Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 108

<Tianxiu Arc>

Within and around the royal palace, gloomy clouds hovered, and the once magnificent palace was now shrouded in a hazy gloom. The envoy they had sent to negotiate peace with the Wolf Star Desert Tribe had returned, bringing with him the tribe’s terms for reconciliation.

“Did they really say that?” The reigning emperor of Tianxiu inquired in a slightly irritated tone after hearing the envoy’s report.

The envoy nervously lowered his head. “Yes, the King of the Desert from Wolf Star said that if we want to end the war, in addition to meeting their compensation demands, His Highness himself must go… to Wolf Star… for a marriage alliance.”

His voice grew softer, but in the silent hall, every word echoed clearly to all present.

“Absurd!” The emperor slapped the armrest of his throne hard, becoming so agitated that he began to cough violently. Attendants rushed forward to comfort him. The average lifespan of the Tianxiu royal family was around forty years, and the emperor was nearing his end. Born weak, the royal bloodline had always passed from one generation to the next without branching. His only heir, Yue Hua, was just sixteen years old. In two more years, once he became an adult, the throne could be passed on, allowing the emperor to rest in peace. But now, their greatest enemy, the Desert Tribe of Wolf Star, had made such an outrageous demand.

Finally catching his breath, the emperor said, “Yue Hua is my only son, the sole heir to the throne. More importantly, he is a proud young man. How can we send him to marry into a barbaric foreign tribe?”

A minister below said indignantly, “The Desert Tribe must be aware of His Highness’s situation. By making this impudent demand, they clearly want to use a refusal of the marriage alliance as a pretext to invade. If we are forced to agree, it would be a great humiliation for Tianxiu, and the royal lineage would be cut off.”

Another lamented, “Given His Highness’s health and susceptibility to illnesses, how can he withstand the long journey and the environment of another planet? Furthermore, the Wolf Star inhabitants’ ferocity and barbarism are well known. How can he possibly…”

The young prince, seated prominently to the west, turned even paler as the murmurs continued.

With many voices but no solution, the Desert Tribe of the Wolf Star was a formidable enemy that Tianxiu couldn’t match. Sacrificing the young prince might be the only way to avoid the nation’s destruction.

The emperor, with a growing headache, exclaimed, “With so many of you here, can no one think of a way to repel the enemy?”

One of the royal science researchers stepped forward. “Your Majesty, I have an idea.” He unfolded a blueprint. “This is my latest research—a giant humanoid made of metal, possessing immense offensive and defensive capabilities. It can be operated from inside. I call it a ‘Mech’.”

Someone immediately countered, “You mentioned it’s operated from inside. This means there are high requirements for the operator’s physical abilities, balance, and adaptability. So, who will operate this… Mech you’ve invented?”

The researcher hesitated.

Another suggestion arose. “What if we find an ally, offer them this Mech, and in return, seek their protection?”

“Don’t be naive. What if the ally acquires our weapon, replicates the technology, and then turns it against us? Haven’t we been deceived enough already?”

“What we urgently need now is a unique weapon that doesn’t require manual operation and has autonomous capabilities. But where can we find such a weapon?”

All eyes turned to a silent individual, another researcher from the Royal Academy and a highly regarded scientist in recent years.

Under intense scrutiny, he stepped forward. “Your Majesty, my team has been working on a project to develop an individual entity with autonomous combat capabilities. However, we’ve encountered a major challenge.”

“What’s the problem?” the emperor asked eagerly.

“We lack an effective ‘sample’.”

“Sample? What do you mean?”

“The entities we’ve developed possess very basic artificial intelligence. They can’t handle complex commands and certainly can’t be used in warfare. The human brain is an incredibly complex organ, and we can’t replicate it solely with scientific simulation. To advance artificial intelligence further, we would need…”

“Need what?”

“We would need a real human to willingly become a ‘sample’. Based on this, we could then replicate and modify it, creating a true sentient being.”

The courtiers exchanged worried glances. For someone to become a sample meant transforming into a lifeless entity.

“Can’t we use death row inmates for this?”

He shook his head. “Undergoing transformation requires enduring inhuman torture. We’ve tried this experiment with death row inmates, but none survived. To succeed, the individual must possess a strong physique, an extraordinary will, and undying loyalty to the royal family.”

The room fell silent. Everyone hoped the research would succeed in saving their nation, but no one wanted to become a lifeless monster.

Just when everyone was at a loss, a man stood up and said, “I am willing to try.”

There was a commotion in the hall. The emperor looked intently and saw that the person who had stepped forward was the young prince’s bodyguard. He was one of the rare “physically strong individuals” among the people of Tianxiu. He had been assigned to the prince when the latter was ten years old and had been responsible for his safety ever since.

When Yua Hua saw it was him, he leaned forward but stopped himself, gripping the arms of his chair so tightly that his knuckles turned white.

The emperor was delighted. “You are willing?”

“Yes,” the bodyguard replied firmly. “My physical condition is superior to that of the average person, and I am completely loyal to the royal family. I believe I should meet the requirements.”

The emperor let out a sigh of relief, feeling very fond of this man who was willing to take on such a great responsibility. “What is… your name again?”

“Your Majesty, my name is Cang Yun.”

“Cang Yun.” The emperor’s gaze softened as he repeated the name. “Cang Yun, good.”

“Your Majesty, I am also willing to try.”

Another person stepped forward from behind the young prince and stood beside Cang Yun.

“…You?”

The individual performed a courtesy typical of palace women. “I am also physically strong and have been appointed to take care of the prince’s daily needs since childhood. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say I’ve watched him grow. I cannot tolerate the rude demands of the Desert Tribe. If this transformation has a chance of failure, then having another person increases the odds of success. Please allow me to show my loyalty to the prince.”

The emperor looked at the man and woman standing side by side in the hall. They were merely attendants to the young prince, arguably the lowest in rank in the hall. Yet, when it mattered most, they stepped forward to serve their master, whereas not one official had done so.

Having such individuals come forward, he seemed to already envision the future of Tianxiu.

The emperor gestured for his attendants to approach. “Help me up.”

Two attendants immediately assisted the emperor. With their help, he walked down from his throne to stand before the two.

“Whether the transformation plan succeeds or not, you both are heroes of Tianxiu. My people and I will forever remember your kindness. If our lineage is fortunate to continue, I promise to carve statues in your likeness so that your deeds will be passed down for generations and your names will be immortalized.”

He ordered his attendants. “Let go.”

They carefully released him, and the emperor, in front of everyone, knelt down to the two.

Seeing him do so, everyone else naturally followed suit, bowing down in gratitude. Only Cang Yun and the woman stood tall.

That night, some found it hard to sleep. Cang Yun, as usual, patrolled the young prince’s sleeping chambers and found him still awake.

“Why haven’t you slept?” he asked, crouching down and adjusting the blanket over the prince’s knees. Yue Hua was sensitive to the cold, and at night he had to cover his legs with such a thick blanket.

“Why did you step forward?” Yue Hua’s voice carried a sadness he couldn’t hide.

Cang Yun knelt on one knee. “Because I could never watch my prince marry an enemy to save our people. My duty is to protect you. Even if it means sacrificing my life, I will not allow such an event to occur.”

He tightened the corner of the blanket with a slight smile. “This is the last time I take the initiative to do something like this for you. If we succeed in the future, you can still command me. I swear, no matter what I become, I will always be loyal to you. I will engrave this loyalty into my genes, replicate it without reservation, and provide you with the strongest support in the world.”

Yue Hua reached out and touched his face. “Even if there are a million of you in the future, I would recognize you at a glance.”

Cang Yun lifted Yue Hua’s hand and gently kissed the back of it. “It’s my honor.”

……

The entire nation was focused on this crucial moment. The experimental chamber slowly opened, revealing two people inside with their eyes tightly shut.

“Is this… considered a success or not?” the Emperor asked anxiously.

At his words, it seemed like a signal. Both individuals inside the chamber slowly opened their eyes. Though their appearances remained unchanged, the lack of emotion in their eyes made them seem like completely different people, devoid of all desires and feelings.

Scientists thoroughly examined both of them. All their vital signs appeared normal, but they still hesitated to conclude anything.

“Go, try destroying that stone,” one scientist ordered the transformed Cang Yun.

He referred to a massive boulder outside, taller than a man and so wide it would take two people to wrap their arms around it. In a blink, Cang Yun vanished from their sight and reappeared behind the rock, shattering it with a single punch.

The inherently frail people of Tianxiu had never seen such power before. They were all awestruck, and it took a moment for them to recover.

“We did it!”

“We succeeded! We succeeded!” Everyone cheered.

There was an atmosphere of elation. Even the Emperor, looking up with relief, took a long breath. Only the young prince looked on with sorrow in his eyes.

“Today is a day that only occurs once in five hundred years when the Lone Star, the Tianxiu planet, and the Blazing Sun align,” the Emperor announced. “I name these warriors after the Lone Star. They will be the hope for Tianxiu’s future.”

He ordered, “Proceed with the replication plan as fast as possible. I want to prepare the most magnificent entourage for the young prince’s marriage procession, one that the Wolf Star people will remember for a lifetime.”

“As you command, Your Majesty!”

It was a night of jubilation for the Tianxiu people, with festivities everywhere. Only the prince’s palace remained quiet.

“Your Highness, you called for me.”

A familiar voice, a familiar face. Cang Yun approached Yue Hua, every detail, even the rhythm of his footsteps, exactly as before.

But when Yue Hua looked into his eyes, the warmth that used to spontaneously appear was gone forever.

The Cang Yun now, though still loyal and possessing astonishing power, would no longer act on his own initiative for him.

“Come here.”

Yue Hua reached out, and Cang Yun obediently knelt before him. “What would you have me do, Your Highness?”

After a moment’s thought, Yue Hua said, “Tuck in the blanket for me.”

With great care, Cang Yun adjusted the blanket, making sure every corner was perfect, as he had done countless times before.

“Is there anything else?” he asked when he finished.

Yue Hua gently traced a line from Cang Yun’s hair to his lips. “Smile for me.”

No muscle twitched in response.

“Smile.” Yue Hua tried to force a smile by pushing up the corners of Cang Yun’s mouth, creating a comical expression. Instead of laughing, Yue Hua’s eyes welled up.

“Do you remember the past?” His voice trembled. “Do you remember me?”

Cang Yun remained silent.

Yue Hua leaned forward, embracing Cang Yun’s head as tears rolled down. “You said I could order you to do anything, but you can’t even smile. You liar, a big liar.”

……

Eight years later.

The former emperor had passed away, and the young new emperor had ascended to the throne—a piece of news that was already four years old.

Since the birth of the Lone Star warriors, no other race dared to target Tianxiu. Enemies that once invaded and humiliated them received their retribution. The Wolf Star’s vast Desert Tribe, one of the largest, faced devastating retribution, leading to their complete disintegration and demise.

Tianxiu experienced an unprecedented peace. It seemed they had little to worry about, but one issue remained unresolved. Ever since the new emperor’s ascension, there had been persistent calls for him to take a queen. However, he had been delaying using various excuses. Several elder statesmen spent considerable effort persuading the new emperor to think of the royal lineage and settle down.

Finally, today, the whole nation awaited the long-anticipated wedding ceremony.

“Your Majesty, the ceremony is about to begin. Where are you going?” The master of ceremonies asked anxiously as he followed behind.

Yue Hua didn’t turn his head. “I’m just saying goodbye to an old friend. I won’t run away from the wedding. You don’t need to worry.”

The master of ceremonies sighed in exasperation. The young emperor was truly worrisome.

The heavy door creaked open, revealing a grand, ornate hall with only one person standing alone inside. Hearing the sound, the man turned around and respectfully said, “Your Majesty.”

Yue Hua signaled his attendants to push him forward, then waved them away.

“You may leave. I have something to discuss with him privately.”

The attendants obeyed and left. Once the massive doors closed, only the two of them remained. Yue Hua, supporting himself on the armrest, struggled to stand and took steps to approach Cang Yun.

“I’m getting married. Continuing the royal lineage is my responsibility. Did you foresee this day coming? Is that why you chose to abandon all emotions early on?”

“But that’s okay. Only I hold our memories. Only I have felt sorrow every day for the past eight years. You, knowing nothing, might indeed be blessed in a way.”

Yue Hua lowered his head, took Cang Yun’s hand, and solemnly placed a hexagram emblem in his palm, then closed Cang Yun’s fingers around it.

“You possess eternal life, while I know my time is limited. I hope you can protect my descendants forever, just as you protected me. This is my last request.”

Attendants escorted the young emperor out. In the distance, the sound of ceremonial cannons boomed. The ceremony was about to begin.

Standing in the center of the vast hall, Cang Yun’s face remained expressionless, but a silent tear rolled down his cheek.

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 107

Fu Yao rushed into the blaze, only to see Ying Feng standing alone. Aside from an unrecognizable corpse that clearly wasn’t of the Tianxiu people, no one else was present.

“Ying Feng! Where’s Ling Xiao?” Explosions resounded around them. Fu Yao shouted over the noise.

Ying Feng stood still, seemingly deaf to both the explosions and Fu Yao’s voice.

Another loud bang was heard as debris fell nearby. Fu Yao knew they couldn’t stay there for long. He needed to get Ying Feng out first.

“This place is going to be destroyed. Let’s move!” He tried to pull Ying Feng but couldn’t move him.

Seeing Ying Feng’s despondent look, as if he wished for death, Fu Yao cursed under his breath and struck Ying Feng, knocking him unconscious. Carrying him, Fu Yao dashed out.

Burning obstacles fell in their path. Fu Yao waved his hand, extinguishing the fire in front of him, paving a path of ice and snow.

Supporting Ying Feng, Fu Yao sped out of the starship. Nie Yun, piloting a spacecraft, quickly came to their rescue. They had just escaped the danger zone when a massive explosion destroyed the starship, which looked like a grand firework before it faded.

This starship, wanted by the military for decades, had finally met its end.

Long Yin looked at the recovered Ying Feng. He had awakened from unconsciousness yet remained silent and looked lost, like a wandering soul.

It was the most profound loss Long Yin had ever experienced in his life. None of his campaigns over the years had ended in such a disastrous defeat.

Everyone waited for his instruction. Long Yin sighed. “Return to the surface, to the command center.”

“I want to go back to school.” Ying Feng, who had been silent, suddenly spoke.

His subordinates looked at Long Yin uncertainly.

“I want to go back to school,” Ying Feng repeated.

Left with no choice, Long Yin could only wave his hand helplessly. “Take him back.”

The military fleet landed at the Royal Sky landing pad. Ying Feng, holding Xiao Hui, disembarked from the spaceship alone.

“Is it okay to let him go back alone?” Nie Yun asked worriedly from behind.

Fu Yao, watching Ying Feng’s departing figure, had a complicated expression. “Let him have some time alone.”

The long night had passed, and dawn was breaking. Ying Feng bent down to put down Xiao Hui. As he looked up, the first rays of the sunrise met his eyes. Instinctively, he raised his hand to shield them from the dazzling light.

Though it was early, there were students exercising on the campus. As Ying Feng walked, a student running towards him shouted:

“Ying Feng! Ling Xiao has caused trouble again. Go check on him!”

Ying Feng paused. “What did you say?”

Thinking he hadn’t heard clearly, the student repeated louder. “I said why are you up so early today. Walking your dog?”

It took a few seconds for Ying Feng to realize he had misheard. He walked away in a daze.

The student who greeted him looked back, puzzled. What’s wrong with Ying Feng today?

Returning to the dormitory he once shared with Ling Xiao, a large photo on the wall served as a constant reminder of Ling Xiao’s presence. Ying Feng slowly sat on the bed, gazing at the picture. He then reached into his chest pocket.

Where he once kept a token from his past life lover, he now felt a small metal box. He opened it to reveal two rings. He took out one, engraved with a date from a year ago.

Xiao Hui struggled to climb onto the bed. Usually, it wouldn’t dare to do so when Ying Feng was around, but today Ying Feng didn’t stop it. It rested its small head on Ying Feng’s leg, its light gray eyes filled with a sorrow mirroring Ying Feng’s.

Sunset followed by sunrise, the time outside was changing, but the time inside the house seemed forever frozen on that day. Outside, there came loud knocks on the door, intermingled with Red Head’s shouts:

“Ying Feng! You’ve been inside for three days and nights. If you don’t open the door, I’ll break in!”

