Having reviewed the intelligence from the secret box, I outlined my concepts to Ximen Tian. However, this future father-in-law knew little of technology; it was Xiao Yu'er who became intensely interested. The few ideas I presented excited her so much that she insisted we return immediately to implement them—for instance, building the Gemini satellite system and boosting the explosive power of energy projectiles.

Glancing at the time, I saw that lunch had long passed. "We've wasted enough time. Since we now know the cause and effect behind the Creator God, let's set off at once."

Ximen Tian replied, "Zhao Qian, we Dwarves have been waiting for you to return soon and take charge of the overall situation. If you weren't in such a hurry to leave, you could have stayed for lunch."

Ximen Yan reassured him, "Father, don't worry. I'll be here. As soon as the matter of the Twin Cities is settled, we'll return. We can just eat on the road."

Xiao Yu'er pouted to the side. Though she said nothing, she had firmly decided: whoever proved most capable would secure the assistance. Were the Dwarves the only ones in need? The Fish People had made their request first.

The existing exit from the underground city was unsuitable for the Air Bladder Chariots. We returned the way we came. Ouyang Qian asked me, "Zhao Qian, should we take the underground corridor or travel through the air? We don't know where the next exit of the corridor leads, but if we go overhead now, we might not be able to conceal our tracks."

I declared firmly, "We go through the air. What's there to conceal now? With the planetary war about to erupt, why be so cautious? The sooner I return to the Twin Cities, the sooner I can relax. I have a faint feeling that something is about to happen."

The mighty host marched towards the Twin Cities. Not to mention the gawking and exclamations of the common folk on the ground, when we reached the border of the Twin Cities, we saw smoke rising in the distance. I knew things were likely amiss, so without even exchanging a greeting, I leaped into the air and flew towards the cities.

At this moment, I wouldn't hesitate even if it drained all my energy. The city was alight with battle everywhere. If the Jin people hadn't attacked early, then something else must have happened. I still retained some memories of the Twin Cities; although that blow caused me to occasionally lose recollections, I remembered most things.

From the air, it was impossible to distinguish the specifics of who was fighting whom on the various battlefields. I couldn't concern myself with those matters. I landed directly at the Zhao Estate, but aside from a few Imperial Guards, there was no trace of the women. Questioning a few of the guards revealed that Pang Hu had rebelled and was currently attacking the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue. The women were imprisoned in the inner city; the guards, having not left the estate for days, did not know the precise current situation.

I had never imagined so much could happen after my departure. In a fit of rage, I struck down the guards with a few punches and channeled all my energy to fly towards the inner city. The scene before the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue stunned me. Half the hall had collapsed, and the Imperial Guards outside stood ready with siege engines, cannons, and other weapons arrayed before them.

To think the weapons I created were being used against my own people! Perhaps I truly should have eliminated Pang Hu entirely before. Now, being bitten back like this—if anything happened to the women, I felt I had no reason to live. Every single one was the flesh of my heart; even the slightest injury to a single hair would grieve me for half a day, especially since I promised them that once they became my wives, I would protect their safety. Now... Pang Hu! If I don't tear him to pieces, my surname won't be Zhao!

Several Imperial Guards, while moving fallen rubble, shouted, "Hurry up, the path is clear! There are people inside! Cut off their heads and claim your reward from the Grand Tutor!"

I surmised they were trapped in the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue. I instantly descended from the air, coming face-to-face with an Imperial Guard. I swiftly snatched his Xiuchun Saber and, swish, cleaved him in two. More Imperial Guards were startled by my sudden appearance and shouted as they surrounded me.

I couldn't afford a fight. I reactivated my energy shield and charged toward the collapsed doorway. The energy from the shield was immensely powerful, instantly melting the stones blocking the entrance. The sight before me shocked me even more: Ma Xiaowei lay on the ground with her neck heavily bandaged, and Ma Xiaorui was raising a saber, about to take her own life!

I kicked the saber from Ma Xiaorui's hand just as the Imperial Guards outside rushed in. With no time for explanations, a surge of rage overtook me. I turned and unleashed an energy burst like rolling thunder. A massive energy mass shot out, sweeping away the rubble in front of me along with the rushing guards. The square before the hall instantly fell silent.

"Brother-in-law!" Ma Xiaorui cried out, her voice filled with sorrow and tears already filling her eyes.

"Xiaorui," I knelt beside her, "What happened to your sister?"

Ma Xiaorui threw herself into my embrace, sobbing uncontrollably, unable to speak. Ma Xiaoda approached and patted my shoulder, "Zhao Qian, I knew you wouldn't be harmed. We've finally waited for you. Now things are right; we need to teach them a severe lesson."

Hearing my voice, Ma Xiaowei opened her eyes with the brief resurgence of life seen near death. "Zhao Qian! Is that really you? Am I dreaming, or have we reached paradise?"

I said, "You aren't dreaming. I'm sorry, Xiaowei, I came late, and I made you suffer. Where are they? How did you get hurt?"

