Chapter 359 Banquet (Five in One)

Su Ze then led Su Ming and the other two towards the right area, saying with a smile,

“I have a few friends who are really great people. I’m sure you’ll hit it off with them.”

“Cousin’s friends must all be outstanding.”

Su Ming flattered him politely.

“Exactly!”

Major Su Rui also agreed.

“They’re just up ahead. I’ll introduce you.”

Su Ze’s smile deepened after hearing their words.

Su Ming followed Su Ze’s gaze and looked forward.

Ahead, on the hillside, a protruding viewing platform was set up.

This viewing platform had drapes for shade, and it was furnished with leisure tables and chairs, with exquisite pastries and tea placed on the tables.

In front of the viewing platform was an endless lawn with beautiful scenery, and a retro martial arts training ground was also set up in the central area.

At the same time, this viewing platform was clearly divided into two parts: the left side was for the daughters of various prominent families and corporations, while the right side was for gentlemen dressed in military uniforms and luxurious formal wear.

At this moment, the men were chatting while looking at the martial arts training ground.

On the stage, two burly men were sparring in combat, and their back-and-forth fight was quite exciting.

“Good!”

The watching men praised them from time to time.

As for the young ladies from the various prominent families, they whispered among themselves.

“So boring. These guys either watch fights or talk about Mecha.”

“It’s really uninteresting.”

Just then, Su Ze led Su Ming and the other two towards a leisure table at the edge of the viewing platform.

Two men were seated at that leisure table. The man on the left stood tall and straight like a pine, with a resolute face and neat, short hair. He wore a lieutenant colonel’s military uniform, with two red stars and one black star badge pinned to his chest. The man on the right wore a major’s military uniform, with a handsome face and confident eyes, and a black star badge pinned to his chest.

“Sta, Jian Ang!”

Su Ze greeted the two with a smile.

“Su Ze, where did you run off to? We’ve been sitting here for half a day.”

Lieutenant Colonel Sta said with a chuckle.

“I went to meet a few brothers and friends. Come, let me introduce you. This is Colonel Goodman, from the First Legion!”

Su Ze then introduced him.

“Hello!”

Sta and Jian Ang immediately stood up and greeted him simultaneously.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all.”

Goodman replied politely.

Then Su Ze continued to introduce Lieutenant Colonel Sta.

“These two are my cousins, Major Su Rui and Su Ming.”

“Hello, everyone!”

Lieutenant Colonel Sta greeted Su Ming and the others politely.

“Hello.”

Su Ming and Major Su Rui also replied very politely.

“Brother Sta, let me tell you, my cousin Su Ming is also from Xiguang Laboratory. If you get a chance to meet him in the future, please take good care of him.”

Su Ze immediately added.

Su Ming’s nerves twitched when he heard Su Ze’s words, and he was speechless. Is that even possible?

“You’re also from Xiguang Laboratory? I haven’t seen you before. Which senior are you following?”

Lieutenant Colonel Sta immediately became interested and asked.

Su Ming took a deep breath and blurted out,

“I’m following Dr. Blackes.”

Upon hearing this, Lieutenant Colonel Sta’s eyes widened in astonishment, and he said in disbelief,

“You, you’re actually working under Dr. Blackes? That’s truly amazing!”

In Lieutenant Colonel Sta’s eyes, anyone who could work under Dr. Blackes and not get fired was an impressive individual.

“Uh, it’s alright.”

Su Ming forced a very awkward smile. He felt that the more he spoke, the more outlandish it became, and things were developing in an uncontrollable direction.

Goodman and the others were also startled. Who doesn’t know Dr. Blackes when Xiguang Laboratory is mentioned?

“Brother, come sit down!”

Lieutenant Colonel Sta immediately said to Su Ming with great enthusiasm.

“Okay.”

Su Ming sat down awkwardly.

Su Ze watched this scene, even more surprised. He was very familiar with Sta and understood his temperament; it was rare to see him so enthusiastic towards others.

His cousin truly kept a low profile!