Inside, there was complete silence. Red Head exchanged a glance with Bing Can, then teleported into Ying Feng’s dorm room, quickly opening the door for Bing Can and the others.

“Ying Feng! How long do you plan to mope in here?” Without waiting for a response, Red Head stormed into the bedroom. The abrupt change in lighting caught him off guard. Even though it was bright outside, thick curtains inside blocked all light, turning the room into perpetual night, seemingly never to see dawn again.

Ying Feng sat motionless with Xiao Hui beside him, the creature having neither eaten nor drunk for three days.

Seeing this, Red Head felt a mix of sorrow and anger. He stormed to the window, ready to pull back the curtains.

“Don’t open them.”

The petrified Ying Feng suddenly whispered.

Red Head’s action paused midway. A sliver of the curtain was pulled back, letting a shaft of sunlight stream in. The beam of light, trying its best, illuminated the dark room. Standing by the window, facing outside, the sun’s warmth hit Red Head’s face, yet his hands gripping the curtains trembled.

Bing Can, having observed everything, sighed and softly said, “I know you’re grieving, but you must think of Xiao Hui. If you continue to neglect yourself, it will die.”

His words stirred Ying Feng. Lowering his gaze, he saw Xiao Hui, weak and almost lifeless. Yu Ji extended his hand. “Give it to me.”

After a moment’s hesitation, Ying Feng handed over the frail creature. In just three days, Xiao Hui had lost so much weight that Ying Feng could feel its bones.

Watching Yu Ji take Xiao Hui away, Bing Can crouched again. “Of all the people I’ve met, you have one of the strongest spirits. It’s time to pull yourself together. We all hope for you to heal. Losing a friend has already saddened us enough; we can’t lose you too.”

“Do you remember? During the entrance exam, Ling Xiao said you were his pride. I believe Ling Xiao wouldn’t want to see his pride like this. He was such a bright, positive person. Please remember him that way and choose to live on with vigor.”

Having said that, Bing Can stood up and signaled to Red Head. “Let’s go.”

Only then did Red Head turn around, tear streaks evident on his face.

Quietness returned to the room, and after what felt like an eternity, the person inside finally began to move.

……

Fu Yao looked at the person in front of him. Even though he had tried his best to groom himself, the signs of exhaustion were undeniable.

Ying Feng didn’t speak, waiting for Fu Yao to decide his future.

“After discussing with other instructors,” Fu Yao finally broke the silence after a while, “you can transfer to the Combat Command Department, or any other specialty in Royal Sky that interests you. You don’t need to make a decision now. When you’ve made your choice, let me know.”

Ying Feng nodded calmly. “Okay.”

Seeing him like this, Fu Yao felt even more distressed. He walked over to Ying Feng, raised his hand, and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

“I’m truly sorry,” he said.

Ying Feng turned ninety degrees, gave him a military salute, and left without looking back.

Someone was waiting outside his dormitory. Seeing Ying Feng return, he immediately stood straight.

“Ying Feng, you’re back. I knocked earlier, but you weren’t here. Your classmates told me you went out.”

Ying Feng glanced at the slightly nervous Heng He and gave a brief greeting. “What are you doing here?”

“I…” Heng He lowered his head awkwardly. “I heard about Ling Xiao. I’m so sorry for your loss.”

This was the second time in a short while that Ying Feng had heard similar words, and he felt somewhat numb.

“Thank you for visiting,” Ying Feng replied succinctly.

“There’s also…”

Heng He hesitated, pulling out a small chip from his pocket. “This is Ling Xiao’s keepsake. I thought it best to give it to you.”

Ying Feng took it with two fingers and realized it was a holographic storage card.

“What’s on this?”

“…You’ll know when you watch it.”

After Heng He left, Ying Feng returned to his room and plugged the storage card into the player. The beginning of the video was blank. He went into the bedroom to take off his coat when a familiar voice echoed from the living room.

“I’m about to undergo treatment. After this treatment, I might lose all memories from the past three months…”

Ying Feng, dropping his coat, stumbled back to the living room. In the center of the room, a figure sat, speaking earnestly, “…To me, these memories are precious, so I chose to record them. Even if I forget them someday, they won’t truly be lost.”

Ying Feng slowly approached the holographic figure in disbelief, trying to touch it. But as he reached out, his hand passed right through, drawing a defeated arc in the air.

Xiao Hui also ran out, seeing Ling Xiao’s image. It excitedly tried to pounce on him but passed right through and landed on the ground. Undeterred, Xiaohui turned and pounced again and again, repeatedly passing through Ling Xiao’s holographic image without being able to touch him. Yet, it persisted in its attempts, all the while its nostrils flaring strongly, showing its confusion at not being able to detect Ling Xiao’s scent.

The projected Ling Xiao gazed in the direction of the camera, looking past Ying Feng to the wall behind.

His voice continued, “…He took me to the seaside for our honeymoon. We dove in bubbles, turned seawater into hot springs, and made wishes upon shooting stars… He drew a portrait of me, which I’ve stored in my secret stash along with other gifts he gave me…”

A secret stash…?

Recalling something, Ying Feng dashed back into his bedroom, frantically searching. After a thorough search, he found a black box under his bed, which Ling Xiao had never let him see.

Holding the box, he hesitated to open it, recalling a sentence Ling Xiao had told him long ago—

If I ever die, open it and take a look.

It felt like an eternity before he finally opened it. The first thing he saw was a fragment of fabric. Ying Feng recognized it—it was the piece of sleeve torn off when Lan Sheng fell from a building, the one he had personally given to Ling Xiao.

It was that day when Ling Xiao, holding onto the fabric, vowed in front of Ping Zong’s portrait never to become anyone’s Qizi. Yet, he ended up becoming his own—until just a few days ago.

The first drawing he made of Ling Xiao was placed underneath the fabric piece. In the drawing, Ling Xiao was depicted with contentedly squinted eyes, with an aura of happiness that seemed about to burst from the paper.

Ying Feng picked up the drawing, revealing a plastic bag beneath. The pink bag radiated a shy hue, and on it was an image of a little girl in a magical costume. He carefully examined it for a long time, finally recalling that it was the packaging for the strawberry bread he had once bought for Ling Xiao. Surprisingly, Ling Xiao had saved the packaging, and the gift he referred to giving Ying Feng was this.

Ying Feng carefully extracted each bag, one by one. For a box of bread with 24 packs, there were 24 wrappers. He counted each, none missing, none left behind. However, after taking the last pink one, he found another bag at the bottom, but it wasn’t pink.

With trembling hands, Ying Feng picked up the yellow bag adorned with a banana pattern. The once naive and penniless figure who couldn’t even afford food was confidently striking a combat pose in front of him.

It’s not yet determined who will bully whom. By the way, I prefer the taste of banana over strawberry.

If the person standing in front of you now was your lover from your past life, I don’t believe you’d dare do to him what you did to me yesterday!

You’re truly amazing, and I’m proud of you.

If I had to make a wish, instead of gaining, I’d wish not to lose.

Ying Feng, I’ve liked you for a very long time. It feels so good to say this as an equal.

Tears dropped on the bag, blurring its design. If they could start over, if he had known Ling Xiao’s feelings earlier, would his current regrets not be so overwhelming and all-consuming?

Ling Xiao’s voice came softly from the next room, as if it had traveled through a thousand years to reach him.

“…But if I truly forget and the memories restored aren’t as beautiful as they are now, I wouldn’t regret the decision I made today. Because only he knows the efforts we’ve made together. It’s unfair. This feeling, obtained after enduring countless hardships, I want to share it with him, no matter what…”

……

Four and a half years later.

“See that? On our left, most are Qizis, and as you move to the right, there are more Qizhus. Those of us standing in the middle represent the dividing line of the school. That’s because the Joint Combat program is the only major where the ratio of Qizhu to Qizi is always maintained at 1:1,” someone explained to the freshmen.

“Really?” The newcomers looked around, and suddenly one of them pointed at a man in a deep blue Qizhu uniform and asked, “Hey, isn’t that odd? There’s a solo Qizhu up front. Why is there no one beside him?”

The person looked at the upright figure ahead and was instantly filled with sympathy. “Him? He used to be a student in our program, but his Qizi met with an accident, so he transferred to the Command Program midway. But for every entrance and graduation ceremony, he returns. The spot next to him is always vacant.”

In the blink of an eye, half a year passed. Ying Feng completed his final term at Royal Sky. Before leaving, he went to bid farewell to Fu Yao. Even though he was no longer his student, Fu Yao had always taken good care of him over the years.

“Made up your mind then? Not joining the military department?”

“Yes,” Ying Feng replied.

“I’m a bit disappointed, but I respect your decision. If you ever change your mind, you can come to me anytime.”

Ying Feng saluted, bid him goodbye, and departed.

The priest was watering plants in the churchyard when a yellow sports car pulled up, quietly parking outside. A figure stepped out, wearing sunglasses, dragging a suitcase, accompanied by a large, majestic gray wolf.

In the five years since Ling Xiao’s departure, Ying Feng had frequently visited here. The priest had become very familiar with him and occasionally let him stay overnight in the room once occupied by Ling Xing.

“You’ve graduated.”

“Yes.” Ying Feng nodded. “May I stay here?”

“Of course,” the priest replied with a smile, stepping aside. “As long as you don’t mind the small room, you can stay as long as you like.”

Ying Feng nodded in gratitude and, accompanied by Xiao Hui, entered the church’s main door.

<End of Royal Sky Arc>

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 106

A shadow flickered in the darkness, and among the people present, only Zhen He noticed it. He glanced over the pale-faced Ying Feng, the stunned Ling Xiao, and the almost insane Zhu Yue, and seeing that no one was paying attention to him, discreetly retreated from the scene.

Lan Sheng was in a hurry to leave when suddenly, a shadow flashed in front of him, blocking his path.

“Is it you?” Lan Sheng took a cautious step back. He didn’t recognize this person but knew he was Zhu Yue’s contract partner. Having failed to snatch a soul earlier, he wasn’t sure what this person intended now.

“You heard everything, didn’t you?” Zhen He asked.

Taken aback, Lan Sheng nervously denied, “No.”

“Weren’t you just preparing a spaceship to leave?” Zhen He easily saw through him. “Don’t think you can easily take someone away. Besides, as you’ve already heard, your good friend will soon vanish from this world.”

Realizing he’d been found out, Lan Sheng’s hands gradually moved behind him. However, Zhen He spoke again. “But if you wish to save him, there might be a way.”

Lan Sheng paused, halting his motion to draw a weapon. “What?”

……

Xing Lou gently laid Yue Ying on the bed. Because of the unbearable pain, his frail body curled up, and he crumpled the sheets in his grip. Xing Lou looked sorrowfully at Yue Ying, who was much weaker than the average person. Comparing ancient Tianxiu beings to modern ones, the former seemed fragile, where a minor injury could be fatal.

“Just endure this for a while,” Xing Lou whispered to comfort him.

Yue Ying had already prepared mentally. Compared to the pain he’d borne over the years, this was nothing. After today, he too would have eternal life. Although he would be forcibly transformed into a species he detested, it wouldn’t prevent him from surviving.

Amidst the pain, Yue Ying tried to distract himself with conversation. “Do you truly trust that Zhu Yue won’t sabotage the process?”

Xing Lou brushed back the damp golden strands on Yue Ying’s forehead. “He wants Ling Xiao gone more than anyone. A simple death isn’t enough for him. He desires to use you, in Ling Xiao’s body, to oppose Ying Feng. Alive or dead, he won’t spare either of them.”

Yue Ying gave a sardonic laugh, cut off by a sharp intake of breath due to the pain. “Such a ruthless person. No wonder he survived that catastrophe. I feel sorry for those who offended him.”

“With the wisdom of the ancient Tianxiu people and the strength of the modern ones, who knows what he’s capable of if he’s ill-intentioned? Even if we have a hundred enemies, I wouldn’t want an unstable ally.”

With those few words, Xing Lou seemed to have sealed Zhu Yue’s fate, making Yue Ying’s pain seem to lessen a bit.

“Soon, I’ll be someone else. Seeing a different face every day, will you be able to handle it?”

Xing Lou chuckled softly and lay down beside him. “I’ve reincarnated countless times in front of you, always with a different appearance. Haven’t you always accepted me regardless? After thousands of years, physical appearances mean little to me. It’s the person you are that matters.”

He reached out and held Yue Ying’s hand tightly. “Ling Xiao has already reverted to his original form. Once I awaken in this lifetime, we can undergo the coming-of-age ceremony, and you will no longer fear death.”

“I want to be the Qizhu,” Yue Ying said.

“Then I’ll let you be the Qizhu,” Xing Lou agreed without hesitation.

Contentedly, Yue Ying closed his eyes. Everything he had at the moment made him very satisfied, making the millennia of waiting worthwhile.

Ying Feng shut off the communication signal, and silence engulfed the surroundings. Everyone cautiously looked at him, yet no one dared to speak up.

“Do we have a star map?” he asked.

“Yes.” Fu Yao pressed a button on the control panel, and a hovering holographic projection of a planet appeared in midair.

“Which area was the location I found earlier?”

Fu Yao drew a circle around a position in the universe with his finger, leaving a yellowish mist in the air. “About a sphere this big in radius.”

Ying Feng closely observed the star map, drew a line from Zhiyang to Tianxiu, and then drew an arrow through it.

“They just left the extended line between Zhiyang and Tianxiu, probably navigating in this direction. Concentrate the search in the intersecting area.”

Everyone had a sudden realization, and they quickly communicated the latest coordinate range. The military dispatched all their fleets for a carpet search. However, in the vast universe, finding a starship with a stealth system was no easy task.

Time ticked away, and just when everyone secretly worried that Ying Feng might not hold on, exhilarating news came.

“A703 found a suspicious target. Coordinates…” a string of numbers was reported through the communicator.

Ying Feng ordered before Fu Yao could, “Head there immediately!”

The pilot didn’t even wait for his own general’s order; he ignited the thrusters straight away. The spaceship’s speed began to increase linearly, and dozens of warships from all directions also turned and accelerated, converging towards the same direction.

Underneath the control panel, where others couldn’t see, Ying Feng clenched his fist tightly. Half an hour had passed since communication was cut off. Ling Xiao, you must hang on.

……

Ling Xiao had a peculiar device placed over his head. He understood that this was probably the final step of the consciousness transfer process that Zhu Yue had mentioned. Being unable to move, he could only let it be.

Beside him, Yue Ying wore the same device. The two sat side by side, and their vastly different destinies were about to unfold.

“Are you sure there’s no issue?” Even if he believed that Zhu Yue genuinely wanted to get rid of Ling Xiao, Xing Lou still asked cautiously.

“Of course, that’s how I survived,” Zhu Yue confidently replied. “It took me a whole year to replicate this device. I’ve checked every data countless times. There won’t be any issues.”

Xing Lou, hearing his solemn promise, slightly relaxed.

“Where’s Lan Sheng?” Xing Lou looked around but didn’t see any sign of Lan Sheng.

“It’s better if he’s not here. Saves a lot of trouble,” Zhu Yue ordered Zhen He. “If he appears later, control him. Don’t let him interfere with my grand plan.”

Zhen He gave no response. Zhu Yue knew this was his style and didn’t emphasize further.

“Are you ready?” Zhu Yue’s question was more directed at Ling Xiao. “You just said your goodbyes to your Qizhu. Now, it’s time to say goodbye to this world.”

“Ying Feng won’t go easy just because Yue Ying looks like me,” Ling Xiao calmly stated. “We’ve already agreed. If I might become a sinner of Tianxiu, he’ll eliminate me before that happens.”

“Really?” Zhu Yue sneered. “If he could truly bring himself to obliterate your soul while you’re in a fledgling state, that would be quite a scene.”

“By then, I won’t be myself anymore,” Ling Xiao retorted. “Even if it’s my body, I believe he can differentiate better than anyone.”

Zhu Yue wanted to respond, but Xing Lou interrupted him.

“Stop wasting time and hurry up.”

Zhu Yue could only shake his head regretfully. “Goodbye, or rather, farewell forever.”

He pulled the lever, and the progress bar on the device above the two started moving.

Xing Lou knelt down, holding Yue Ying’s hand to his chest. This was the last time he’d see this person in this body, and naturally, he wanted to cherish the sight.

“No matter who you become, I swear I’ll always be loyal to you. I’ll build a new Tianxiu for you. This time, I won’t break my promise.”

Yue Ying gave a slight smile. “I believe you.”