Tears streamed down Ma Xiaowei's face. "The sisters were captured by Pang Hu. They must be locked in the dungeon beneath the Pang Estate, Zhao Qian! Hurry and save them!"

It had happened after all! I couldn't describe the fury in my heart at that moment. If Pang Hu stood before me, I would grind him to dust, though perhaps even that wouldn't quell my hatred. I felt like digging up the skeletons of his entire lineage for a hundred generations and whipping them.

"Lord Zhao, we knew your luck was boundless and that you wouldn't come to harm. It is wonderful to see you now!" The ones speaking were Lin Gu, Liu Gang, Xiao Dingzi, Cheng Qiang, and the others. Gu Fei's body, large as a small mountain, was also slick with blood, indicating how fierce the preceding battle had been.

Even without their explanation, I could guess. They had come to rescue the royal family. I didn't know the specifics of the process, but I knew they were my friends. If Ma Xiaoda and the women were in trouble, they certainly wouldn't stand idly by. Based on the scene, they had been losing ground, but thankfully, none had lost their lives.

I stood up. "Thank you all. Protect the Princess and the others for me; I'm going to find Pang Hu!"

Ma Xiaowei suddenly reached out and grabbed me. "No, Zhao Qian! If you rush off to Pang Hu like this, you might fall into his trap. The sisters are still under his control."

Ma Da came over then. "Esteemed Minister Zhao, your safe return is a great fortune for the nation. Saving them is certainly necessary, but we must devise a safe method. That Pang dog has countless capable men around him. If you are careless and injure your wives, the trouble will be immense."

I was not merely brave but also strategic. After a moment's thought, I understood the risks. We didn't know the location of the prison. If I went there directly demanding their release, it was easy to imagine how Pang Hu would use the women. It was better to resolve the situation here first, wait for Ximen Yan to arrive with her reinforcements, and then I wouldn't believe we couldn't find the dungeon. We could sneak in to rescue them, act without reservation, and that would be Pang Hu's death warrant!

"Commander Cheng!" I shouted.

Cheng Qiang stood at attention and snapped a military salute. These men had followed me on the campaign to suppress bandits in Huyang and understood some of my methods. "Yes!"

"Immediately go outside, assess the surrounding situation, and report back to me at once."

Cheng Qiang turned and ran out of the hall. I said to Lin Gu, "Minister Lin, please tell me how things transpired."

In truth, Lin Gu didn't need to explain much; Ma Xiaoda chattered the whole story quickly. Just then, Cheng Qiang ran back. He reported, "Sir, the Imperial Guards outside are reorganizing their formation and are likely preparing for another charge. We currently have thirteen fighters, which, including us, amounts to less than twenty combat-ready individuals."

I wasn't worried about that. I asked Cheng Qiang, "How much do you know about the fighting in other parts of the city?"

Cheng Qiang replied, "Reporting, Sir. I climbed to a high place just now to get a better look. Commanders Kong Wu and Sun Sheng are leading our forces who infiltrated the central city, engaging in fierce battle with a unit of Imperial Guards. They are being attacked from both sides by the Directorate of Eastern Depot agents and should soon eliminate the enemy. Another group of Eastern Depot agents is attacking the west gate of the inner city, but the fighting doesn't look optimistic. Furthermore, the Imperial Stable and the Imperial Guards defending the outer city have merged their forces, and they are assaulting the south gate of the central city, though from afar, it seems they have achieved little success."

Ma Da was beside me. Regardless, he was the Emperor, so I saluted him. "Your Majesty, this humble servant dares to take command of this battle. Please grant your approval."

Before Ma Da could speak, Ma Xiaoda stepped forward and pulled me, "Zhao Qian, what time is it for all this formality? Hurry up and kill Pang Hu! Show everyone your most formidable skills! Let the world see how awe-inspiring my brother-in-law is!"

Blood was still seeping from the bandage on Ma Xiaowei's neck, but her heart felt sweeter than drinking honey. Who wouldn't want her man to possess world-supporting abilities? The thought of one person turning the tide could excite a girl for several years.

I said to Lin Gu, "Commander Lin, please take your men to protect His Majesty and the Crown Prince. I will handle matters outside."

As I exited the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue, Ma Xiaoda and the others were unwilling to be left behind and followed. Lin Gu couldn't dissuade them and had to let it be. Just then, the Imperial Guards I had scattered with stones reformed their ranks, numbering over three thousand, shouting as they charged up the three stone steps.

In the distance, the siege engines began their creaking work again, and the rows of iron arrow launchers were loaded. Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh—waves of arrows tore through the air, shooting towards us like a dense rain. Lin Gu shouted and pressed Ma Xiaoda and Ma Da to the ground.

My heart pounded like a war drum, delivering immense pressure. Blood was pumped from my ventricles to my limbs. Suddenly, I felt a sense of detachment again. The energy around me surged to an unbelievable level. Every blade of grass, every bird, every insect seemed to be within my grasp, and even the arrow rain descending from the sky had to obey my command. As a thought flowed through my mind, streams of powerful energy enveloped the rain of arrows. The projectiles froze mid-air, then their direction reversed, shooting back toward the Imperial Guard formation at a speed a hundred times fiercer than before.