So Su Ze also smiled and picked up a pastry from a nearby table, handing it to Su Ming.

“Cousin Su Ming, try the osmanthus pastry. That top layer is real osmanthus.”

“Thank you!”

Su Ming accepted it gracefully.

Just then, a round of applause suddenly erupted from around them. Su Ming and the others turned their heads to look.

On the martial arts training ground, the two sparring individuals had determined a winner: a bald, burly man in a major’s military uniform had won.

At this moment, another strong captain climbed onto the stage.

The two exchanged a few pleasantries before beginning to spar.

“The two on stage have good combat skills, especially that bald major.”

Su Ming very naturally steered the conversation towards the martial arts training ground, to avoid them talking about Xiguang Laboratory again later.

“You mean Su Wu? His ancient martial arts are indeed good, but he’s still a bit short compared to me.”

Su Ze said to Su Ming with a smile.

Su Ming asked with a slight surprise,

“Ancient martial arts?”

“That’s right, haven’t you learned it? The entire family starts learning from a young age, because Fourth Generation Mecha and above require the support of ancient martial arts to unleash their maximum combat power!”

“Shouldn’t one start by practicing with First Generation Mecha?”

“Oh, you might not know this, but we don’t touch Mecha below the Fourth Generation. Our starting point is the family’s Fourth Generation mass-produced Mecha – Royal Thunder. If you were to make us control Mecha below the Fourth Generation, our skills would probably be worse than a novice.”

Su Ze explained with a smile.

Su Ming and Major Su Rui exchanged glances, both looking at each other, and fell silent.

Just then, a handsome man with a high nose bridge, an arrogant expression, wearing a lieutenant colonel’s military uniform, and adorned with a red star and a black star badge on his chest, walked over, surrounded by three military officers.

At this moment, many military officers on the viewing platform, seeing that man, stepped forward to flatter him.

“Brother Su Yuxuan, long time no see. I didn’t expect you to be promoted to lieutenant colonel. That’s truly impressive.”

“Just so-so!”

Su Yuxuan said with a strong sense of superiority.

“You’re truly modest! I think next time we meet, it might be for your promotion to general.”

“Haha, I’ll do my best!”

Su Ming looked at Su Yuxuan with considerable curiosity.

Just then, Su Ze saw Su Ming’s gaze fall on Su Yuxuan, so he lowered his voice and introduced,

“That’s Su Yuxuan, Vice Patriarch Su Tianhao’s grandson, and also my cousin. But I heard that his family seems to have a bit of a grudge with your grandfather, and their relationship isn’t very good! You understand what I mean, right?”

“Understood.”

Su Ming nodded thoughtfully in response.

Although Su Ze only said there was a bit of a grudge, Su Ming wasn’t a fool. It was clear that this Vice Patriarch Su Tianhao and his grandfather were definitely at loggerheads.

Also, Su Ze didn’t greet Su Yuxuan, but instead revealed information to him, which indirectly indicated that Su Ze and his group also didn’t have a good relationship with Su Yuxuan and his group.

Furthermore, this Su Yuxuan had gathered a large group of people around him; he didn’t seem like a simple character at all.

The internal affairs of this main family don’t seem to be very harmonious.

Just then, two military officers walked over, chatting and laughing.

“Chen Ying, I didn’t expect that after half a year, you’ve been promoted to lieutenant colonel! And you even got a red star badge, that’s truly amazing!”

“It’s alright.”

Su Ming was slightly startled, looked up, and then a surprised expression appeared on his face.

Of the two military officers walking over, one was indeed Deputy Legion Commander Chen Ying from the First Legion. He was wearing a lieutenant colonel’s military uniform, with a red star pinned to his chest, and a prominent horizontal scar on his face.

Just then, Chen Ying also saw Su Ming, and his eyes immediately lit up. He then said to his companion,

“Zhou Zhang, I’m going to say hello to a friend.”

“Who is it? Introduce me, please.”

Zhou Zhang asked with great interest.

“Alright!”