Ling Xiao suddenly became curious. If he was the past self who was absolutely loyal to Yue Ying, would he actively offer his own body and soul to save his life? But he was no longer Yue Ying’s “Qizi”. In this life, only Ying Feng was his Qizhu.

Ling Xiao closed his eyes, and all he could see was the pale face of a certain person. He thought that with Ying Feng’s strong spirit, there was nothing in the world that could hurt him, but he never expected that he himself would become the bullet aimed at his heart.

He remembered the confession that was aborted halfway. Not confessing my feelings to you in person is the greatest regret of my life. If there’s still a chance, if there’s still a chance…

The progress bar finally stabilized at the end. The two people on the left and right both hung their heads quietly, as if they had fallen asleep. Xing Lou held his breath, waiting for one of them to wake up.

After a long time, Ling Xiao slowly opened his eyes, looking somewhat bewildered.

“…Yue Ying?” Xing Lou asked tentatively.

Ling Xiao looked around the scene again and finally settled his gaze on Xing Lou.

“I am Ling Xiao.”

Xing Lou stood up abruptly, with a look of disbelief on his face. “Impossible! Where’s Yue Ying?!”

Yue Ying remained motionless. Xing Lou struggled to reach out, but the person had no breath left. Ling Xiao lowered his head in disbelief, looking at his own chest. “He’s here, I can feel it. His life has disappeared, but a part of his consciousness remains here.”

It was endless and everlasting hatred towards the Tianxiu people. Even if he had perished, his will lingered.

Xing Lou’s eyes were red with anger as he glared at Zhu Yue. The latter was startled and took a step back. “No, this can’t be…”

He quickly checked the instrument and found that someone had moved the pointer representing the retention object. It originally pointed to A but now pointed to B. Such a slight change could affect the outcome of the entire experiment.

“Someone tampered with my instrument.” Zhu Yue’s voice changed. “Who?!”

His device was locked in his room, and he fetched it personally. Apart from Zhen He, no one could enter. But Zhu Yue, who never fully trusted Zhen He, had early on placed a suggestion on him that if he had any ill intentions, he would be electrocuted.

A shadow moved in the dark, seemingly trying to take the opportunity to escape. Xing Lou caught it sharply. “Is it you?!”

Zhu Yue also turned his head immediately. Seeing Lan Sheng, he couldn’t believe he was the culprit.

“How did you do it? Who told you…” Zhu Yue’s voice stopped abruptly as he suddenly thought of someone. Lan Sheng knew it would be difficult to leave with Ling Xiao intact, so he took out a dagger and made a desperate charge at Xing Lou.

Bang—

There was a loud noise. Lan Sheng looked in surprise at the hole the size of a fist in his chest, then at himself, and finally at Ling Xiao. The dagger from Ping Zong slipped from his hand, signaling the toll of death. “Lan Sheng!” Ling Xiao screamed in anguish.

Xing Lou repeatedly fired, and Lan Sheng’s body kept twitching until the gun’s energy was completely drained.

“Enough! Stop it!” Ling Xiao screamed hoarsely but couldn’t prevent it from happening.

Lan Sheng’s eyelids gradually drooped, and countless blue light spots emerged from his body, just like that morning when Ping Zong appeared in front of him.

“Ling Xiao…” A weak Lan Sheng called his name.

“I’m sorry…” Was it too late to say these words now? Tears streamed down Ling Xiao’s face, and he couldn’t utter a complete sentence.

Lan Sheng closed his eyes and fell forward.

“Ping Zong, I’ve missed you for so long. Now I can finally forget you…”

Fragments gathered into a light ball, penetrated the spaceship’s shell, and flew into the vast universe. Inside a nearby ship, someone immediately reported the latest discovery.

“Report! Signs of soul reincarnation detected!”

Ying Feng and others rushed to the command post, watching a soul fly like a meteor towards the direction of Tianxiu.

No longer able to contain his impatience, Ying Feng tightly gripped his right hand and left the spaceship.

“Hey!” Fu Yao couldn’t stop him in time and immediately ordered, “Follow him!”

Xing Lou held the lifeless body of Yue Ying, tears dropping one by one onto his motionless face.

“I waited for you for thousands of years, yet you couldn’t spare more than a day for me…”

The Eagle began to shake violently, with electric sparks flying everywhere and flames erupting.

Zhu Yue sensed something was wrong and looked up. “Damn, he activated the self-destruct program!”

He dropped everything and ran towards the lower deck, shouting the name of his Qizi.

“Zhen He!”

A shuttlecraft stopped in front of him, its hatch opened, revealing the person inside.

Seeing him, Zhu Yue let out a sigh of relief and quickly jumped in.

“Let’s go. This place is about to explode!”

Zhen He waited for him to enter, calmly closed the hatch, and started the engine. The shuttlecraft sped away from the spaceship, and within seconds, the exploding Eagle was left behind.

Wiping the sweat from his brow, Zhu Yue remarked, “He actually wanted to die alongside Ling Xiao in his fledgling state. What a lunatic, I won’t accompany him in that.”

Looking at Zhen He beside him, his voice turned menacing. “It was you, right? You tampered with the instruments using Lan Sheng, ruining my plan.”

“You just wanted revenge on Ying Feng and Ling Xiao. Isn’t breaking the blood pact and dissipating their soul enough?”

Zhu Yue was about to retaliate when Zhen He continued, “If Yue Ying had survived, they would have targeted you next. Even if you left Tianxiu, they wouldn’t let you go. But now, no one can stop us. We can, as you said, go to a new planet, forget the past, and start a new life.”

Zhu Yue stared at him for a long moment, his demeanor softening. He murmured, “Fine.”

“Even though I know this is because of the genes inside you that are loyal to the nation, I’m already pleased that you’ve thought of such an excuse for my sake.”

Contentedly, he closed his eyes. His goal of revenge against Ying Feng was achieved. Compared to the bright future Zhen He painted, the survival of this planet was no longer significant. Let those artificial beings continue their foolish and ignorant existence.

The shuttlecraft initiated its first warp. After a while, Zhu Yue opened his eyes, sensing something amiss.

“Where are you taking us?”

“Of course, to a new planet,” Zhen He calmly replied.

Zhu Yue frowned, noticing the auto-navigation of the shuttlecraft and its representation blinking on the star map.

“Where did you set the destination?” Zhu Yue felt strangely heavy.

“To a very, very distant planet.” Zhen He leaned back. “So far that our souls will vanish, never to return.”

“What?!” Zhu Yue exclaimed in shock and anger. “Why would you do this?!”

“Because as a Qizi, I can’t harm you. Even if I could, I wouldn’t want you to reincarnate so easily. So, I’m taking you to a place without reincarnation, to face true death.”

“Stop this!” Zhu Yue reached out, the red emergency stop button glaringly prominent. Yet his movements became stiffer, and he could only watch, paralyzed, as the button remained just out of reach.

“Just give up.” Zhen He’s movements also became sluggish, even his speech was affected. “This place is filled with a gas that paralyzes the Tianxiu people. Even you can’t resist its effects.”

Zhu Yue’s hand grew heavier, barely touching the edge of the button before falling limply.

“Just enjoy the last moments of your life.” Zhen He mustered all his strength to lift his palm, placing it over Zhu Yue’s hand. “At least this time, I’m with you.”

Explosions echoed within the Eagle. Ling Xiao, connected to unknown wires, sat next to Xing Lou, who still clung to Yue Ying, oblivious to the violent shakes and falling debris.

Ying Feng teleported inside without hesitation. The interior of the spaceship was collapsing, with flames and obstacles blocking his path.

He finally found Ling Xiao, sitting in a chair with an unknown device on his head.

Ling Xiao also noticed him, thinking it was a hallucination as he approached death. He was speechless for a while.

“…Ling Xiao?” Ying Feng hesitantly asked.

Only then did Ling Xiao believe it wasn’t an illusion, and with a silly grin, he replied, “It’s me.”

Ying Feng heaved a long sigh of relief, activated the soul crystal in his hand, forcefully pried open the metal that bound Ling Xiao, and swiftly helped him regain his freedom.

“Let’s go. We need to get out of here.” Ying Feng grabbed his hand, ready to lead him away.

“It’s useless.” The previously silent Xing Lou suddenly spoke up.

Ying Feng had no interest in hearing him out. As he took a step, Xing Lou’s voice followed.

“He will soon disappear from this moment in time, joining me, going back thousands of years to the very beginning of your existence.”

“What?” Ying Feng turned around in shock.

Xing Lou murmured, “I waited for thousands of years, only to face this ending. I want you to feel the same pain, to understand the agony of waiting for a millennium.”

Only then did Ying Feng notice the wires connected from Ling Xiao’s hand to Xing Lou. He immediately tried to sever it.

“It’s too late. He will be forever adrift in the fissures of time, until he dissipates in the river of history.”

Xing Lou lowered his head, gazing at Yue Ying with reluctance. “Time is running out. If you have any last words, say them now, lest you regret it when it’s too late.”

Ying Feng turned to the person next to him in disbelief, sensing Ling Xiao’s uncontrollable trembling hand.

Ling Xiao raised Ying Feng’s hand, their fingers intertwined tightly. They existed in each other’s eyes, sharing the same shade of gray.

The surrounding flames made Ling Xiao’s face glow, and never had he appeared more radiant.

It felt like someone was squeezing Ying Feng’s heart, pushing the oxygen up inch by inch, nearly suffocating him.

This person was the past-life companion he had been searching for and the one he had in this life but lost again.

Tears welled up in Ling Xiao’s eyes, but he revealed the most beautiful smile.

“Ying Feng, I like you. I’ve liked you for a very long time.”

“It feels so good to say this as an equal.”

“Ling Xiao!”

Ying Feng’s hand felt empty, and the person in front of him vanished. He desperately called out the name, but Ling Xiao was nowhere to be found in the world.

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 105

Ling Xiao, lying on the bed, slowly opened his eyes. Lan Sheng nervously crouched beside the bed. After confirming his gray eyes, he sighed in relief. Meanwhile, Zhu Yue stood arrogantly by the side. Seeing this, he smirked in ridicule.

Ling Xiao looked at the two of them—one towering above and the other lower. They met in Bikong and spent their fledgling period there, experiencing friendship and conflicts. Lan Sheng always looked down on Zhu Yue. He even had a big fight with him when Zhu Yue insulted Lan Sheng. However, no matter what, those young and impulsive fledglings never harbored such immense malice towards others, treating lives like grass. After leaving the gates of Bikong, their paths diverged, and they could never return to the old days.

Lan Sheng grabbed Ling Xiao’s hand and tentatively called out. “Ling Xiao?”

Ling Xiao closed his eyes. He couldn’t move, but at least he could choose not to see.

Lan Sheng seemed disappointed, but he didn’t give up, whispering, “I know it’s hard for you to accept this now, but it’s okay. I’ll be with you until you find yourself.”

Zhu Yue left and came back with another syringe. Lan Sheng defensively stood up and pushed him, asking, “What are you doing?”

Zhu Yue clearly disapproved of Lan Sheng’s actions and warned, “Just because I couldn’t beat you in Bikong doesn’t mean I can’t now. If you care about your friend, step aside.”

Facing the taller Zhu Yue, Lan Sheng still stood in front of Ling Xiao, insisting, “I need to know what you’re injecting him with!”

“Have you never been through the tumultuous phase?” Zhu Yue mocked. “The presence of another soul in one’s body causes rejection. I’m just kindly giving him a sedative.”

Lan Sheng was skeptical about Zhu Yue’s intentions, but the term “tumultuous phase” startled him, leading him to reluctantly step aside. Zhu Yue, seeing Lan Sheng’s concession, was pleased.

The supposedly sedative, transparent liquid was injected into Ling Xiao, but he soon realized something was wrong. This wasn’t a sedative. Every inch of him felt like it was about to explode in pain. However, the drug must contain sedative components because, despite the pain, he couldn’t move at all. Lan Sheng, deceived by this facade, believed Zhu Yue’s words and was oblivious to Ling Xiao’s agony.

After dealing with Ling Xiao, Zhu Yue also gave Yue Ying a shot. Yue Ying’s body seemed frail, showing clear signs of exhaustion.

“It’s done.” Zhu Yue glanced at the time. “You two should rest. The nobler the lineage of the ancient Tianxiu blood, the weaker the body. After such a long journey from the genetic center to here, it must be the limit for you, right?”

Xing Lou, surprisingly, didn’t object and pushed Yue Ying away. Ling Xiao, though paralyzed, was still keen of hearing. He found it odd how both of them obeyed Zhu Yue. Zhu Yue’s words to Yue Ying were even weirder.

Ling Xiao’s mind was still racing with concerns for others, even in his critical state. Lan Sheng leaned close, whispering, “You should rest too.”

His next words were even softer, and Ling Xiao suspected only he could hear. “Once you wake up, I’ll take you away from here.”

Ling Xiao wished he could tell him how naive he was. What made him believe they would be let go?

As he heard Lan Sheng’s departing footsteps, someone adjusted his bed, forcing him to sit up. Opening his eyes, he saw it was Zhu Yue.

Zhu Yue squatted down in front of him.

“Does it hurt? Body modification is not a comfortable thing. I’ve experienced the same pain.” His eyes drifted to the side, seemingly reminiscing the past. “It’s a pity that it was a long time ago, and I can’t quite remember. So, I can’t share in your pain. What a regret.”

Though he spoke so, his expression clearly indicated regret, not for the other’s pain but because he couldn’t derive greater pleasure from it.

“But don’t worry. This process is quick. Soon you won’t feel any pain; in fact, you won’t feel anything.” Zhu Yue’s voice grew colder. “Because you will disappear from this world.”

Ling Xiao found he could speak gradually. “Who… are you…”

Zhu Yue answered indifferently, “Remember that off-campus internship in Bikong? It was during that internship that you and Ying Feng met the Kui.”

How could Ling Xiao forget? That was one of the most profound memories in his life.

“I accidentally obtained the soul stone of that Kui. Have you ever heard of the legend about the soul stone? It contains ancient history, and if you possess it, you can recover memories from a thousand years ago.”

Ling Xiao had heard, but he thought it was just a legend.

“Let me tell you, that legend is true.”

“You mean…?”

“Yes.” Zhu Yue knew what Ling Xiao wanted to ask. “I have memories of my soul’s first life. What Yue Ying told you was just a story to you, but for me, it was a personal experience.”

“I witnessed the prosperity of the ancient Tianxiu, the revolt of the artificial humans, the fall of the imperial power, and the birth of the Republic. My memories are even more direct than Yue Ying’s because he was frozen early on, but I saw everything firsthand. I saw my race being destroyed by you.”

Ling Xiao was taken aback. “You aren’t a Tianxiu?”

Zhu Yue stood up. “I should say I am the real Tianxiu. With your powerful forces, you sought to exterminate us who were powerless. To survive, I had to abandon my body, obtain immortality in my Qizi, and through reincarnations, I forgot that I was a Tianxiu.”

Ling Xiao finally understood why Zhu Yue had such rare pale yellow hair and why he seemed so weak compared to them. A bold speculation sprouted in his heart.

“You want me to keep Yue Ying alive?”

“Yes, our unfortunate prince contracted a rare disease before he reached adulthood. The medical science of that era couldn’t help. As a last resort, they froze his body, hoping future medical advancements could cure him.”

“But today’s medicine…”

“How could it cure his disease?” Zhu Yue finished his sentence. “Without treatment, even if Yue Ying awakens, he won’t live for more than six months. Now you know why Xing Lou collaborates with me, right? Because he needs me. Without me, his thousand-year wait would be in vain.”

“And you? Do you want revenge like Yue Ying?”

Zhu Yue’s eyes softened, an emotion rarely seen. Ling Xiao wondered if he was mistaken.

“My wish is simple. Initially, I just wanted those who looked down on me to see me differently, to make those who rejected me regret it. I used to think that not being looked down upon was everything in life. Now, I realize how naive that was.”

Zhen He came down holding a box. As he and Zhu Yue faced each other, Ling Xiao understood the source of that rare tenderness.

“Due to my inherent flaws, after awakening, I’ve always been ridiculed and bullied. Even when I willingly offered my heart’s blood, no one wanted it. You were the first person who paid attention to me without mocking. Even knowing you were deceiving me, I was happy.”

Facing Zhu Yue’s heartfelt confession, Zhen He remained silent; his expression looked like he was smiling but not.