Boom! Boom! Boom! The sound was brutally final. Many Imperial Guards hiding behind the launchers could not escape, as the iron arrows seemed enchanted; they pierced even inch-thick iron plates. Hundreds of launchers were instantly wrecked, and thousands of operators perished.

Ma Xiaoda scrambled up from the ground, staring at the distant firing area in disbelief. "Brother-in-law, you are too terrifying! Is this—is this still you?"

At this moment, perhaps I was not entirely myself, but I was clearly still me; only my state of mind had become somewhat abnormal, causing a feeling of distortion. I ignored Ma Xiaoda's shock, focusing only on destroying them all. To touch my women meant only one outcome: death!

The catapults finished loading. Whoosh—a massive boulder sailed through the air with a whistling sound, its trajectory aimed directly at the small square before the hall. Lin Gu dared not be careless. He scooped up Ma Da and ran into the hall. The remaining half of the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue was deeply embedded in the mountain, so even if the boulder struck the peak, it wouldn't collapse instantly. That was the best sanctuary.

Cheng Qiang tried to rush over and grab Ma Xiaoda, but Ma Xiaoda stubbornly remained behind me, firmly believing he would be safe. My energy had indeed reached an unprecedented peak, and all my organs were in a subtle state. The faces and voices of every person in the Twin Cities seemed to be imprinted in my mind.

I released an energy mass to meet the boulder. The massive stone was forcibly halted in mid-air. Many Imperial Guards attacking midway looked up, saw the scene, and collapsed in terror. If the rock suddenly fell, they would be turned into meat paste! However, the stone did not fall. Instead, it flew toward the south gate of the central city, where the Imperial Stable horse guards were locked in fierce combat with the gate-guarding Imperial Guards. Since the attackers were at a geographical disadvantage, the horse guards were suffering heavy casualties. The giant stone suddenly descended from above, landing precisely on the city gate tower. Boom! The entire tower and a section of the wall collapsed. The horse guards, seeing this, shouted and charged into the inner city through the breach.

Ma Xiaoda jumped three feet in the air: "Incredible!"

Under the command of their Centurions, the Imperial Guards drew their blades and guns and charged onto the square before the hall. I broke into a run toward the crowd, snatching a blade from an Imperial Guard's waist as I went. At this moment, their speed was negligible to my eyes. With a few swings, I reaped a pile of heads. Before the blood could even spray from the necks, I retreated. Instantly, the ground was littered with corpses—a sight that would likely make even the iron-hearted vomit.

This carnage terrified the subsequent wave of charging Imperial Guards. They turned and fled. Even being beheaded by their Centurions would not make them return to witness such a scene. One person's flight affected the morale of ten, then a hundred men. The Imperial Guards attacking the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue instantly broke ranks.

Ma Xiaoda was vomiting to the side when the light above his head suddenly darkened. He looked up and was nearly paralyzed with fright. He hurriedly tugged at me, "Brother-in-law, look at the sky! Something strange is flying over!"

I said, "Don't be afraid, they are our people."

The Hall of Civil and Military Virtue was in a very conspicuous location. Standing in the square before the hall, one could look down upon half the Twin Cities. Whether viewed from the air or underground, this spot would be the first thing noticed. Presumably, my commanding stance in the square was spotted by Xiao Yu'er. Several chariots descended before us, and Ouyang Qian rushed out quickly.

"Zhao Qian, what happened here? Has the Myriad Horse Kingdom attacked again?"

I said, "Don't ask. Where is Xiao Yu'er?"

Ouyang Qian replied, "She and Ximen Yan stayed in the chariot; they said it was inconvenient to move around. They don't recognize most of the people here and didn't want to cause you trouble."

I said, "Ask her to do me a favor: open the city gates of the inner two cities completely, excluding the outer wall. The situation is chaotic now, and it's hard to tell friend from foe. Don't let the Fish People join the fight for the time being. Also, tell Ximen Yan to bring five hundred Diamond Saber Troops down; I have a mission for her. Susu, Qingqing, and the others have been captured."

"Ah!" Ouyang Qian exclaimed but asked no further questions, turning back into the flying vessel.

Ma Xiaorui tugged at the corner of my robe from behind. "Brother-in-law, is she Ouyang Qing? She really is a siren, much more enchanting than my sister and me."

I stroked Ma Xiaorui's hair. "Let's go inside. Don't let the sight of so many dead bodies outside frighten you."

Ma Xiaorui linked her arm with mine, innocently saying, "I'm not afraid of anything when you're here."

Ouyang Qian quickly relayed the message to Xiao Yu'er. Xiao Yu'er transmitted the orders through the chariot's communication system. The chariots acted swiftly; thirty to fifty surrounded a single gate. After a burst of poisonous mist, a large section of both the gate tower and the wall vanished. The defenders had no cover left, and the attackers rapidly pushed inward.

