, "We must remain calm! Alert palace guards to bring all royal family members to Wencheng Wude Hall immediately. With combined forces of around a thousand men here, we can hold out until reinforcements from the Eastern Factory arrive."

Gu Qi voiced his concern, "But if Crown Prince and princesses are taken hostage by Pong Hu..."

Lin Guo sighed heavily, "We must take it one step at a time now. I've already assessed the inner city's terrain—Wencheng Wude Hall is our best defensive position. Divide forces to occupy those three access routes leading here!"

The palace guards moved swiftly under Gu Fei's command. Soon an entourage of empresses, consorts and other nobles crowded into the hall with their attendants.

Carved directly from mountain rock at the highest point in Twin Cities, Wencheng Wude Hall was naturally defensible except for those three main thoroughfares—the central route used by chancellors and dignitaries like Pong Hu, a secondary right-side passage for mid-ranking officials, and a servant's left path.

Lin Guo took stock of their forces: 300 palace guards, over 300 additional loyalist troops from various sectors including Cheng Qiang's men, plus dozens of S's private soldiers with twenty laser rifles—deadly weapons without ammunition limitations.

Pong Hu's faction controlled the city gates and outer walls where his reinforcements would strike soon. The palace guards had only limited bullets while Pong Hu had already stockpiled his own arsenal from the Horse Guards.

The remaining irregular forces wielded all manner of weaponry—from swords to crossbows—though they might not match even basic Imperial Guard efficiency. Their survival depended entirely on when Sun Zhɑng's men could recapture the Horse Guards and Eastern Factory.

Their original plan had relied on seizing three other spacecraft last night using their pilots who'd mysteriously vanished. Now they faced a desperate race against time—if Wencheng Hall fell before reinforcements arrived, it would be total defeat. But if they could hold out until Sun Zhɑng secured both cities... the coup's ambitions might yet crumble entirely.