“Once Yue Ying possesses Ling Xiao’s body, he will surely begin his revenge, plunging this planet into chaos and bloodshed. Thousands of years have passed, and I’ve long regarded myself as a Tianxiu person, and the grudge of extermination was diluted by time. Now, I don’t care how others see me. I don’t want to be dragged into war. I just want to live with the person I like.” He placed his hand on Zhen He’s chest. “Can we forget about today and start over?”

“Would you still meet your first love?” Zhen He raised an eyebrow.

The previously gentle-faced Zhu Yue quickly turned cold. “Of course, I spent so much time and laid so many plans just for this moment. I want him to regret, to experience unbearable pain.”

His words were delivered with such vehemence that it was as if he were a completely different person from a moment ago.

But in the blink of an eye, he smiled sweetly again.

“After this is over, let’s go to another planet, away from all this, alright?”

After a moment, Zhen He responded to him, “Alright.”

A simple answer made Zhu Yue smile brightly. He tiptoed and tightly hugged Zhen He’s neck. The person being hugged didn’t move, with an expression on his face that Ling Xiao couldn’t understand.

Ling Xiao was startled by Zhu Yue’s unpredictable behavior and began to feel some sympathy for Zhen He. Living with such a neurotic master would drive anyone insane sooner or later; no wonder he wanted to break the blood pact.

After the embrace, Zhu Yue let go of Zhen He and waved at Ling Xiao.

“Ying Feng, have you seen enough?”

Ling Xiao stiffened, realizing that Zhu Yue had known all along. What he had said wasn’t only meant for himself but also for Ying Feng.

“Is your mental strength still enough? Let me help you save some.”

Zhu Yue connected a video call with the ship where Ying Feng was, and Ying Feng’s image appeared on the screen.

Ling Xiao finally saw Ying Feng again. Through the screen, their deep gray eyes met, and even though it had only been two days, it felt like an eternity.

“Ying Feng!”

He exclaimed happily and then saw a small head squeezing onto the screen below. “Xiao Hui! Are you okay?”

Xiao Hui whined anxiously and pitifully in response, extending its right claw to fiddle with the screen, not understanding why Ling Xiao was behind a mirror.

Ying Feng leaned over and placed his hand on the screen, his thumb tracing the edge of Ling Xiao’s eye. He had lost the ability of his bond, but fortunately, the soul crystal that allowed sensory sharing still worked. Because of that, he felt all the pain that Ling Xiao endured, yet he was powerless to help.

Zhu Yue wasn’t pleased with their loving gaze and rudely stepped in between. “We meet again. Last time I sought you out, you said you were busy. Do you have time now?”

Ying Feng withdrew his hand. “I don’t recall doing anything that would warrant such calculated revenge from you.”

“Of course you don’t remember. Every word I’ve said to you is probably forgotten, right? But no worries. At least I can help you recall one incident.”

“Once in Bikong, I was attacked by a senior student. You drove him away, but I ended up stabbing you. Your blood spilled onto the ground and attracted the nearby blood. You were frantic, asking whose blood it was. That was the first time I saw you so unsettled. Do you remember?”

Listening in, Ling Xiao was taken aback. Blood attracting each other was a sign of past life partners recognizing one another. So, Ying Feng had once encountered this person in school, but why hadn’t he searched for him?

“I remember,” Ying Feng answered coldly. “You said you didn’t see.”

“What if I said I lied to you?”

Ying Feng narrowed his eyes.

“I knew whose blood it was and later found out why blood attracts. You were so desperate for the truth back then. Don’t you want to know who your lover from the past life was?”

The pain in Ling Xiao’s heart surpassed his physical pain. He knew of Ying Feng’s obsession. Even though he had buried the peach core, he surely wanted the truth.

He was prepared to hear an affirmative response but heard Ying Feng calmly reply:

“No.”

Ling Xiao looked up sharply, meeting Ying Feng’s gaze, unable to believe he would pass up this opportunity.

“Why not?” Zhu Yue tilted his head. “Ling Xiao will soon be no more, and you’ve regained your freedom. Don’t you want to take this chance and find your old love from a past life?”

“No,” Ying Feng said slowly. “No matter who was by my side in the past, in this life, my only Qizi is Ling Xiao.”

Zhu Yue hung his head low, letting out a few eerie laughs.

Ying Feng was displeased. “Why do you laugh?”

“What if I told you that the person you’ve been desperately searching for is Ling Xiao?”

Both of their expressions shifted.

“Impossible.” Ying Feng denied it first, as they had clearly tested it when they were at the base.

“I don’t know why you’re so certain, but I swear by what I’ve seen with my own eyes.”

Zhu Yan took a box from Zhen He and placed it on the table, rotating it 180 degrees towards Ying Feng. “To prove I’m not lying, I’ve carefully prepared this for you.”

He opened the box, and a cold mist billowed out. After the mist dissipated, two test tubes were revealed side by side.

“What’s this?” Ying Feng didn’t understand. Ling Xiao couldn’t see due to the obstruction and was eager to know what it was.

“I have been looking forward to this day for a year.” Zhu Yue slowly pulled out the test tubes. “Tai Yin once drew blood samples from everyone on Tianxiu to type-match with Yue Ying’s blood. This is what I specially asked Xing Lou to retain: the blood samples of you two in your fledgling state.”

He lifted the test tubes, and indeed, their names were labeled on them.

“One of the conditions to verify a past life relationship is that the Qizi must be in its fledgling state.”

Zhu Yan elegantly poured the blood from the two test tubes onto the smooth table, and the two blood puddles remained still.

Ying Feng’s face darkened. “There’s no change at all.”

“Why the hurry? It’s not time yet.” Zhu Yue raised his right hand in the air intoxicatingly, stimulating a gesture of holding hands. “Back then, he just grabbed the dagger with his bare hand like this. I watched his blood drip in front of me…”

Ling Xiao’s face turned pale. He remembered that incident when he was injured trying to save Zhu Yue, mistakenly thinking that Ying Feng was concerned about Zhu Yue.

“Your long-sought lover from the past life will soon be revealed. Are you excited?”

“Unfortunately, whether it’s a lover from a past life or your patterner in this life, you will end up with nothing.”

Zhu Yue walked a few steps away from the window. They were currently on the dark side of the Tianxiu planet, shielded from the rays of the burning sun.

“People often associate darkness with despair and dawn with hope.”

“Ying Feng, from now on, every time you see sunlight, I want you to feel endless despair.”

He closed his eyes, spread his arms, and as the spaceship moved out of the shadow of the Tianxiu planet, the light of the distant star passed over the planet’s curve and defiantly squeezed in from the gap under his arm, shining on the two dark red puddles on the table.

It seemed as if the sunlight gently blew a breath into the air, and one of the blood samples began to slowly flow towards the other. This bond from their previous lives resisted the purification pool’s cleansing and had remained for twenty years. Those unforgettable memories still lingered in their instincts. Upon seeing their past life lover, they wanted to get closer without any reservations.

The blood on the screen eventually merged intimately. Interwoven and inseparable.

Ying Feng’s face turned pale. He staggered, supporting himself on the console.

Zhu Yue covered his face, his shoulders shaking, a suppressed laugh coming from deep within his throat. Gradually, the laughter grew louder and more piercing. After waiting for so long, he could finally return all the frustration this person gave him. He laughed like a madman until the entire spaceship was enveloped by his distorted laughter, drowning out all other sounds.

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 104

Ling Xiao finally realized that the Lan Sheng before him was no longer receptive to anyone’s words. He wondered what Yue Ying had told Lan Sheng to make him believe so stubbornly that Ling Xiao was deep in trouble and desperately needed saving. Faced with this brainwashed version of Lan Sheng, Ling Xiao felt profound disappointment.

“When you jumped off the rooftop, it was because you refused to accept being a Qizi.”

“Do you think I should do the same, to match the Ling Xiao you have in your mind?”

“Lan Sheng, do you remember? Before you left, you warned me to always be cautious. It was your words that helped me survive the chaotic period. During my darkest days, you were the sole reason I held on. I’ve always tried to move in the direction you pointed out. Why did you end up right where you started?”

In response to Ling Xiao’s questions, Lan Sheng remained unmoved. “I won’t listen to anything you say now. Once you regain your free will, we can discuss other matters.”

As he turned to leave, Ling Xiao wanted to chase after him but was stopped. In desperation, Ling Xiao shouted, “By being so obstinate, are you doing justice to Ping Zong, who reincarnated for you?”

Lan Sheng hesitated for a moment but quickly left without looking back.

Ling Xiao was left alone. He was uncertain about the structure of this prison, where one’s mental powers were completely dispersed and couldn’t be focused. Considering that the original owner of this starship was Tai Yin, no technology would come as a surprise.

A glint appeared in the depths of his consciousness, and Ling Xiao quickly focused. He had sensed Ying Feng trying to connect with him using a soul crystal earlier but had pretended not to notice due to the presence of others. He knew Ying Feng would try to connect again.

“Ling Xiao, can you hear me? Blink twice if you can.”

Ying Feng’s vision blinked out for two seconds, signaling Ling Xiao’s acknowledgement.

“Survey your surroundings, but don’t be obvious.”

Ling Xiao subtly looked around, letting Ying Feng get a clear view.

“No enemies in sight, but there might be surveillance. Don’t talk and keep your movements minimal.”

“Other than Lan Sheng, Yue Ying, and Xing Lou, did you see anyone else?” Ying Feng asked.

Ling Xiao discreetly wrote in his palm: No.

“Do you know your approximate location?”

I only know I’m likely on the Eagle. Nothing more.

“Do you know why they kidnapped you?”

After some hesitation, Ling Xiao wrote: Yue Ying, who holds a deep grudge against us. I’m the person most easily controlled by him. He may want to use me to complete his revenge. However, I’m just speculating. How could I possibly possess such power alone?

Ying Feng frowned. “Understood. Avoid confronting Yue Ying; he’s powerful. We can’t let him directly control you. I need to reserve my energy to trace you, so I’ll have to disconnect.”

Wait!

Ling Xiao quickly wrote.

Ying Feng paused. “What is it?”

Ling Xiao hesitated, then swiftly wrote:

I can clearly sense emotions coming from Yue Ying. His hatred for us is intensifying.

It’s overpowering, overshadowing all other emotions. I fear that, over time, my will might not withstand it, and I’ll be assimilated by him.

If I do get controlled and turn against our own, please…

Kill me.

Ying Feng paused for a long while. Finally, on his own palm and also on Ling Xiao’s palm, he wrote stroke by stroke:

Okay.

Ling Xiao placed his hand over his heart, feeling its beat, believing that Ying Feng must have received the message.

Ying Feng gritted his teeth, disconnected the link, and left the lounge.

“I have rested. Let’s continue.”

Just after his connection with Ying Feng was terminated, Zhen He entered.

Ling Xiao looked at the suddenly appearing person and was momentarily stunned. It took him a while to hesitantly call out, “…Zhen He?”

Zhen He sneered coldly without answering.

Yes, how could Ling Xiao forget? He and Tai Yin were originally on the same side. What surprised Ling Xiao even more was, “Your eyes…?”

Zhen He’s face darkened instantly. “Mind your own business.”

He pressed a button, and mechanisms appeared inside the cage. Ling Xiao tried to dodge, but mechanical arms from all directions restrained him, pinning him firmly to a bed before sliding him out.

“Where are you taking me?”

Ling Xiao struggled fiercely but couldn’t move. He was pushed by Zhen He into another room. Lan Sheng, Yue Ying, Xing Lou, and all the others he had met before were there.

“What the hell do you want to do?” Ling Xiao felt uneasy. He initially thought Yue Ying wanted to control him mentally, but now it seemed otherwise.

“I hope you’d be a bit quieter,” Yue Ying said. “Controlling you is easy for me, but I don’t want you to face the most important moment of your life without knowing.”

“What important moment? I don’t understand what you’re talking about!”

As Ling Xiao tried to buy time, he discreetly exerted force, but the restraints held him tight. If only he had a soul crystal now.

Yue Ying reached out, and Xing Lou handed him a bottle containing a soul. He released the soul, holding it in his palm.

“What is that?” Ling Xiao asked.

Ignoring the question, Yue Ying said, “No wonder he’s a scientific genius. Tai Yin studied for decades and finally found a way to break the blood pact. Unfortunately, he didn’t live to see this day.”

Ling Xiao was taken aback. “What do you mean?”

“To break the blood pact, one of the requirements is a newborn soul. Nowadays, a soul matures only once every hundred years. If Shang Yang had waited another nine months, perhaps he’d be the one successfully breaking the blood pact now.”

“You’re using a soul to break the blood pact?” Ling Xiao was in disbelief. “Even if it’s not fully formed, it’s still a life!”

Yue Ying laughed coldly, seemingly dismissing the idea of such a “life”. To him, it was merely a man-made product, no different from computers or tablets.

Ling Xiao angrily confronted the others, “Even if Yue Ying isn’t one of us, you are of the Tianxiu race. Do you just stand by and watch him kill our kin?”

“I am not like you. Don’t get it wrong,” Xing Lou said calmly. “I will always stand with the true Tianxiu people.”

Ling Xiao turned to Zhen He, who was intently staring at the soul in Yue Ying’s hand, his eyes filled with a hint of greed.

Lastly, he looked at Lan Sheng. “Lan Sheng, even you…?”

Lan Sheng turned his head away.

Ling Xiao continued to question Yue Ying, “I don’t understand, why do you want me to break the blood pact? What’s in it for you?”

“You’ll understand.” Yue Ying handed the soul to Xing Lou, who carefully held it and placed it into a peculiar container.

“Stop!” Ling Xiao shouted.

A piercing scream sounded. All the Tianxiu people present covered their ears, except for Ling Xiao, who was immobilized and could only turn his head away in pain, his face contorted in agony.

Yue Ying looked at them curiously. “What’s wrong with you?”

It took Xing Lou a long time to put his hand down, almost having his eardrums pierced by the scream, “Didn’t you hear?”

“Hear what?”

“A scream.”

Yue Ying shook his head, looking puzzled.

Ling Xiao finally recovered, breathing slightly due to holding his breath for too long.

“So, before a soul disappears, it screams,” Yue Ying said, as if discovering something new. “How interesting.”

Ling Xiao could only glare at him; this person didn’t equate a soul with life at all.

The soul in the container had disappeared, turning into a bright blue liquid. Xing Lou drew it into a syringe. The liquid filled less than two-thirds of the syringe, yet it caused a soul to completely vanish from this world.

“It’s ready.” As Xing Lou turned around, a figure flashed in front of him.

Zhen He had already assessed the strength of the people present. Xing Lou and Lan Sheng weren’t his match. As long as he didn’t look into Yue Ying’s eyes, he wouldn’t be controlled. This was what Zhu Yue taught him.

Xing Lou seemed to anticipate someone trying to snatch it and quickly jumped back, but Zhen He managed to kick his wrist. The syringe containing the soul liquid was thrown into the air, and Zhen He teleported to catch it.

The situation changed dramatically. Neither Ling Xiao nor Lan Sheng expected Zhen He to act so suddenly. One was surprised, and the other wanted to snatch it back, but they couldn’t match his speed. They could only watch as Zhen He turned his wrist in mid-air and was about to inject himself as he landed.

However, in a split second, his movement halted, his right hand trembling from exertion.

Ling Xiao was all too familiar with this scene. When a Qizhu uses mind control, a Qizi reacts this way.

Xing Lou and Yue Ying, however, seemed unsurprised, as if they had anticipated all of this.

Struggling, Zhen He looked up to see Zhu Yue slowly descending the stairs.

“You said… you didn’t want… to show up here…” He had held on for so long, thinking Zhu Yue had let down his guard. He had believed Zhu Yue’s claim of not wanting to see Yue Ying.

“If I hadn’t said that, how would I know if you intended to betray me?” Zhu Yue approached, effortlessly taking the syringe from his hand. “You’ve waited for this moment for a long time, haven’t you? I just wanted to test if, after all this time, you still wanted to end our bond.”

Zhu Yue’s eyes genuinely showed disappointment. “You really let me down.”

Releasing Zhen He from his control, Zhen He stared at him with resentment but was powerless against him.

Xing Lou, who once promised to be on his side, had even helped Zhu Yue test him. It seemed that no one could be trusted in this world except oneself.

Xing Lou sensed Zhen He’s anger but deliberately avoided his gaze. Zhen He was no longer of value to him, but he still needed Zhu Yue for something crucial.

Zhu Yue turned around, and Ling Xiao, who had found him familiar from the beginning, now stared in shock.