Ximen Yan soon gathered five hundred saber troops. Seeing the group of short figures standing in the square, they were all stunned. I pointed toward the Pang Estate and said to Ximen Yan, "My other wives are imprisoned there. Can you help me rescue them? The action needs to be as covert as possible because I fear Pang Hu might take them hostage in desperation. This task is perfect for you. Once those few are rescued, I can move against Pang Hu without reservation."

Ximen Yan nodded. "Don't worry. We will sneak in to ascertain the situation before acting. We definitely won't let anyone discover us."

The Pang Estate had descended into chaos. The composure they held in the central command tent was entirely gone. Pang Hu repeatedly demanded updates on the battle outside. First came the good news: the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue was taken; half the hall was down, and those inside would either be dead or ready to be captured. But suddenly, someone rushed in to report that the area before the Hall was engulfed in flying debris, and all the Imperial Guards stationed there were killed.

That wasn't the worst news. Soon, more reports arrived: the iron arrows aimed at the Hall suddenly changed direction, killing all their own archers, and the boulder thrown at the hall seemed possessed, flying backward and smashing the south gate of the central city, causing it to collapse. The outer city Imperial Guards and the horse guards had broken into the central city and were now fighting the Imperial Guards surrounding the Pang Estate.

Worse news followed: the Imperial Guards attacking the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue had completely routed, and the leading Commander of the Guards could no longer control the situation. Strange, elongated objects had appeared in the sky. Many Imperial Guards thought it was divine retribution, threw down their weapons, and gave up resistance. Moreover, in the time it took to drink a cup of tea, all the gates of the two inner cities were destroyed. Those flying divine objects spat out smoke, and anything that entered the mist vanished.

No one knew how to salvage the situation at this point; cold sweat beaded on everyone's face. They were engaged in treason, a capital offense. If they succeeded, they would be founding heroes; if they failed, their entire clans would be annihilated. The situation had been overwhelmingly favorable; by eliminating the Left and Right Chancellors, the court would have no strength left to oppose the Pang faction, and the matter could likely be settled without bloodshed. But who knew that some outside generals would suddenly appear and lead troops to the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue, ruining their plans?

If it were only them, they could mobilize troops quickly to wipe them out. But then the Eastern Depot and the Imperial Stable had successive incidents. Although troops had been stationed to guard these two bureaus beforehand, they failed to hold them, allowing those four individuals to regain military authority and swiftly dispatch reinforcements to the inner city.

Even that might have been manageable; Pang Hu only needed to secure the four central city gates and quickly resolve the situation in the inner city. If the attackers failed to break through and the overall situation was settled, they would naturally disperse. But now, the Hall of Civil and Military Virtue in the inner city had not been taken, the Emperor and Crown Prince were alive, all eight city gates were lost, and the forces of the Outer City Imperial Guards, the Eastern Depot, and the Imperial Stable had merged. Once they secured the inner city, they would certainly march to attack the Pang Estate, resulting in nothing but dust and ash for Pang Hu.

"Grand Tutor, perhaps we should retreat through the secret passage," asked Xia Jian, the Minister of Rites, wiping cold sweat from his brow.

Qi Yu, the Minister of Works, agreed, "Yes, Grand Tutor. As long as the green hills remain, there will be firewood to burn. The Emperor seems to have divine assistance from somewhere, summoning those flying monsters. We are no match for them. If we delay further, and their combined forces move against us, we'll have nowhere to run."

Pang Hu roared in fury and slapped both men a few times. "Damn it! You were the ones who told me to use the Crown Prince and the Princess to threaten Ma Da! Now you advise me to flee? If we hadn't given up the Crown Prince and the Princess, what would we fear now? As long as Ma Da is a man, he must care about his children's safety! Now look—they have no more reservations, and my entire plan is ruined."

Wan Licai stepped forward. "Godfather, please control your anger. Our plan was foolproof, but the variables that arose were too great—like those monsters in the sky. I suspect this might be related to Zhao Ma Guan, because only he could conjure things that fly. If we are defeated by him, we can at least claim to have lost honorably."

Pang Hu’s whiskers bristled with rage. "This isn't about saving face anymore! If the coup fails, how can we establish ourselves in the future? You tell me!"

No one spoke, but Wan Licai's words did remind Pang Hu. He continued, "Could that Zhao Ma Guan really have returned from the dead? It seems those women can be useful. The Crown Prince and the others escaped back; they must know the location of the dungeon. Immediately send men to transfer those women to a new holding location! Make sure they don't come into contact with the surface, not like last time when the enemy burrowed in and rescued them!"

As twilight descended, the battle in the twin cities momentarily paused. The rebel Imperial Guards loyal to Pang Hu were pinned down, over thirty thousand of them confined to the buildings surrounding the Pang Manor—a sprawling estate whose high, thick walls rivaled those of a small fortress, making it difficult to assault. The loyalist forces arrayed outside hesitated to attack, as the high command held back the final command.

Order was gradually restored in the inner city; all rebel Imperial Guards there had been slain. Mada and Ma Xiaoda temporarily set up an office in the Changqing Hall, which was originally the Emperor's resting place. Few officials were present; most had sided with Pang Hu and were now hiding somewhere, their hearts pounding with anxiety.