Chen Ying then led Zhou Zhang over.

When Su Ming saw Chen Ying walking towards him, his head immediately swelled.

Soon, Chen Ying brought Zhou Zhang over, exclaiming excitedly,

“Su Ming, I didn’t expect to run into you here!”

“What a coincidence.”

Su Ming replied awkwardly.

Su Ze and the others all looked at Chen Ying, asking with considerable interest,

“Who is this?”

“My name is Chen Ying, and I’m Su Ming’s colleague.”

Chen Ying introduced himself.

“You’re also from Xiguang Laboratory?”

Su Ze and the others immediately became interested when they heard he was Su Ming’s comrade.

After hearing Su Ze’s words, Chen Ying looked at Su Ming, dumbfounded. This was too ridiculous, wasn’t it?

At this moment, Zhou Zhang asked in surprise,

“Chen Ying, aren’t you from the Second Legion? How did you become Xiguang Laboratory?”

“Huh?”

Su Ze and the others were stunned and all looked at Su Ming.

Su Ming, hearing Zhou Zhang’s words, couldn’t help but cough. Truly, it’s not the enemy you fear, but the incompetent teammate. He quickly began to explain,

“It’s like this: we used to be together, but then he was transferred.”

Chen Ying immediately reacted and quickly cooperated.

“Right, we used to be colleagues, then he was transferred!”

“I see. Since he’s Su Ming’s friend, then please sit down together.”

Su Ze greeted them with a smile.

Chen Ying quickly sat down and asked Su Ming very eagerly,

“Su Ming, what have you been busy with lately?”

“Nothing much. I’ve been staying at home lately. I came here today to visit relatives, and I didn’t expect you to be here too.”

Su Ming chatted casually with Chen Ying.

Zhou Zhang, standing nearby, was also bewildered by Chen Ying’s eagerness towards Su Ming.

He remembered Chen Ying as having quite a temper, and for a lieutenant colonel with a badge to be so enthusiastic towards a major with nothing at all seemed incredible no matter how he looked at it.

“I told you you had connections with the Lei Shen Group, but speaking of which, what’s your relationship with the main character of today’s promotion feast?”

Chen Ying asked very curiously.

“Cousins, I guess.”

Su Ming replied with a cough.

“Oh, I see. Then why haven’t I seen him?”

Chen Ying then asked.

Su Ze heard this and said with a smile,

“My eldest cousin hasn’t returned yet; everyone’s waiting for him, but he should be here soon. We’ll be there roughly after we chat for a bit.”

“Oh.”

Su Ming and the others nodded in response.

Just then, Goodman also actively sought a topic.

“By the way, have you heard about the Thirteenth Corps?”

“Of course I’ve heard about it. The Federal Government has been discussing it these past few days, top to bottom.”

Lieutenant Colonel Sta added.

“This Thirteenth Corps is truly amazing. The Dark Star Empire was so powerful, yet they were directly defeated by them head-on, and they even destroyed the Heavenly Base Heart and retreated unscathed.”

Zhou Zhang also echoed,

“I heard that the Thirteenth Corps’ achievements from this expedition have been leaked from the Imperial Army side, and they are incredibly exaggerated.”

Goodman then continued,

“That record is indeed impressive. The Dark Star Empire lost one Royal Order member, had a Deputy Legion Commander captured and then released, and also eliminated five generals and one Pseudo V-generation Mecha. The only pity is that General Korgis, who controlled the Pseudo V-generation Mecha, didn’t die!”

Su Ze said with great regret.

“It’s truly such a pity. If they had killed him, that would have been awesome.”

Goodman and the others expressed great regret.

“Ah? Korgis isn’t dead?”

Su Ming asked in great surprise.

He felt it was too incredible. He clearly sent that guy into the star, and he still didn’t die?

“That’s right, he didn’t die! Don’t you know?”

Goodman asked curiously.

“I don’t know.”

Su Ming shook his head directly in reply.

“Oh dear, your intelligence is too outdated.”

Goodman said to Su Ming.