“Zhu Yue?”

“Surprising, isn’t it?” Zhu Yue’s demeanor had completely changed, icy cold. “I never thought we’d meet under these circumstances.”

“You’re Zhen He’s Qizhu?” Ling Xiao looked back and forth between them, unable to believe they were together.

“It’s all thanks to you. If you hadn’t formed a pact with Ying Feng, how could I become someone else’s Qizhu?”

The other person he spoke of looked like he wanted to kill him with just a glance.

“Are you done?” Yue Ying interrupted their conversation. “Who would have thought so many people would fight over this little thing. Does anyone else need it?”

He asked Lan Sheng, “What about you? You probably need it the most here. With one injection, you won’t have to suffer anymore. You can find someone to form a new pact and become a Qizhu. Isn’t that good?”

Lan Sheng had been nervous when he saw Zhen He take the syringe, but now he calmly refused.

“I don’t need it. I promised Ping Zong to stay alive. These eyes are our last connection, and I don’t want to lose them. But you promised to free Ling Xiao. Don’t go back on your word.”

“Of course.” Yue Ying surveyed the room. “So, no one else has any objections?”

“I do!” Ling Xiao shouted.

Yue Ying laughed. “There’s a saying in our country: those who desire something never get it, and those who don’t often do. Isn’t that right?” He looked at Ling Xiao and Zhen He.

The current state of Ying Feng was a bit concerning. Due to the prolonged consumption of his mental power, large beads of sweat were sliding down his cheeks, dripping onto the control panel. Under his palms, the radar’s circle of light was gradually shrinking.

“We’re almost locked onto the target—only 20% left!” someone reported.

The fleet was moving at full speed towards the area Ying Feng had marked, but 20% was still a vast region. To find Ling Xiao, the area needed to be narrowed down even further.

Yue Ying gestures towards Zhu Yue. “Get on with it.”

Zhu Yue walked step by step towards the immobilized Ling Xiao, with the blue light slowly flowing in the syringe he held.

Ling Xiao was struggling with all his might, Lan Sheng was anxiously watching, and Zhen He, under the double control of Yue Ying and Zhu Yue, couldn’t move at all.

“I’m so glad that I get to end this for you.” Zhu Yue held up the syringe, pushing out a bit of the liquid. “You know, I’ve prepared a special gift for Ying Feng. I believe he will love it.”

“We’re very close!” A voice came from the Burning Shadow, invigorating everyone.

Ying Feng closed his eyes, concentrating all his mental energy in his palms. His mental power was being rapidly drained, but he couldn’t stop now. His Qizi was still waiting for him.

Ling Xiao!

Ling Xiao shivered; he heard Ying Feng’s voice, not through shared senses but through a soulful connection. Ying Feng was nearby!

I can hear you! He wished he could tell Ying Feng this, but he couldn’t make a sound.

Ying Feng’s voice continuously reached him.

Ling Xiao, hang in there. I’ll find you very soon.

Ling Xiao closed his eyes. I believe you. No matter where I am, you can always find me.

The pain of the needle piercing his skin reached him. It turned out the temperature of the soul was also cold.

“Say goodbye to your Qizhu.” Along with Zhu Yue’s voice, it felt like something was moving away from him.

Suddenly, the signal on the radar disappeared. Everyone looks at Ying Feng. They were so close to success. Could it be that his mental power is already exhausted?

Ying Feng opens his eyes, equally puzzled. Something had gone missing from his life—something that was within reach just a second ago.

The pilot closest to him cries out in surprise:

“Ah, your eyes…”

Confused, Ying Feng turned around, and now everyone in the room saw it: the blackness in his eyes was slowly receding, like clear water dissolving thick ink, as night welcomed dawn. When the change finally stopped, all that remained were the ash-gray eyes characteristic of a fledgling.

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 103

Ling Xiao was dumbstruck. Ever since he first learned of the existence of the Genetic Center, he had harbored doubts about his origins. However, he never imagined a version like “a magpie’s nest taken over by a dove*”, which completely exceeded his capacity to accept.

*(鹊巢鸠占) Idiom referring to someone taking advantage of another’s achievements or taking someone’s else’s place. It comes from nature, where doves (turtledoves/cuckoo) can’t build a nest and often take over a magpie’s nest, laying their own eggs in them.

Ignoring his astonishment, Yue Ying continued, “Unexpected, isn’t it? The initial reason for creating beings like you was out of desperate self-defense. Hence, the first command in your genetic code is loyalty to the royal family and defense of the nation. This command takes precedence over all others.”

“In the beginning, you were created as war machines, devoid of human emotions, and only obeyed unconditionally. But over time, we grew dependent on you and also started to trust you. We wanted to share our wisdom with you, leading to the initiation of the gene transplant program.”

“Gene transplant?”

“It means extracting cells, blood, and bone marrow from a Tianxiu person and then transplanting them into another artificial being. This allows the recipient not only to possess human wisdom but also to have a telepathic connection with the donor.”

“So, in the era I lived in, anyone of significant stature had their own sentient lifeform, or, to put it in current terms, a living personal mech.”

Ling Xiao’s grip on the railing tightened. “So I am your…”

Lifting his gaze, Yue Ying gave a mysteriously enigmatic smile. “Perhaps you’ve forgotten what codename people used for you. In ancient Tianxiu, someone like you, who received a gene transplant from me, was referred to as my…”

His lips barely moved, whispering the word “Qizi”.

Ling Xiao felt as if he had been struck hard in the chest. Yue Ying’s words overturned his entire understanding of life. Yet, feeling Yue Ying’s genuine intention confirmed every word the latter spoke was the truth.

“Shocking, isn’t it?” Yue Ying remarked nonchalantly. “For all these years, you’ve obliterated all the culture we left behind, modified or destroyed all traces. You’ve even given new meanings to terms like Qizi.”

“Haven’t you noticed that sometimes you find two completely dissimilar people very alike, while others don’t see it that way? That’s because your genes come from me. Every royal successor can recognize the appearance of reincarnated souls. Although you lack this ability, you’ve retained a hint of intuition, which is undeniable evidence.”

Ling Xiao looked up in astonishment towards Xing Lou, recalling Ying Feng, finally understanding the origins of his past illusions.

However, more questions remained. “If you say I am your Qizi, then what am I to Ying Feng? The coming-of-age ceremony couldn’t have been our invention, could it?”

Yue Ying shook his head. “In that era, the so-called Qizi, as known today, didn’t exist. The one who lost in the coming-of-age ceremony had to die. Even if they didn’t die during the ceremony, they would be forced to during the chaotic period that followed, ensuring only the victor matures.”

“Why!” Ling Xiao gripped the railing tightly. His feelings now were incredibly conflicted; his innate anger toward Yue Ying’s race and the hatred Yue Ying had for the Tianxiu people intertwined. He was torn between two sides, knowing one wasn’t his own but unable to separate himself from it.

“Why?” Yue Ying echoed Ling Xiao’s question. “Nature practices survival of the fittest. The weak are naturally eliminated. Just like the Tianxiu people, with all their wisdom but no strength, were slaughtered in large numbers. After creating you, those who were eliminated were our enemies. You are not a product of nature, so of course, the selection was made by us who created you.”

“Those of you who received gene transplants gained wisdom. Sadly, wisdom and emotion often come hand in hand. When bestowing the former, the latter naturally emerges. We didn’t mind you having human feelings, but redundant emotions often become a hindrance in war. We needed the best warriors, not just in wisdom and strength but also in ruthlessness towards the enemy. Only those who can even eliminate their own kind meet our criteria.”

“Laws, duties, love… Over thousands of years, you’ve tried various ways to increase the survival rate of the Qizi, which goes against your very genetics. So, when additional conditions aren’t present, people still act on instinct. Without legal restrictions, bonds of love, or a sense of duty, a Qizhu will still relentlessly push the Qizi to the brink of death. You, of all people, should be very clear about this, shouldn’t you?”

Ling Xiao’s hands were trembling. He felt as if he were a plaything created for others to choose and filter. Defeat in the coming-of-age ceremony meant death. No wonder everyone desperately fought for their life against those they loved.

Not undergoing the ceremony meant the dispersion of one’s soul, whereas participating meant either death or becoming a killer of one’s own kind. Ying Feng’s actions, Lan Sheng’s despair, and the torment he suffered day and night—to these people, these were merely a few gene segments. They added them as they pleased to satisfy their own needs, disregarding the pain of others. What was more laughable was that they originally couldn’t feel pain—even that ability was given by Yue Ying’s clan.

I’ve given you pain, so you must endure it. You have no other choice.

Yue Ying’s voice continued, but it had become background noise to Ling Xiao. He hung his head low, torn between two opposing views.

“You drove out all invaders, preventing any enemy incursions, becoming heroes who saved Tianxiu. We joyfully awaited your triumphant return after you eliminated the last enemy, but instead, we received betrayal. The rebels not only exterminated the Tianxiu people who created you but also killed all those loyal to the royal family. They forced them to be reborn and brainwashed them to serve the so-called ‘Republic’. It’s amusing that you, who consider yourselves Tianxiu people, were born for war. Without war, you were bored. So, you turned defense into aggression, attacking neighboring countries until every different race on the planet was forced to migrate. Then, you expanded your battleground to other planets. Although the Tianxiu people no longer exist, the man-made beings we left behind, who don’t produce but only plunder, are feared and hated by everyone. No one can check and balance you, no one dares approach this planet, and the name ‘Tianxiu people’ has become the nightmare of the entire galaxy.”

As Yue Ying’s hatred intensified, Ling Xiao felt like his head was about to explode.

“Stop talking…” He managed to say through gritted teeth.

But Yue Ying didn’t stop. “However, it seems someone secretly added a command to the soul traction behind the royal family’s back. Honestly, I was surprised when I first found out. But now, thinking back, their move was absolutely correct. They foresaw potential future dangers and took preventive measures.”

“Without planets to invade and being full of emotions, you started playing house. You tried your best to modify codes—loyalty to spouses, the need for both parties to mate… I knew that one day you would not be satisfied with this and turn your attention to central system modification rights. Thanks to your overestimation of your abilities, I was able to see the light of day again and have a chance to seek justice for my people.”

Ying Feng’s hand trembled, almost dropping the soul crystal in his palm. Fu Yao quickly stepped forward. “How is it? Has Ling Xiao awakened?”

“What did you see?”

Long Yin also just arrived. The soul was stolen by Yue Ying, who could easily control the Tianxiu people. He knew about the supreme power of the ancient royal family but didn’t expect such immense energy. Earlier generations deliberately altered history, making the truth blurry and inadvertently aiding Yue Ying.

Shocked by the truth he perceived through the Five Senses Sharing soul crystal, Ying Feng noticed dozens of eyes intently watching him. He was unsure if he should reveal the truth here. The revelation would certainly cause societal unrest.

Ying Feng clenched his fists. Since all his five senses were shared, he also felt the cold sweat in Ling Xiao’s palms that was clenching the railing.

“We can’t contact Ling Xiao now, or it will attract the enemy’s attention.” Ying Feng changed the subject, recalling the environment Ling Xiao was in. “They’re on the Eagle, the same one belonging to Tai Yin. There were two people I saw. Besides Yue Ying, there’s a fledgling. He’s a student from Bikong named… Xing Lou? I saw him once in the history museum…”

Ying Feng suddenly realized. “He was looking at the ancient royal emblem—the one that was stolen!”

Fu Yao and Long Yin exchanged a glance, quickly ordering, “Everyone aboard, head to outer space, and locate the Eagle.”

“No matter how vast the universe is or how small the target, we must find it!”

Ling Xiao gradually recovered from his internal struggle, perhaps because Yue Ying’s emotions settled after venting, making him less agitated.

“But there’s something I don’t understand,” he said breathlessly. “What do you want me to do? Turn against my brethren and serve you?”

Just as Yue Ying was about to speak, he caught sight of Lan Sheng entering. He changed his intended reply.

“I merely fulfilled a request from your friend, and given that you are bound to me, I kindly helped you sever a relationship you shouldn’t have had.”

Ling Xiao had a bad feeling. “What relationship?”

Yue Ying, not wanting to discuss it in front of Lan Sheng, said, “I’ve spoken enough and am tired. You seem unwell too. Rest, and you’ll know soon.”

He patted the hand that Xing Lou rested on his shoulder, and the latter then pushed him away. Only then did Ling Xiao remember that he hadn’t asked questions about Xing Lou. If his intuition was right and he truly was an ancestor of the Tianxiu people, how did he retain these memories?

At that moment, Lan Sheng walked over and considerately brought water for Ling Xiao, but the latter didn’t touch it.

“You’ve sweated a lot. Drink some,” he said.

Without Lan Sheng mentioning it, Ling Xiao hadn’t realized that his back was soaked in cold sweat. Even so, he didn’t want to accept Lan Sheng’s kindness.

“Do you know what you are doing? Why are you joining those people?”

Lan Sheng quietly took the water back. “The historic grudges you mentioned have nothing to do with me. I am a superficial person who only cares about those around me. When my friend was treated badly, of course, I wanted to help him.”

“How many times do I need to tell you? Ying Feng may have done something extreme, but that was a long time ago. Didn’t you hear what Yue Ying just said? Even I, as the person involved, have let go. Why can’t you?”

“You’ve let it go because you’re a Qizi. You’ve been brainwashed by this system, and you can’t truly see your inner feelings. Unless the blood bond is broken, your so-called feelings are self-deception. Now, you just compromise and evade, losing your independent personality.”

Ling Xiao couldn’t hold back his anger. “You talk about breaking the blood bond, but do you know how? I’ve seen someone lose an entire arm trying to break his bond! He paid such a price, yet his goal was unachieved. Do you want me to end up like that?”

Lan Sheng was unmoved. “This is why I brought you here. What others can’t achieve, Yue Ying can. He promised me that he will help you regain your freedom and free you from Ying Feng’s control forever.”

Ling Xiao was taken aback. Was this what Yue Ying was referring to? Lan Sheng’s words sounded absurd yet somewhat credible. Being their creator, Yue Ying might indeed know how to break the blood bond.

“Even if that’s the case, they have no reason to do this for you. They must have other motives,” Ling Xiao anxiously persuaded. “Lan Sheng, you’re being used. Think about it, they want to take revenge for the ancient Tianxiu people and eliminate our kind.”

Lan Sheng replied calmly, “If I can truly find the old you, even if I’m used, it’s worth it.”

Ling Xiao, in anger, slammed the railing in front of him. “Why are you so obsessed with the roles of the Qizhu and the Qizi? I now understand what Ping Zong said. If two people want to be together, one must compromise. Ping Zong doesn’t want to be the Qizi either, but he’s willing to do it for you. I don’t want to be the Qizi either, but if the cost is to be separated from Ying Feng, I’m willing!”

Lan Sheng stared at him with disappointment. “The Ling Xiao I knew was proud and confident, never bowing down to anyone, no matter how powerful the opponent, he dared to speak bravely. Not like now, even saying he’s willing to be the Qizi. To survive, giving up dignity, self-respect, and living in humility.”

“You’re not the Ling Xiao I knew,” he said, word by word.

“The Ling Xiao I knew is dead.”

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<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 102

Heng He numbly pushed the wheelchair forward. The rest of the base’s staff were taken aback upon seeing him with Yue Ying and tried to intervene. However, after making eye contact with Yue Ying, they all respectfully bowed their heads, seemingly acknowledging his departure.

Without any obstacles, they smoothly exited the genetic center’s main entrance. Yue Ying casually pointed to a flying vehicle. Heng He helped him inside and took the pilot’s seat.

“Go above ground,” Yue Ying ordered.

“Yes.” Heng He started the engine, and the ship glided through a long tunnel, emerging above the base.

Yue Ying sat by the window. It had been thousands of years since he had seen the real world. Xing Lou had created the Tianyuan Network for him, allowing his consciousness to roam freely within it, but he couldn’t cross this dimension. Now he could finally see the world with his own eyes, but without the unique vision of the Tianxiu people, he could only perceive tiny lights emanating from the ground in the dark of night.

“Where should we go next?” Heng He, who was now completely under Yue Ying’s control, asked.

“Just wait here. Someone will come for me.”

Not long after Yue Ying spoke, a medium-sized ship deactivated its cloaking. Their small vessel was easily drawn inside. The person coming to fetch Yue Ying wasn’t Xing Lou but Zhen He. Zhen He’s gaze lingered on Heng He for only a moment before returning to Yue Ying. This was his first time seeing Yue Ying’s physical form. Whether it was the golden hair or the deep blue eyes, both were symbols of the ancient royal lineage of the Tianxiu people.