Silence fell upon the group as all eyes turned to me. I was anxiously awaiting news from Ximen Yan. I absolutely would not permit an assault on the Pang Manor until the women were rescued. If Pang Hu, in a desperate move, harmed them, I would regret it eternally. I knew I would agree even if Pang Hu demanded his own freedom in exchange for their lives.

The Left and Right Chancellors summoned a few still-loyal officials, but they offered little practical help, only urging the Emperor to press the advantage and eradicate the Pang faction entirely. Ma Xiaowei cautioned them, "Gentlemen, please remain calm. Princess Ximen, who went to the rescue, will bring news soon. We must confirm the hostages' safety before launching an attack, otherwise, we risk being manipulated by Pang Hu."

One official ventured, "Your Majesty, what if Pang Hu truly uses Madam Zhao as leverage? Releasing a tiger is easy, but recapturing him will be difficult. It might only lead to more bloodshed for the nation."

I dismissed the concern with a wave of my hand. "Let him do as he wishes. As long as they are safe, that is all that matters."

The official immediately retorted, "How can that be? Wouldn't we be led around by the nose by a rebel?"

Seeing his father’s expression waver, Ma Xiaoda stepped forward and sharply rebuked the official, "How can you be so foolish? To sacrifice the safety of several innocent women for the sake of seizing a momentary advantage? Do you not understand the importance of these ladies to Lord Zhao? If anything happens to them, how can we possibly expect him to fight for the realm with a clear mind?"

The official dared not speak again after the Crown Prince’s outburst. He glanced at Mada, who considered the situation but chose to ignore him. The faces of the Left and Right Chancellors also grew uneasy. Of course, they did not agree with halting the pursuit while victory was at hand. A coordinated assault by the combined armies might have seen Pang Hu dead in an instant, ushering in eternal peace. However, they dared not speak now, for they knew the man pacing nearby cherished beauty above sovereignty. If they angered him and he abandoned the twin cities, the entire situation might reverse.

Finally, Ximen Yan flew back to report, "Zhao Qian, we infiltrated Pang Manor through an underground passage, but we couldn't find the sisters in the location Princess Xiao Rui and His Highness the Crown Prince indicated. Pang Hu must have moved them. What do we do now?"

A chill ran down my spine. "What else can we do? If Pang Hu has realized our intentions, we must wait for him to make the first move. I only hope he doesn't know I have returned; otherwise, the safety of those women is even more precarious."

Mada could no longer hold back. "Lord Zhao, you mean we should halt all action and wait for Pang Hu to present his exchange terms?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," I confirmed. "I hope Your Majesty will prioritize the safety of my wives. As long as they are unharmed, I guarantee I will repay Your Majesty’s consideration. By then, snatching the dog’s life from Pang Hu will be as easy as turning over my hand."

Mada replied, "Lord Zhao, what are you saying? Between us, there is no talk of repayment. If anything, I should be repaying you. We will proceed entirely according to your wishes. Even if it means exchanging that scoundrel’s life for your wives, I agree. After all, we failed to ensure their safety; I have failed in my trust to you."

Mada’s stance this time was quite noble, and both Ma Xiaoda and I were satisfied with his performance.

Given the skills of Linglong and Yun Yao, they should not have failed to escape. Their situation must be dire. But for now, all we could do was wait, or perhaps send someone to persuade Pang Hu to surrender, if only to ascertain his demands. It was impossible for me to go; Pang Hu seeing me alive would only cause him to make further trouble regarding the women. Who then should be sent?

Before I could settle on a choice, someone emerged from Pang Manor carrying a letter. The Imperial Guards brought the messenger directly before Mada. The man was bold, showing no fear toward Mada. After kneeling respectfully, he presented Pang Hu's letter.

Mada read it briefly and then dismissed the messenger for the time being. To maintain my hidden status, I had retreated behind a screen. Once the messenger was gone, Mada showed me the letter. It confirmed that Pang Hu indeed intended to trade the women's lives for safe passage for himself and his men out of the twin cities. The letter stated he knew of my return to the twin cities and demanded that I persuade the Emperor to stand down and allow all his forces to depart.

Mada asked me, "Lord Zhao, what should we do about this? Allowing Pang Hu to leave is not an issue, but releasing so many rebel Imperial Guards might cause trouble for the surrounding jurisdictions."

I replied, "Your Majesty, please agree to his terms. As long as my wives return safely, I guarantee I will bring back every single person released without fail."

Though the Pang faction held reservations, none dared voice opposition. Mada declared, "Very well, I trust you. This matter is entirely in your hands. Decide how to proceed; you need not report back to me."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," I responded. "Since Pang Hu knows I am back in the twin cities, I must go to the Pang Manor personally to negotiate with him."

The Crown Prince and Lin Gu immediately protested, "Lord Zhao, you cannot! Pang Hu is exceptionally cunning. Entering the tiger's den—if any accident befalls you, what use is rescuing the wives?"

I was grateful for their concern. "Please rest assured, sirs. Did you not see my strength clearly just now?"

Recalling the events outside the Wencheng Wude Hall, the others fell silent. Indeed, given my power, Pang Hu likely had no chance of killing me. However, Liu Gang finally spoke up. "Lord Zhao, could we accompany you? Although our abilities are limited, we might be able to create a diversion or assist in the rescue at a critical moment."

I weighed the options. Bringing them might prove a liability, but as the saying goes, there is strength in numbers. We still didn't know the location where the women were held. With their assistance, perhaps the task could be accomplished with twice the result with half the effort. I nodded my agreement. We bid farewell to Mada and hurried out of the inner city. Unexpectedly, Ma Xiaoda secretly followed, and Ma Xiaorui ran out as well. No amount of persuasion could dissuade them from coming along to help rescue the others. I had no choice but to agree. Although the situation felt somewhat farcical, with my abilities, even if I couldn't save the others, I could guarantee their safety. Ma Xiaorui was also concerned for Xu Chen and the others.

Gu Qi was left in charge of the inner city’s security. Although the four city gates were destroyed, we still had five hundred war chariots hovering above, so we weren't afraid of a sudden attack by Pang Hu's forces. Moreover, their men were completely encircled by buildings around the Pang Manor and couldn't possibly cause further chaos.

The Eastern Depot temporarily commandeered a wealthy merchant's mansion as its command center. I led Lin Gu, Ma Xiaoda, and Ma Xiaorui there first. Sun Chang and Kong Wu were already present, as were A San, A Si, and others. A Gou had lost a leg, which made me feel deeply guilty. If Hua Qingqing were here, perhaps she could find a remedy, but since she was currently imprisoned by Pang Hu, we could only address it after the rescue.

I instructed A San, "Send someone to the Pang Manor with a message: I will enter the residence myself to discuss the exchange."

A San accepted the order. "Yes, Lord. That's simple; we just need to shoot an arrow with the message inside."

A San left to handle the messenger arrangement. We waited inside for the time it takes to brew tea when voices were heard outside the door. Someone then came in to report, "Lord, several young ladies are requesting an audience. They say their names are Ouyang Qian and Jin Meili, and there is one who is very, very short."

Why were they here? I had instructed them to remain on the war chariots. "Those are my three wives. Bring them in quickly."

Upon hearing 'three wives,' Ma Xiaorui anxiously tugged at my robes. "Brother-in-law, you are going too far! It's only been a few days, and you've acquired three more wives. Can't you handle the ones you have first?"

Though I wasn't in the mood for flirting with Ma Xiaorui, I managed a teasing smile. "Handling the ones here is simple; I can manage them all in one night. I'm just worried they might not last. Finding more girls can help share the workload."

Although Ma Xiaorui was jesting, she didn't want to go too far in front of the officials. She shot me a look and fell silent. At that moment, Ouyang Qian entered, accompanied by Jin Meili and Ximen Yan. I asked, "Why didn't you stay on the chariots? It's dangerous here."

Jin Meili explained, "We came down to see if we could help you. It's also a way to make a good impression on the sisters before they arrive."

What help could they offer? But I didn't want to dampen their enthusiasm. "Alright, you three can help Ximen Yan analyze intelligence while we stall that traitor Pang Hu and continue the underground search. I don't believe he can get everyone out of the twin cities in just a few hours."

Ma Xiaoda offered me an idea, "Brother-in-law, what if this is the situation? Previously, we had Han Wei dig tunnels to rescue A San and the others. Pang Hu might fear we'll tunnel in again to rescue the sisters. Perhaps he's hidden them on the upper floors or in locations not connected to the ground. Ximen Yan sister should probably change her search method."

Ximen Yan slapped her own forehead. "Yes! How could I, a fool, not think of that? I was only focused on the prisons and dungeons. I’ll send people back to search again."

I realized she was right. It seemed Ma Xiaoda possessed some composure in a crisis. More people truly meant more strength and ideas. I instructed Ximen Yan, "Be absolutely sure to remain concealed. Otherwise, Pang Hu might suspect our sincerity, and if complications arise, it won't be good."

Ximen Yan replied, "Don't worry. We dwarves are naturally small; comparatively, we are more suited for this task."

After Ximen Yan left, Ma Xiaorui watched her go and quietly murmured to me, "You always say I'm too small and stop me from doing this and that. Am I smaller than her? What have you two done together? Brother-in-law, you really are abnormally perverse, picking on children."

I had no patience to entertain Ma Xiaorui's teasing. "Princess Shiliu, right now saving lives is like fighting a fire. Can we postpone these matters until later?"

Ma Xiaorui adopted a look of supreme confidence. "What's there to fear? I trust your ability. Those sisters will definitely be safe, or else, would you still be Zhao Qian?"

Women are such sweet fools; they blindly trust the man they love, convinced he is the best and will succeed, even when he himself lacks certainty. But when have I, Zhao Qian, ever disappointed my women? Certainly not this time.

A San rushed in carrying a letter. "Lord, a reply from Pang Manor has arrived. Please review it."