“Do we still need this man?” Zhen He asked, referring to Heng He.

“No. Let him go.” Yue Ying dismissed him effortlessly. “Where is Xing Lou?”

“He will meet us on the Eagle.”

“Alright,” Yue Ying instructed. “Take me to the Soul Tree.”

The ship flew above the Soul Tree, where the newborn soul may mature at any moment. Nowhere was more heavily guarded. Any unidentified flying object, even in stealth mode, would be detected by infrared scanners. However, Yue Ying was indifferent. As the ship’s door opened, he reached out towards the Soul Tree.

“Come to me, my warrior. I need you.”

The soul on the Soul Tree trembled, breaking free and flying straight to Yue Ying. A blue orb of light danced around him, casting a blue glow on his face.

The guards below couldn’t possibly allow this. In an instant, they moved to attack. Zhen He calmly stepped back, curious to see just how powerful this seemingly frail Yue Ying was against Tianxiu’s elite forces. However, Yue Ying did nothing but gaze sternly at them and commanded, “Stand down!”

The well-trained soldiers, as if receiving a supreme directive, simultaneously halted and respectfully bowed before Yue Ying.

Zhen He outwardly remained calm, but he was inwardly astonished. It was no wonder Xing Lou had said that Yue Ying alone could handle it all. After witnessing Yue Ying’s power, he felt a mix of respect and caution towards this seemingly fragile individual, deciding it’s best not to provoke him without good reason.

Yue Ying extended his hand to Zhen He. “Hand it over.”

Zhen He passed him a cylindrical glass container of moderate size. After capturing the obediently entering souls, Yue Ying sealed the container.

“Alright, take me back.”

Zhen He pushed his wheelchair away from the door. As it closed behind them, the ship took off, leaving the elite squad below without a single one attempting to intercept.

“Where to next?”

“Let’s pick up Lan Sheng. He won’t get far on his own.”

Yue Ying handed the bottle to Zhen He, closed his eyes, and rested. Even this small act seemed to have drained him.

“Wake me when they arrive.”

Zhen He held the soul-filled container, finding it hard to believe that they effortlessly obtained Tianxiu’s most precious commodity. Sitting in the command seat was Zhu Yue, who had a special connection with Yue Ying. Without his powers, Zhu Yue was barely stronger than Yue Ying, but at least he could move freely, even if he was extraordinarily weak.

“Got it?” Hearing footsteps, Zhu Yue asked without turning his head.

Zhen He knew he was asking rhetorically, so instead of answering, he counter-asked, “Why didn’t you go see your fellow kin?”

Zhu Yue couldn’t help but laugh. “Because I am now one of you. I don’t want to risk being controlled by someone when I’m unaware.”

“How can one avoid being controlled?”

“It’s simple.” Zhu Yue casually responded, looking straight ahead. “Don’t look into his eyes. Better yet, cover your ears too. He can’t even stand up on his own; a slight touch could end his life. What do you have to fear from him?”

Zhen He silently took note of his words.

Zhu Yue locked on a certain objective, and the spaceship began its descent.

“We’ve found him,” he said with a slight smirk. “Our prize. Without him, all our previous efforts would have been in vain.”

……

Fu Yao’s fleet was racing here at full speed. Ying Feng consumed too much mental power all at once and was forced to stop and rest. But despite this, he still persistently tried to use his mental vision and sensory sharing again and again, just hoping to quickly find out Ling Xiao’s whereabouts.

The person sent to investigate Lan Sheng has also returned with a report. “The person who took Ling Xiao is called Lan Sheng, confirmed to be a patient at the Disease Control Center. He was admitted a year ago and signed a ‘Rehabilitation Death Agreement’ with the center. The primary doctor said he had been actively treated until his emotions began to change abnormally half a month ago. He escaped and went missing yesterday, and the center reported it immediately.”

“How did he escape?” Fu Yao asked.

“We’re still investigating, but we suspect an inside job.”

Fu Yao frowned deeply. He had long felt that a force was conspiring together. Even after eliminating Tai Yin and Ye Hai, this force had not disappeared. It was still lurking in the shadows, opposing the country. But he could never determine their real objective.

If Fei Jing was also a member of this force, then the most likely possibility was that this was an organization trying to break the blood pact. But why would they kidnap Ling Xiao? What secrets did he hold?

“Long Yin is going to great lengths to get control over you. What does he want you to do for him?” Fu Yao asked Ying Feng.

Ying Feng frowned. Although the experiment had ended, the confidentiality agreement was permanent. He wasn’t sure what he could disclose.

“Without the backing of a powerful force, even if Lan Sheng had a close relationship with Ling Xiao, he couldn’t have taken him away on his own. There must be accomplices. I suspect this incident is related to what Long Yin wants you to do. I know you can’t speak of it, but I will ask him myself. My student has been in trouble twice because of this, and this time, I want an answer, no matter what.”

Nie Yun’s voice came from the communication device. “Report, we’ve found the ship that kidnapped Ling Xiao!”

Fu Yao and Ying Feng both looked alarmed. “Where?”

Coordinates were quickly relayed, “Directly below us, anchored on the land, motionless.”

Fu Yao immediately ordered his main ship to approach. Soon, a stationary aircraft appeared on the surveillance screen.

Fu Yao glanced at Ying Feng, who looked solemn. There was no sign of relief or happiness in discovering the target.

“How is it?”

Ying Feng shook his head. “Ling Xiao isn’t in there.” At this distance, if Ling Xiao was inside, he would definitely sense him.

Ying Feng’s conclusion was correct. After landing and searching the aircraft, there was no sign of anyone inside or out. Ling Xiao had vanished.

“There’s still hope.” Fu Yao, seeing Ying Feng’s distressed look, tried to console him. “We’ve laid a trap in the vicinity. There’s no way they could escape.”

Then Nie Yun whispered something in Fu Yao’s ear, and his expression turned incredulous.

“What did you say?!”

Ying Feng had never seen Fu Yao this shaken before. Whatever it was, it wasn’t trivial.

“What happened?” he asked.

Fu Yao’s face now looked even worse than Ying Feng’s. “My soldiers have been collectively controlled, including those arranged by Long Yin at the base.”

“The base?”

Repeating this bad news was difficult for Fu Yao; it was a disgrace to the entire military.

“Yes, the soul has been stolen.”

Ying Feng’s eyes flickered. Given the coincidental timing—the end of the experiment, Lan Sheng’s escape, and the simultaneous disappearance of the soul and Ling Xiao—he could only think of one person associated with all of this:

Yue Ying.

……

A slender body, golden soft hair…

Ling Xiao opened his eyes, and as his blurry vision gradually focused, a clear figure appeared before him. He tried to move but found himself immobilized.

Before him, black bars divided his vision into segments. If the person in front of him wasn’t trapped in a cage, then he certainly was.

Ling Xiao tried to discern his surroundings, his eyes finally settling on a familiar emblem. He had seen it before, on the spaceship where Tai Yin was. Had he been kidnapped again to the same place? But wasn’t Tai Yin dead?

While he was pondering, another young figure appeared on the scene. Ling Xiao remembered there were many underdeveloped adults on the Eagle. So not everyone had moved to the Wolf Star; some had stayed.

However, to his astonishment, the young man who had just appeared knelt down in front of the golden-haired boy. It was only then that Ling Xiao recognized him. If he could speak now, he would’ve almost shouted out in surprise.

Xing Lou?

Xing Lou, the first-year student from Bikong Academy? The one who was afraid of spiders and looked so much like the ancestors of Tianxiu people. Why was he here?

Xing Lou knelt in front of Yue Ying, respectfully lifted his right hand, and gently kissed the back of it.

“It’s an honor to finally meet you, Your Highness.”

Yue Ying gently touched his face. “The last time I saw you in this form was four thousand years ago. I was a child then, and you were my respected elder. Time has passed so quickly. Now we look almost the same age.”

Xing Lou took out a corroded emblem from his pocket, solemnly placing it in Yue Ying’s hand, then closed his fingers around it. “I promised your ancestors to take care of their descendants, but I failed them. I’m no longer worthy of keeping this emblem.”

Yue Ying examined the emblem. Only direct male descendants of the royal family would receive such an emblem when they came of age, symbolizing their royal status. Unfortunately, he was forced into cryogenic sleep before reaching adulthood, missing out on this important rite of passage. The Tianxiu royal family soon met its decline. The founders overthrew the monarchy to establish a republic, marking a new era.

All these events happened during his long slumber and were known to him only after he awoke, with the help of electronic devices. Waking up to find his homeland gone and witnessing his coming-of-age ceremony with such a worn-out emblem, how could he not harbor deep hatred towards the one responsible?

“Xing Lou…? …Yue Ying?”

The two, deeply engrossed in their own world, finally noticed Ling Xiao, who had been unconscious but was now struggling to get up. Using the bars for support, he managed to stay upright. Seeing these two familiar figures, Ling Xiao was filled with questions.

“You’re awake,” Yue Ying signaled, and Xing Lou stood up, pushing his wheelchair closer to Ling Xiao.

“You…” Ling Xiao’s eyes darted between the two, finally settling on Yue Ying. “Who are you?”

“Don’t you remember me?” Yue Ying replied calmly. “We used to be the closest of allies. At my slightest whim, you’d do anything for me. You obeyed every command I gave, swearing eternal loyalty to me.”

Ling Xiao listened to him as if hearing an incomprehensible tale, shaking his head in disbelief.

“Have you not felt it yet?” Yue Ying placed his hand over his heart. “The telepathic connection between us. No, for you, it would be a soul connection.”

As if under Yue Ying’s influence, Ling Xiao imitated him, placing his hand on his chest. The same emotions from the man were transmitted into his mind: hatred—nothing but intense hatred, just like before, but even more potent this time.

“Who… are you exactly?”

With a calm demeanor, Yue Ying replied, “I am a Tianxiu person.”

“That’s impossible.” Ling Xiao shook his head in denial. “Your hair, your eyes, none of them match the characteristics of a Tianxiu person. Furthermore…”

His gaze landed on Yue Ying’s wheelchair. “Tianxiu people have strong bodies; they don’t get sick, and even if they get injured, they recover quickly. No one would be so weak as to not be able to stand or walk.”

“Indeed,” Yue Ying replied with a faint smile, a hint of sorrow evident in his expression. “The genuine Tianxiu people, while having wisdom surpassing ordinary beings, pay for it with our physical robustness. Our race, let alone the ability to attack, can’t even defend ourselves properly. We’ve been constantly bullied and oppressed by other races, enduring humiliation and disgrace.”

“And that’s why you were created, isn’t it? The strongest artificial warriors created by the Tianxiu people. We endowed you with intelligence almost on par with ours, extraordinary combat abilities superior to any other race, and even an immortal body that doesn’t exist in nature to help us defend against enemies. Yet you all—you annihilated your creators, eradicated all opponents, and took over our planet for thousands of years. You rewrote Tianxiu history, establishing your own civilization—a civilization built on lies. Tell me, have you been happy all these millennia?”

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 101

Ying Feng hurriedly walked through the campus. As he turned a corner, the dormitory building came into view. Instinctively, he looked up at his dormitory window.

When he saw that it was empty, Ying Feng felt his action was a bit unnecessary. How could Ling Xiao just be idly waiting by the window for him? Today was his hyperactive day; if he wasn’t online, he must be playing games with Red Head. However, they would meet soon, so with that thought, Ying Feng quickened his pace.

“Ying Feng.”

An unfamiliar voice sounded from behind him. Ying Feng stopped and turned to see who was calling him. A man stepped out from behind a tree, standing tall and looking elegant. His peach blossom eyes were lively. Ying Feng felt he had seen the face somewhere, but it was both familiar and unfamiliar.

“Can’t remember me?” The man smirked, his smile mysterious and unreadable.

If it weren’t for the rare pale yellow hair, Ying Feng really couldn’t recall who he was. But the question triggered a memory, though Ying Feng was still unsure.

“…Zhu Yue?”

Zhu Yue’s smile deepened. “I’m honored you still remember me.”

Ying Feng skeptically sized him up. The once timid and submissive Zhu Yue had transformed into a tall, handsome young man. But more than his appearance, it was his demeanor that had changed most. This confident person in front of him was hard to associate with the timid and weak person of the past. What was even more surprising were his black eyes, filled with mockery for the Tianxiu coming-of-age ceremony.

“Why are you here?” Ying Feng noticed Zhu Yue’s uniform was clearly not from Royal Sky and wondered how he got in.

“Our school has a partnership with Royal Sky. I can come anytime.”

Ying Feng wasn’t interested in which school he was from. An unexpected reunion with an old schoolmate was common, but he had other things on his mind now and didn’t want to spend time catching up.

“You’re free to roam,” Ying Feng said, turning to leave.

But he heard Zhu Yue say from behind him, “You’re still as indifferent as ever. I came specifically to find you.”

Ying Feng glanced back. “What do you want?”

“There’s something important I want to tell you. About you.”

Ying Feng responded curtly, “I’m in a hurry. Talk later.”

He started walking again. Zhu Yue didn’t try to stop him but murmured, “You’ll regret it.”

Ying Feng hesitated for a moment, uncertain if he had heard, but continued to walk away swiftly, leaving Zhu Yue far behind. Zhu Yue wasn’t upset; after all this time without seeing Ying Feng, he was just as he had expected him to be. As he watched Ying Feng’s retreating figure disappear, Zhu Yue turned around. Another person, wearing the same uniform as Zhu Yue, stepped out from behind the tree.

Although Zhu Yue had grown taller than Zhen He, considering their initial heights, a fully grown Zhu Yue was still half a head shorter than him. Zhen He also turned out to be quite impressive in stature, no longer the lazy and carefree twenty-two-year-old he once was.

With a teasing smile, Zhu Yue approached and affectionately wrapped his arm around Zhen He’s neck. “Why? Are you jealous?”

Zhen He didn’t lower his head but looked at him with a smile that wasn’t quite a smile.

“Don’t worry, I no longer have feelings for him,” Zhu Yue said, rubbing his nose against Zhen He’s. “After all, the so-called Tianxiu are born with loyalty as their primary principle. No matter how much you’ve tried to change this over the years, it’s only shifted the object of their loyalty. You can’t eliminate this trait.”

After making a comment that outsiders wouldn’t understand, Zhu Yue turned back to the main topic. “Now, you are the only one in my heart. But the humiliation they both brought upon me, I will never forget even for a day.”

He lowered his head, a cold glint in his eyes. “I will definitely get back at them for that.”

Zhen He’s ring glittered, and he raised his hand to glance at it. “We have the person. Let’s go.”

The two vanished into the thick darkness. After the brief interlude, tranquility returned to the campus—just as it appeared on the surface.

Ying Feng could hear the calls of Xiao Hui from afar in the corridor, and the tone was alarming.

Frowning, Ying Feng used a teleportation crystal instead of walking the final distance, arriving at his door. When he barely opened it, a small gray figure darted out, rushing frantically towards the end of the corridor.

“Xiao Hui!” Ying Feng called, but Xiao Hui just ran further away. Inside the room was deathly silent, filling Ying Feng with a sense of foreboding.

Instead of entering the room, he quickly chased after Xiao Hui. The small wolf dashed down the stairs and out of the dormitory building. Its front paw was injured, leaving sporadic blood spots on the ground. Ying Feng was horrified seeing the blood, but Xiao Hui ran on, ignoring its pain. Following it to the landing pad, he saw Xiao Hui circling around a black object on the ground, sniffing desperately and whimpering continuously, as if a clue was lost.

Ying Feng picked up the object; it was Ling Xiao’s personal terminal. The terminal was here, but the owner was nowhere to be found.

Xiao Hui, in desperation, raised its head and cried out to Ying Feng. Ying Feng closed his eyes, his consciousness rapidly spreading in all directions, meticulously searching every nook and cranny. Finally, at the edge of a light source, he detected Ling Xiao’s trace.

Judging from the internal environment, it was a civilian aircraft. However, it was fully sealed, with the cockpit and the passenger cabin separated. Ling Xiao was lying unconscious in the back cabin, with another person sitting beside him.

Unlike Zhu Yue, who had undergone significant changes due to growth, Ying Feng immediately recognized the person. It was Lan Sheng, Ling Xiao’s friend from their days in Bikong. Ying Feng recalled how he had grabbed Lan Sheng when he had once jumped off a rooftop, witnessing him cut off a corner of his sleeve before plummeting from the sky.