I broke the seal and glanced at it. "Pang Hu wants to come out and meet with me! What does that mean? Does he think it's safer for him to come out than for me to go in? Is his head damaged?"

Lin Gu offered, "Lord, the rogue probably fears you might secretly make other moves if you enter the manor. If he comes out, he doesn't have to worry about that. Furthermore, given your concern for the safety of your wives, you certainly wouldn't dare touch him, which is why he is so brazen."

I nodded. "That makes sense. This man is truly treacherous; he’s thought of everything. Very well, we came with sincerity for the exchange in the first place. It’s better to let him see our military might outside; it might temper any lingering resistance."

A San took the letter and went out again. Far off, I thought I heard sounds of fighting outside the city. I instructed A Mao, "Mao Leader, go out immediately and check. Something seems to be happening outside the city."

A Mao accepted the order and rushed off. At this moment, I wasn't worried about an attack on the city. The five hundred war chariots hidden beneath the inner city's aerial corridor could engage at any moment; whoever came would gain nothing.

After an anxious wait, footsteps were heard outside, and a soldier reported in advance that Pang Hu had arrived. It seemed the man was impatient, perhaps even more anxious than I was. Lin Gu and the others straightened their attire and stood arrayed to the left and right, ready to present an imposing front to intimidate Pang Hu, lest he make exorbitant and unrealistic demands.

"Ah, Lord Zhao! I said you wouldn't be so easily trampled to death by horses. You really are alive. They say good men don't live long—you and I truly prove that, don't we?" Pang Hu's voice boomed before he even entered the room. It was hard to tell if he was cursing me or himself.

Pang Hu and I had met countless times, and since I didn't intend to discuss anything else this time, I cut straight to the chase without pleasantries. "Grand Tutor Pang, let’s skip the nonsense. Where are my wives? Hand them over, and I guarantee I will agree to your terms. Otherwise, don't blame me for being impolite."

Pang Hu seated himself uninvited, his old face devoid of fear. "Lord Zhao, your concern for your ladies is unmatched in the twin cities. They are peerless beauties. Rest assured, I won't harm a single hair on their heads. But whether I release them depends on my mood. I am an old man now; frankly, I've enjoyed everything I should have. Although my final wish to attain the throne was not fulfilled, I have no regrets. To drag a group of beauties to the grave with me is worth it."

I replied coldly, "Enough of this facade. Say what you want. As long as it is within my power, I will satisfy you."

Pang Hu stated, "Actually, my demands are quite simple. Withdraw all guards from the Middle and Outer Cities, and allow us a calm retreat. Additionally..."

Bang! A Mao suddenly threw open the hall door, causing Pang Hu to stop speaking abruptly. A Mao ignored Pang Hu and urgently reported to me, "Lord, a massive number of Jin Kingdom soldiers have inexplicably appeared outside the city! They have captured the West Gate of the Outer City and are now engaged with the defending Imperial Guards. Our men are about to be overwhelmed!"

I was stunned. In the flurry of events, I had completely forgotten the Jin Crown Prince’s plan to invade the twin cities via the underground corridor! I could no longer worry about Pang Hu. I told Lin Gu beside me, "Lord Lin, take troops immediately to reinforce the West Gate! Qingqing, notify Little Fish immediately and order her to command the war chariots to assist the Imperial Guards!"

Ouyang Qian nodded and left quickly behind Lin Gu. This sudden turn of events made Pang Hu's eyes dart around. He said to me, "Lord Zhao, your concern for the nation and its people is truly admirable. A talent like you should be serving someone as capable as myself. Securing your allegiance alone could win the world. That dim-witted emperor was right; you are a general of fortune. With you, there will surely be many loyal generals and talented men devoted to me."

Pang Hu’s eyes swept over the generals seated below—each one a talent capable of standing alone, a stark contrast to his so-called confidantes. Yet, not a single one would obey his command; each was possessed, loyal to their master without reservation, caring nothing for themselves.

I told Pang Hu, "You flatter me. I have no ambition to conquer the realm. Release the women, and I will immediately order a passage cleared for you from the East Gate. I won't care how many of you leave!"

Pang Hu laughed heartily. "Zhao Qian, do you think I would give up so easily? I don't want to leave now. I want you to bring the commander of the Jin forces outside to meet me. Don't ask me how you should do it; I only want results. And my patience is limited. Moreover, when I came out, I instructed my subordinates that if I do not return within a certain time, they are to begin executing the hostages. You figure out what to do."

Pang Hu’s move was utterly vicious. Perhaps he had already planned to ally with the Jin Kingdom to turn the tide of the battle, and I was meant to be the one arranging the connection. If I refused, my wives would certainly be in danger. After all, Pang Hu wasn't a young man; he wouldn't be easily swayed by beauty or compassion. Ordering the execution of beautiful women—I was certain he could do it.

Knowing this was naked coercion, I had no way to resist. "Fine! I will go bring the Jin commander here. But Pang Hu, listen closely: my patience is also limited. You had better be smart; don't assume I have no other recourse. Do you remember that time you sent dwarves to assassinate me?"