However, he later heard that Lan Sheng was sent to a Disease Control Center. Why had he suddenly appeared, and why had he taken Ling Xiao?

Ling Xiao’s location was now beyond the range of teleportation and summoning. Ying Feng’s mental vision’s greatest limitation wasn’t being able to transcend the space in which the Qizi resided. So, Ying Feng couldn’t see the external environment of the aircraft or determine Ling Xiao’s location.

He tried to mentally call out to him.

Ling Xiao, Ling Xiao…!

His calls echoed into nothingness.

However, Lan Sheng suddenly moved. Ying Feng watched him access an electronic screen and slowly type on a virtual keyboard. One by one, the words formed a complete message.

[I’ve heard you can see this. I can tell you my intentions.]

[I’ve heard about everything you’ve done to him. The mental trauma he’s suffered is because of you.]

[I know the pain of being a pact-maker better than anyone. Ling Xiao is my best friend. I can’t let him follow in my footsteps and continue to lose his personality this way.]

[Ling Xiao shouldn’t be your or anyone’s Qizi. He deserves a better life, to become a Qizhu, or to enjoy freedom.]

[His feelings for you aren’t love. It’s just the typical loyalty and obedience of the Tianxiu people. Once the blood pact is removed, he’ll find himself again, free from your shackles.]

[I won’t let you find him. You’d better give up now. If possible, I wish all the suffering he’s experienced could happen to you. Then you’d know the unforgivable mistake you’ve made. Sadly, it’s already too late.]

The vision abruptly cut off, and the aircraft had escaped the range that Ying Feng’s mental vision could track, and even the last clue to Ling Xiao was lost.

Without a word, Ying Feng contacted Fu Yao, briefly explaining the situation. Without hesitation, Fu Yao immediately led his fleet to the scene, picking up Ying Feng onto his flagship.

“Do you have any other clues?” Fu Yao asked as soon as he saw him.

“None. The mental vision had already been cut off before, and the soul communication has just become ineffective.” Ying Feng presented a soul crystal. “Our trust value had reached one hundred percent, but now this is also useless.”

“That’s because the Five Senses Sharing soul crystal can only be used when the other party is conscious. An unconscious person has no five senses, so naturally, it cannot function. Try this.”

Fu Yao tossed over another soul crystal. Ying Feng caught it, activated it, and a white light emanated from the palm of his hand.

Fu Yao pointed at the radar, signaling him to press his palm onto it. After doing so, a continuously fluctuating light ring appeared on the radar.

“Aim in this direction and move forward. Notify the other fleets to search the vicinity as well. Seal off this area. Don’t let any ship leave.”

Several subordinates responded in unison, “Yes, Commander!”

Once everyone was in position, Fu Yao looked at Ying Feng with concern. He knew of Ying Feng’s powerful mental strength, but this kind of tracking soul crystal consumed a lot of power. If they couldn’t find the person before the mental power was exhausted, and if the target had fled to outer space, the search would become much more complicated.

Turning his gaze forward, Fu Yao frowned deeply. Why did these things always happen to Ling Xiao? Who had he offended?

……

The researchers at the Tianxiu Gene Research Center were also experiencing a tense and crucial moment. After a year-long experiment, the moment to unveil the results finally arrived. When the last drop of blood was transfused into Yue Ying, his pulse, blood pressure, and breathing rate all reached standard values. According to the research report, this was the moment of his awakening.

Heng He held his breath, staring intently at the man on the bed. If glares could be tangible, Yue Ying’s face would have been pierced by his gaze. Under such unwavering scrutiny, the eyelashes of the man, who had been in a deep slumber for a thousand years, fluttered and he slowly opened his eyes.

“He’s awake! He’s really awake!” Heng He was overjoyed. The other researchers were also astounded. For the scientists, the purpose of the experiment wasn’t as important as the monumental achievement of reviving an ancient Tianxiu being who had been frozen for over four thousand years.

While those standing expressed their joy, the man lying down contrasted sharply with them, showing no emotion regardless of what was happening around him.

Heng He soon realized something was amiss. He checked Yue Ying’s pupils and retested his brainwaves.

“Why… Why is it like this?”

Everyone stopped and waited for him to explain.

“He’s awake, but that’s all. His brain waves show no reflexes; he can’t perceive any external stimuli. Described in the terms of other races, he’s like a human without consciousness, commonly referred to as a ‘vegetative state’.”

The scientists exchanged worried glances. They had considered the possibility of experiment failure, but they had never considered this outcome.

Long Yin, hearing the news, rushed over and was furious upon seeing the situation. “So much time, manpower, and funds were invested, and you present me with a vegetative state? What can a ‘vegetative person’ do? Can they grant access to the central system’s modification rights?”

“I didn’t expect this,” Heng He quickly replied. “Give me some time. I will figure out a solution.”

Long Yin stormed out. The scientists, who had worked tirelessly on this experiment, were devastated and demoralized. Without a solution in sight, keeping them at the base seemed pointless, so Heng He took the initiative and sent them to rest.

Only Heng He and Yue Ying remained in the laboratory. He racked his brain—the man had awakened, but without consciousness. How could he restore his awareness?

He adjusted the bed slightly, and the man on it remained calm and passive. If it weren’t for the occasional blink, he would seem almost identical to his deep-sleeping state.

Heng He gazed into his deep blue eyes, a refreshing sight amidst the usual black hues of the Tianxiu people.

“Yue Ying, Yue Ying, how can I truly awaken you?”

The computer screen nearby suddenly flickered a few times. The change in lighting caught Heng He’s attention, and he quickly turned his head. To his astonishment, he found that all the data on the electronic instruments began to fluctuate wildly, as if out of control or perhaps infected by some sort of computer virus. The flickering rate of the screens increased rapidly until they were eventually engulfed in a blinding white light.

“What’s happening?”

Electricity zapped along the wires, moving from the computer to the bed. Blue electric sparks began to surround Yue Ying’s body.

“This is bad!”

Heng He hastily lunged forward, trying to disconnect the power. However, the moment he touched the wires, a massive force repelled him, sending him flying across the room.

“Yue Ying!” He called out while scrambling back on his feet. He touched the wires once more, but this time there was no reaction. The electricity had vanished.

Staring blankly, he lifted his head and found that the man on the bed had changed positions. Those deep blue eyes were intently fixed on him.

“Was it you calling me?” Yue Ying’s voice was as melodious as a clear stream in winter.

“You’re awake?” Heng He gazed up at him, almost in a daze, forgetting even to stand up.

Yue Ying looked around.

“I don’t like it here,” he continued, locking eyes with Heng He. “Take me out.”

Heng He’s eyes grew more vacant, and finally, he obediently lowered his head, responding, “Yes.”

---

<<< || Table of Contents || >>>

Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

---

Chapter 100

Ling Xiao rubbed his eyes vigorously, only to confirm that the person in front of him wasn’t a figment of his imagination.

“Lan Sheng? Is it really you? How did you…?”

“Surprised to see me?” Lan Sheng asked.

Indeed, because the principal had spent a full six years at the Disease Control Center, he was already hailed as a miracle by the dean. So, wasn’t Lan Sheng, who had only spent a year there, an even greater marvel?

Nevertheless, the thrill of seeing someone he had just missed moments ago always outweighed the shock.

Watching Ling Xiao’s ever-changing expression, Lan Sheng smiled again and took the initiative to step forward, giving Ling Xiao a hug.

“I’ve missed you.”

Ling Xiao hugged back tightly. “Me too.”

All the words that had built up during their separation condensed into this one intimate embrace. After a considerable amount of time, they reluctantly let go of each other.

“You’ve grown so tall.” Lan Sheng looked up at him, his eyes filled with a mix of emotions.

It was then that Ling Xiao remembered that he now had eyes identical in color to Lan Sheng. He no longer hid the fact that he was a Qizi and would proudly introduce his Qizhu to new friends. But Lan Sheng was different; he was an old friend from the primary academy. Because of Lan Sheng’s misfortune, Ling Xiao once vowed never to become a Qizi. Yet, today, as they reunited, both, who didn’t wish to become Qizis, had become someone else’s Qizi.

But Lan Sheng didn’t ask any awkward questions. Facing Ling Xiao’s gray eyes, he seemed quite at ease.

“Aren’t you going to invite me in?” he asked.

“Oh.” Ling Xiao suddenly realized they were still standing outside and quickly stepped aside to let Lan Sheng in.

As soon as Lan Sheng entered, he looked around with interest. Ling Xiao, having so many questions bottled up, wished he could pour them all out at once.

“When did you get out of the Disease Control Center? Why didn’t you tell me to pick you up? How did you get into the Royal Sky Academy? Didn’t the guards stop you?”

Ignoring all his questions, Lan Sheng instead remarked, “So this is what the dorms at Royal Sky look like. I once dreamt of studying here, but I guess I won’t have that chance anymore.”

Hearing this, Ling Xiao felt a pang of sadness and didn’t know what to say.

However, seeing his reaction, Lan Sheng consoled him, “But knowing that you got into Royal Sky makes me as happy as if I were studying here myself. You don’t have to feel sad for me.”

Surprisingly, Lan Sheng seemed to be more open-minded than Ling Xiao himself, which provided a subtle comfort.

Just then, a shadow darted out from the bedroom, targeting the newcomer. Ling Xiao, quick as lightning, stepped forward to block its path.

“Xiao Hui!”

Xiao Hui, seeing Ling Xiao in the way, retracted its claws immediately. However, it lost its balance and rolled onto the floor. After a couple of tumbles, it stood up and growled warningly from deep within its throat at Lan Sheng behind Ling Xiao.

“Xiao Hui! He’s my friend! Be polite!” Ling Xiao scolded.

Though reluctant, upon hearing Ling Xiao’s words, Xiao Hui slowly backed off, its eyes filled with hostility locked onto Lan Sheng.

“Is this a dog you’ve adopted?” Lan Sheng asked curiously from behind him.

“Xiao Hui isn’t a dog, it’s a wolf. I’m sorry, it’s usually not like this.”

Even with those it didn’t like, it would just show its indifference by turning its back on them. This aggressive behavior was a first.

Lan Sheng shook his head, indicating it was okay, and continued to explore Ling Xiao’s dorm. When he arrived at the bedroom, the most prominent feature was a picture of Ling Xiao and Ying Feng on the wall, which naturally caught Lan Sheng’s attention.

“Uh…” Seeing Lan Sheng closely examine the photo on the wall, Ling Xiao felt a bit embarrassed. Lan Sheng knew Ying Feng and had heard the bold claims he made in his youth. Now everything had turned around; it was like a mirror image of Lan Sheng and Ping Zong.

After a while, Lan Sheng said, “So, you finally ended up with Ying Feng. Back then, I always felt that the way you treated him was different from others. You constantly mentioned his name, claiming he was your competitor. But I think you always harbored different feelings for him.”

Ling Xiao couldn’t argue. When he was young and ignorant, he couldn’t recognize his own feelings and needed an instrument to tell him the truth.

“How is your relationship now?”

“Uh… Well,” Ling Xiao replied awkwardly.

Lan Sheng saw his nervousness and chuckled. “I have no opinion about Ying Feng. I just remember him being very strong and cold. It must be hard for you to get along with him.”

“Not really,” Ling Xiao hurriedly denied. “He’s actually… quite easy to get along with.”

Ling Xiao said this without much confidence. To those unfamiliar, Ying Feng was indeed a difficult person to get along with. But precisely because of this, being treated differently by Ying Feng made Ling Xiao feel special every day, like he was the only one in Ying Feng’s eyes. Unfortunately, outsiders couldn’t understand this.

“Really?” Lan Sheng accepted it naturally. “Seeing you like this now, studying at a prestigious school, being with the person you like, I’m genuinely happy for you.”

Before Ling Xiao could respond, Lan Sheng’s tone seemed to drop a few degrees. “All of this would have been perfect if you were the Qizhu.”

Ling Xiao was surprised, not understanding why Lan Sheng said this or his intentions.

“Why are you looking at me so surprised?” Lan Sheng turned his head. “Don’t you think the same?”

Ling Xiao stammered. “Well… I guess…”

“You used to be determined to become Ying Feng’s Qizhu, but now you’ve become his Qizi. The target remains the same, but the roles are drastically different. Can you accept that?”

Ling Xiao turned serious. “I don’t know why you’re asking this. Even though Ying Feng is now my Qizhu, ever since we accepted each other, he hasn’t mistreated me as a Qizhu.”

“But he did before that, right?”

“Yes, he did, but…”

“So, have you willingly accepted your status as a Qizi? Or have you had no power, constantly being suppressed, forced to face reality, and hypnotized yourself into thinking that’s okay?”

Ling Xiao was rendered speechless.

Lan Sheng shook his head in disappointment. “Ling Xiao, you’ve really changed a lot.”

Ling Xiao wanted to argue that it shouldn’t be this way. Lan Sheng was clearly someone who understood the roles of master and subject most deeply. It was due to his stubbornness that Ping Zong reincarnated. Lan Sheng should have had a realization regarding this issue long ago.

However, facing this version of Lan Sheng, Ling Xiao found himself unable to utter a word. The Lan Sheng he knew now seemed so unfamiliar. A year at the Disease Control Center had transformed him completely. Although he often smiled, the warmth of his smile never reached his eyes. The coldness he emitted was even more intense than that of Ying Feng.

No, Ying Feng’s coldness was natural, stemming from his character—a kind of pure indifference without malice towards others. In contrast, the aura around Lan Sheng was like a chilling mist with black smoke. While Ying Feng might deter people from approaching, Lan Sheng’s presence made them want to flee.

Having just spoken harshly to Ling Xiao, Lan Sheng’s demeanor softened. “But who am I to judge? So much time has passed, everything has changed, even myself.”

Ling Xiao recalled what he saw and heard during Lan Sheng’s time at the Disease Control Center. A year in such a place would undoubtedly change a person. Hoping to shift the conversation, Ling Xiao asked, “Have you completely left the Disease Control Center? Where are you planning to go next?”

Lan Sheng went along with the topic switch. “I haven’t decided yet. I don’t plan on continuing my studies. Someone offered me a job, and I’m considering it.”

“A job?” Ling Xiao was slightly disappointed to hear Lan Sheng wouldn’t pursue further studies but felt relieved he’d be working. “Where is it? Even if it’s far, leave me the address, and I’ll visit you regularly.”

Then a thought struck him. “It’s a job on Tianxiu, right? I met someone before, um…” Ling Xiao chose his words carefully. “His situation is similar to yours. He said that with his constitution, living outside Tianxiu is very challenging.”

“I understand, it’s the soul traction,” Lan Sheng openly said. “The less developed a person is, the more severe the effect. For someone like me, who’s entirely undeveloped, even going to Wolf Star wouldn’t help.”

“You don’t need to worry about me. I’m not as fragile as you imagine. Instead, it’s you.” Lan Sheng lifted his hand, touching Ling Xiao’s cheek. “Since a long time ago, you’ve been my concern, and it’s still the same now.”

His words instantly took Ling Xiao back to that night when Lan Sheng came to bid him farewell. Every word he had spoken then was deeply imprinted in his heart.

They had promised to meet again. That wish had now been fulfilled, but who could have imagined then that when they met again, things and people would have changed so much.

“Alright.” Lan Sheng lowered his hand. “I need to leave. But before I go, I want to ask for the thing I entrusted to you for safekeeping.”

“Ah.” Ling Xiao suddenly remembered. “Wait a moment.”

He took out a box from a hidden spot under the bed, hesitating. “Do you still need this box?”

Lan Sheng guessed that the box probably contained more than just what he had left for him. “No, just give me the dagger. You can keep the box.”

Ling Xiao sighed in relief, quickly opened the box, and carefully took out Ping Zong’s dagger.

“Here you go.”

Lan Sheng took it, lost in memories for a while after seeing it.

Ling Xiao didn’t disturb him, waiting until Lan Sheng came back to himself and inadvertently caught a glimpse of the items in the box.

“Why are you collecting all these trinkets?”

“It’s nothing.” Ling Xiao quickly closed the box lid. “Just for fun.”

Lan Sheng didn’t comment further, and Ling Xiao put the box back in its place.

“Thank you for keeping it safe.” Lan Sheng gestured with the dagger in hand.

“It’s nothing.” Ling Xiao was a bit unused to his politeness. “Ying Feng will be back soon. Don’t you want to see him?”

Lan Sheng gave that familiar smile. “No need. We were never close.”

“Alright then,” Ling Xiao resigned. “Let me see you off…”

Before he could finish, Xiao Hui, who had been on high alert, barked loudly at him. Ling Xiao had never seen Xiao Hui so agitated before.

“Xiao Hui, calm down. I’ll be right back.”

Seeing that he couldn’t stop him, Xiao Hui, without hesitation, jumped at Lan Sheng. Even Ling Xiao couldn’t hold him back. Xiao Hui’s sharp teeth bit hard into Lan Sheng’s arm.

“Xiao Hui!” Ling Xiao exclaimed in panic.

With a frown, Lan Sheng tried to shake him off but failed. He swiftly rotated the dagger in his hand. Accompanied by a painful yelp, Xiao Hui, hurt, let go, and fell to the ground, whimpering pitifully.

“Xiao Hui!” Ling Xiao called out its name again, this time filled with worry.

He quickly crouched down to check on Xiao Hui’s injuries. Fortunately, Lan Sheng had been gentle; he’d only cut its front paw’s skin, more of a warning than anything else.

“I’m sorry. It bit me, and I just reflexively…”

Ling Xiao felt choked up. Though Xiao Hui was the first to misbehave, after all, it was just an innocent animal. But when he looked up and saw the deep bite marks on Lan Sheng’s arm, the words he was about to say got stuck in his throat.

Frustrated, he rubbed Xiao Hui’s belly. “Xiao Hui, why did you do that today? Wait, let me get a bandage for you.”

Xiao Hui, not being a Tianxiu, couldn’t be healed with soul crystals. When injured, it could only wait to recover slowly after the wound was treated, which was quite troublesome.

“I’m leaving now. Won’t you see me off for a bit?” Just as he got up to get the medical kit, Lan Sheng stopped him.

Ling Xiao looked worriedly at the injured Xiao Hui on the ground, its whimpers sounding pitiful. “Let me quickly treat it. It will be very fast.”

Lan Sheng glanced at the time. “I don’t have much time left. Once I leave this time, it will be a long time before we can see each other again.”

After all, Lan Sheng was once his best friend. It would be inappropriate not to see him off. The injury on Xiao Hui seemed not too serious, but its howls were exaggerated, as if someone had chopped off its paw.

Ling Xiao picked up Xiao Hui and put it on the bed, reassuring, “I’ll be back soon. Please bear with it for a little while.”

No matter how much Xiao Hui cried, it couldn’t retain Ling Xiao. Watching his departing figure, Xiao Hui swiftly rolled and jumped off the bed, chasing after him. Its agile actions showed no hint of injury.

However, the door was completely closed in front of it. Desperately scratching at the door, it let out anxious howls, hoping Ling Xiao would turn back.

“It’s usually not like this. I don’t know what got into it today.” Ling Xiao, noticing the bite mark on Lan Sheng’s wrist, said with some guilt, “Let me treat it for you.”

“No need,” Lan Sheng declined. “I know you’re pressed for time. My vehicle is at the landing pad; the round trip won’t take long.”

They quickly reached the landing pad. Surprisingly, Lan Sheng had a vehicle, a relatively new aircraft.

“Where did this come from?” Ling Xiao asked.

“It’s lent to me by my workplace,” Lan Sheng casually replied.

“Oh,” Ling Xiao said, accepting the explanation without suspicion.

Standing by the hatch, Lan Sheng said, “Thank you for seeing me off.”

Ling Xiao wished to have a proper farewell, but he was still concerned about Xiao Hui in the dormitory.

“Stay in touch.”

“Certainly.”

As Lan Sheng embraced him again, Ling Xiao didn’t overthink and hugged him back. But then he heard a soft whisper from Lan Sheng. “But what if I can’t bear to leave you?”

“What?” Ling Xiao didn’t catch that.

“Then come with me.”

Ling Xiao felt a prick on his back, and a cold liquid was injected into him. His vision blurred as his strength drained away.

Until he blacked out, he couldn’t believe that Lan Sheng, his best friend, would do such a thing. He had never doubted him.

“Why…” He managed to utter.

“Because I can’t bear to see you like this.” Lan Sheng softly cradled him. “I will help you end this pain.”

But I don’t feel any pain at all. Why don’t you understand?

Closing his eyes, Ling Xiao thought of the injured Xiao Hui left alone at home. No wonder it reacted so violently. The instincts of beasts were eerily accurate. Why didn’t he pick up on its warning of danger?

Just as he fell, he seemed to see the figure of Ying Feng hurriedly returning. It’s already dark. Where did you go?

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Author: 易修罗 / Yi Xiu Luo

Translator: Kinky || https://kinkytranslations.com/

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Chapter 99

Half a year later.

The Huoxiu Independent Army was forcefully suppressed, and other opportunistic reactionary forces also ceased their actions upon seeing this, allowing Tianxiu to enjoy a period of peace and tranquility.

If there was any groundbreaking news during this time, it was that the Tree of Souls, which hadn’t borne a new soul for nearly a century, was about to mature. To put it in terms of another species, it took all the people of the Tianxiu planet a hundred years to produce just one child, highlighting the attention and significance it received. Every day, the news media reported on its latest developments, almost wishing they could pick it now and nurture it in an energy chamber.

Slightly less shocking news was that the National History Museum experienced its first theft in its centuries-long history. Someone sneaked into the museum late at night, effortlessly bypassing all surveillance and security systems, and, using incomprehensible methods, stole an ancient imperial badge.

This incident also attracted widespread attention. After repeated investigations, the military only concluded that the thief had an extremely high computer skill level, capable of easily hacking and manipulating computer data. What attracted more attention was the message button the thief left in place of the badge. Upon pressing, a message would appear:

I will steal your souls.

This message ignited intense discussions. The overwhelming conclusion was that the soul the thief referred to was very likely the newborn soul on the Tree of Souls. With this conclusion, the military stationed heavy troops to guard the Tree of Souls 24/7, ensuring the soul’s safe arrival.

In the core building of the Tianyuan network, a fledgling was playing with an ancient hexagram-shaped badge. Due to its age, its surface was worn, and the designs and inscriptions were blurred. However, this didn’t hinder Xing Lou’s recognition. Over the years, as soon as he closed his eyes, he could vividly recall its appearance, every detail as fresh as the day it was given to him.

“You aren’t afraid of damaging this 4,000-year-old relic.”

As Yue Ying spoke, familiar tentacles emerged from the wall, curling around Xing Lou’s pinkie.

“This is just a virtual representation on the network,” Xing Lou replied nonchalantly. “The real one has been safely placed in an absolutely secure location that the military could never find.”

Yue Ying’s fibers continued to spread, gently touching the surface of the badge as if feeling it with fingers.

“Why did you risk stealing it?”

“It was mine to begin with. I merely took back what belonged to me,” Xing Lou said, looking tenderly at the badge in his palm and, perhaps, at the tentacles wrapped around it. “This is also a carefully prepared gift for your imminent awakening.”

With that, he brought the badge to his lips, planting a soft kiss upon it.

“Indeed.” Yue Ying chuckled softly. “I’m also getting a bit impatient.”

……

Ling Xiao and Ying Feng went from the base down to the Genetic Center. Originally, Ling Xiao planned to visit the Tree of Souls to observe the growth of the new souls. However, the place was under martial law, prohibiting anyone from approaching, so he had to give up the idea.

Riding the elevator down, Ling Xiao expressed his disappointment.

“Why can’t I even take a look? I just want to see what the new soul looks like.”

“Due to the previous museum theft incident, the culprit has not been caught. The military is probably very nervous,” Ying Feng said. “Losing a soul is much more serious than losing an ancient artifact.”

“Okay.” Ling Xiao had to accept. “I don’t know why that person sneaked into the museum just to steal a badge. It’s not even the most valuable thing in the museum.”

Security doors opened one by one in front of them, revealing familiar figures. The experiment had reached its critical final stages. The research team, led by Heng He, was working around the clock, fearing any small mishaps.

“You’re here,” Heng He greeted them happily when he saw them. “Come and see our latest progress.”

The two approached and saw Yue Ying still lying motionless on the bed. His originally pale face now had a faint hint of color.

The protective shield around him had been removed, and a thin tube connected to the back of his hand was transporting Ling Xiao’s blood. This blood had been carefully filtered multiple times to ensure its purity. Beside him, complex data on a machine changed constantly. The only thing they could understand was a straight line pulsing at regular intervals.

“Does he have a heartbeat now?” Ling Xiao asked in surprise.

“Yes!” Heng He excitedly confirmed. Although the heartbeat was slow and faint, it was a sign of revival.

Ling Xiao touched his own chest, feeling as if he could sense the same heartbeat.

“As planned, today is the last blood extraction. After today, we’ll have enough blood to potentially wake up the test subject,” Heng He explained.

“That’s great,” Ling Xiao sighed in relief. After a long year of blood donations, he could finally be free.

“Do we have any more involvement after this?” Ying Feng asked.

“As of now, no. Thank you for your help over the past year, especially you, Ling Xiao. It’s been tough,” Heng He said with genuine gratitude.

Ying Feng didn’t really appreciate his thanks. From the beginning, they were coerced into this. He imagined that once this experiment succeeded, the military would significantly expand the battlefield in a short time.

Ling Xiao’s thoughts were elsewhere. Who is Yue Ying? What’s their relationship? Only Yue Ying’s awakening could answer these questions.

“Let’s start,” Ling Xiao said, lying down on the bed, hoping for Yue Ying’s quick recovery.

Perhaps because it was the last time, more blood was drawn than usual, causing Ling Xiao to faint. Knowing that he wouldn’t have to endure this process again, Ying Feng remained calm.

When Ling Xiao woke up, he was back in their dormitory. Ying Feng was by the window, talking to someone.

“How do you feel?” Ying Feng asked after ending the call.

“Who were you talking to?” Ling Xiao was more curious about that conversation.

“It’s about some issues with the tribe on Wolf Star. They couldn’t solve it and wanted me to handle it,” Ying Feng replied.

Ling Xiao knew of the capabilities of the Black Wolf and the others. If they couldn’t handle it, it must be a significant issue. He also missed the tribe.

“I want to go too,” Ling Xiao mumbled.

Ying Feng brushed his hair. “You’re not in a state to travel now. I’ll be back by tomorrow at the latest. Rest.”

Now, in his weakened state, Ling Xiao’s skill at acting petulant and spoiled was at its peak. Things he would usually find embarrassing to say, he could now utter easily while appearing delicate and vulnerable.

“You actually left your Qizi, who’s mentally injured, alone at home.” Ling Xiao dramatically closed his eyes. “Ah, I feel so unwell, I think I’m going to faint.”

Ying Feng playfully flicked his forehead. “Stop putting on an act. From now on, you won’t need to give blood. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want.”

Trying one last time, Ling Xiao began, “I…”

“Behave,” Ying Feng interrupted, sealing his lips with a kiss, which made Ling Xiao drowsy.

“Using that trick again…” Ling Xiao murmured, soon drifting into sleep.

After ensuring Ling Xiao was settled, Ying Feng almost stepped on Xiao Hui.

In half a year, Xiao Hui had grown from the size of a palm to the length of a forearm. It couldn’t transform into human form, leading Ling Xiao to suspect it might be an ordinary wolf. He had previously considered doing a DNA test on it, but later decided to let nature take its course and let it develop, whether it was a human or wolf.

After Xiao Hui’s gray eyes met Ying Feng’s black ones, it retreated two steps out of fear. Ying Feng knew that in this household, Xiao Hui, with its clear sense of hierarchy, naturally saw the strict Ying Feng as the alpha wolf. The way it looked at him always carried a hint of reverence, even though it enjoyed playing with Ling Xiao.

But even if it was a wolf, Xiao Hui was a very smart one, able to understand some simple commands.

“Watch the house,” Ying Feng ordered.

Xiao Hui let out two howls as a response.

Ying Feng noticed that it was getting late. He needed to leave early to address the issue and make sure he could return by tomorrow night.

Before leaving, his gaze swept over a large photo on the wall. There was the wedding photo, and the honeymoon had passed, but it seemed something was still missing for the marriage to feel complete.

……

Ying Feng’s tribe had friction with several nearby tribes, which was serious enough that it seemed like it could only be resolved with force. However, when the legendary Wolf King from Tianxiu appeared at the negotiation table, no one dared to threaten with force recklessly.

With this conflict resolved, a small tribe from the west that had not been recognized by the federation merged in, doubling their territory and increasing their population by several hundred.

Although they wanted Ying Feng to stay and celebrate, he declined briefly. Without lingering a moment longer, he hurriedly boarded the spaceship heading back to Tianxiu.

However, upon rushing back to Tianxiu and disembarking from the ship, Ying Feng didn’t immediately return to Royal Sky. Instead, he went to a jewelry store near the Spousal Registration Office, where the sales staff warmly greeted him.

“Mr. Ying Feng? We received the order you placed yesterday. We expedited the laser engraving today. Please check if it meets your expectations.”

Ying Feng took the box handed to him, traced his finger along its metallic edge, and the lid slowly opened, revealing a pair of rings inside. He picked one up, closely examining the inner band, where the names of himself and Ling Xiao were engraved, along with the date of their bond.

“Is it to your satisfaction?” the salesperson asked.

Ying Feng nodded and placed the ring back inside the box.

After making the payment, as the salesperson packaged the rings, she casually mentioned, “Today is the anniversary of your bonding.”

“Yes,” Ying Feng replied.

“Congratulations! It’s surprising, though. Many people buy wedding rings right after bonding. Why did you think of buying rings a year later?”

Ying Feng remembered that a year ago, he and Ling Xiao were trapped in a dark mine, facing the threat of a Kui and almost losing their lives. Who would have thought that a year later, he’d be in a bright jewelry store, picking out rings for them?

Seeing Ying Feng lost in thought, the salesperson didn’t press further and handed him the packaged rings with a smile. “I believe your Qizi will be delighted with this gift. I wish you both happiness.”

Ying Feng took the bag. “Thank you.”

He glanced at the terminal’s time display; he had been away for a whole day. Now he had to hurry back and put the ring on Ling Xiao’s finger before their anniversary ended. He could already imagine Ling Xiao’s surprised face, followed by his silly grin.

Leaving the jewelry store, Ying Feng quickly returned to the Flying Shark. Evening had passed, the sunset faded, and night was approaching. His heart was eager to return home.

At home, Ling Xiao played with Xiao Hui, occasionally glancing at the clock. He remembered receiving Ying Feng’s boarding message an hour and a half ago. Why hadn’t he returned?

“Xiao Hui, do you want to visit your homeland?” Ling Xiao playfully ruffled its fluffy head. “Once I no longer need to draw blood, I’ll take you back to Wolf Star for a visit. I miss the Black Wolf, White Wolf, and even Luoluo.”

Xiao Hui responded with a series of howls, the two of them communicating seamlessly.

“How come Ying Feng hasn’t returned? Could he have encountered a nebula vortex?” Ling Xiao mused aloud. Almost instantly, he spat out, cursing his own words, “Jinxing it!”

He hugged Xiao Hui. “You know, I had a friend who was famously unlucky. Every bad thing he mentioned would come true. Fascinating, right?”

A distant memory of someone surfaced in his mind, and he wondered how that person was faring now.

When Ling Xiao snapped back to reality, he found himself instinctively at the window, with Xiao Hui beside him, both eagerly peeking out. “If Ying Feng sees us like this, he’ll surely tease us for being impatient.”

Ling Xiao wanted to move away but found his feet glued to the spot. He yearned to see Ying Feng, even if it was just a distant silhouette.

“Alright, let’s just wait a bit more. We just need to be careful not to get caught.”

One person and one wolf peeked out from the windowsill. Time was slowly ticking by. The sun had set, but Ying Feng was still nowhere to be seen.

“It’s strange.” Ling Xiao grew restless. “Let’s give him a call…”

As he reached for his terminal, the doorbell rang.

“He’s back!”

Ling Xiao excitedly rushed to the door. From which direction had Ying Feng returned? He hadn’t seen him approaching.

“You’re back—” He started, pulling open the door, but the greeting died halfway. Instead of the tall figure he expected, a shorter person stood there, head lowered.

“You…?” He hesitated.

The person finally looked up, revealing a familiar face.

“Hi.” With a youthful appearance, Lan Sheng gave Ling Xiao a slight smile. “Long time no see.”

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