Hearing this, Pang Hu flinched. He truly hadn't expected outsiders to know about the dwarf incident. That assassination attempt failed, and he had heard nothing from the dwarves afterward, assuming the matter was closed. My sudden mention of it unsettled him.

Pang Hu said coldly, "To achieve one's goals by any means necessary—I suspect you, Zhao Qian, have done that too. Are you going to settle old scores?"

I countered, "I won't settle old scores with you. The new debts alone are enough to cost you your life. Let me remind you: that dwarf princess is now my wife, Zhao Qian's wife. You probably know their skill at tunneling through mountains better than I do. His Highness the Crown Prince just escaped your dungeon. They know my wives are in your manor. Though I haven't found them yet, don't be overconfident. The moment I find them and rescue them, your dog’s life is forfeit!"

Upon hearing this, sweat beaded on Pang Hu's aged face and trickled down his white beard. He hadn't actually left the manor. If those little tunneling experts were searching, they would eventually find the women. With their abilities, Pang Hu's guards, Pang Da and Pang Er, probably couldn't cope. By then, the hostages would be rescued, and his own life would truly be forfeit.

Pang Hu considered returning to the manor immediately, but then he wondered if they would let him go. More importantly, his plan to rise again with the Jin Kingdom was about to collapse. Since they hadn't found the hostages yet, his life was momentarily safe. The current struggle was a race against time: whoever gained the upper hand first might win the entire game. The crucial factor was when the hostages would be discovered and rescued.

Pang Hu calmed his emotions, wiping the sweat from his face. "Zhao Qian, don't think I am afraid of you. You had better hurry and do as I say, or don't blame me for showing no mercy! Also, tell those dwarves to withdraw, or I won't hesitate to be ruthless! After all, the hostages are in my hands."

Since I had made such bold statements, I was not afraid of Pang Hu's threats. I told him, "Pang Hu, I hope we can adopt a cooperative attitude now. Otherwise, even if you kill my wives, I can still revive them—don't forget my title as Divine Doctor. But rest assured, if you die, I promise to send a few sheets of Joss paper for memorial rites."

Pang Hu's mind was in chaos. His title of Divine Doctor hadn't been invoked for some time; the title of God of War seemed to resonate louder now. The matter of resurrecting the dead must be true; he had forgotten this aspect earlier. He thought he had the upper hand everywhere, but now, he feared he would be constantly controlled.

Pang Hu changed his tone of voice. "Fine, let's cooperate then. As long as you bring the commander of the attacking Jin forces here, I will let you take your people and leave the twin cities. Rest assured, I will return the women completely unharmed."

"Good," I replied. "Wait for me; I'll go find that charcoal-black devil right away."

With my current superhuman abilities, taking the head of an enemy general amidst thousands of troops was not difficult. I had attempted it six thousand years ago on Earth during the prehistoric era. Now my powers were far greater, and the opposition was too weak, making it even easier. The only surprise was that the Jin Crown Prince himself was leading this siege.

This fellow must be tired of living; to dare attempt this mission in person. However, it wasn't until I carried the Jin Crown Prince back to the temporary command post that I realized he had come specifically looking for Jin Meili. Even when he was so terrified that he almost lost control of his bodily functions, seeing Jin Meili still made him regard her as a celestial being.

“Miss Jin, I knew you would return to Shuangcheng. I guessed correctly. Your sudden departure caused me so much anguish.”

Jin Meili paused, startled. “How is it you?”

The Jin Crown Prince replied, “Who else would it be? Miss Jin, are you moved by me? Come back to my country with me this time. Oh, I forgot, I promised we’d have our wedding in Shuangcheng. But now that I’ve been captured myself, it seems I will have to break my word to you.”

Grand Tutor Pang had not expected me to actually bring the person back. At first, he thought I had just found some random person and smeared ink on them to pass off as the prince. But when he saw the actual Jin Crown Prince, his belief became absolute. He had met this prince once before, several years ago, but Pang Hu had an excellent memory and recalled him after a brief moment of reflection.

Pang Hu bowed deeply. “Your Highness the Crown Prince, I am Grand Tutor Pang Hu of Shuangcheng. I have a few things I wish to discuss with you privately. Rest assured, I can guarantee your safety.”

The Jin Crown Prince dared not take his eyes off Jin Meili’s form, as if fearing that if he blinked, this Black Rose would vanish again. “Oh, it’s you. Go on, tell me what it is.”

Jin Meili’s eyes darted back and forth as she turned to the Jin Crown Prince. “Your Highness, I have missed you as well, but this Grand Tutor Pang has repeatedly made things difficult for me. I truly had no way to return to see you.”

In truth, Jin Meili was clearly lying, as she had only escaped Jin territory a day or two ago. But the Jin Crown Prince, at this moment, seemed as if he had been dosed with a love potion, merely nodding and responding to Jin Meili’s words with sounds of affirmation. He exclaimed, “Ah, so this old scoundrel is truly that wicked! Don’t let me get a chance, or he’ll pay dearly!”

Pang Hu broke out in a cold sweat, utterly enraged. What in the blazes was going on here?