Su Ming and Chen Ying exchanged glances, both looking exasperated. Their intelligence was outdated?

Clearly, they were the true instigators.

However, Su Ming could only force a smile and say,

“You’re right, it is indeed outdated.”

Just then, a huge roar suddenly came from the sky.

Su Ming and the others all looked up at the sky above them.

At the top of the Dorag Sphere, a wide channel opened up.

At this moment, a forty-meter tall Mecha, entirely composed of black metal, heavily covered with spiked armor externally, its black metal claws grasping two red particle light blades, with a dark red particle beam cannon embedded in its shoulder, and two pairs of black mechanical thruster wings embedded in its back, painted with two red stars and one black star, the Fourth Generation Custom Mecha – Dark Fang, descended rapidly.

Following behind it were four Mecha, thirty-two meters tall, entirely composed of blue metal, with a very cool appearance, invisible particle cannons installed on both arms, two pairs of blue mechanical wings embedded in their backs, and wielding two blue particle light blades, the Fourth Generation Mecha-Thunder Control.

These five Mecha passed through the channel and descended directly towards the lawn below.

At this moment, the wide lawn split open, and a square metal helipad rose up.

The five Mecha landed directly on it.

“He’s here, Young Master Su Yuan is back.”

Seeing this scene, everyone stood up and left the viewing platform, walking down the stairs.

At this moment, the cockpit of the Fourth Generation Custom Mecha – Dark Fang opened, and a handsome man with clear features, sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, and an extraordinary demeanor jumped down.

Immediately after, the cockpits of the other four Royal Thunder Mecha opened, and several field officers jumped down.

Su Yuan led his four subordinates down from the helipad, and immediately the entire metal helipad, carrying the Mecha, automatically sank.

Su Ming watched this scene, secretly marveling.

This is what a true prominent family is like. They have a dedicated underground hangar at home, and all the Mecha parked there are these Fourth Generation Mecha. The depth of their resources is truly unparalleled.

Soon, the people who had gone down welcomed Young Master Su Yuan.

“Congratulations, Young Master Su Yuan, on your promotion to brigadier general.”

“Thank you, everyone!”

Su Yuan replied with a beaming smile.

Su Ze introduced them to Su Ming.

“That’s my eldest cousin, Su Yuan, who just got promoted to brigadier general.”

“Quite impressive.”

Su Ming glanced at him and praised.

“He is quite impressive.”

Su Ze said with some emotion.

Just then, a huge roar came from the sky again. Su Ming and the others were startled and all turned their heads to look.

At this moment, a forty-two-meter tall Mecha, entirely composed of sky-blue metal, with intricate lightning patterns covering its surface, four pairs of mechanical auxiliary Light Wing embedded in its back, two plasma beam cannons embedded in its shoulders, wielding two blue plasma light blades, and with two red moons, seven red stars, and ten black stars painted on its shoulders, the Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Yu Lei Shen, descended at an extremely fast speed.

The lawn split open again, and a gigantic helipad rose up.

Bang!

The Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Yu Lei Shen landed fiercely on it.

At this moment, two massive figures followed closely behind, landing on either side of the Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Yu Lei Shen.

Su Ming looked closely; the colossal figure on the left was a Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Red Lotus’s Fury, standing forty meters tall, glowing red all over, with a plasma beam cannon embedded in its shoulder, four pairs of mechanical auxiliary Light Wings on its back, and a crimson long spear in its hand. Its shoulder was emblazoned with one red moon, four red stars, and two black stars.

The colossal figure on the right was a Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Blaster, standing forty-three meters tall, covered in grey heavy armor, with two heavy particle cannons embedded in its shoulders, four pairs of mechanical auxiliary Light Wings on its back, and two plasma light blades in its hands. Its shoulder was emblazoned with one black moon, five red stars, and six black stars, exuding an overwhelming sense of pressure.

Click!

Just then, the cockpit of the Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Royal Thunder God opened, and a woman wearing blue Fourth Generation colonial armor, with long black hair, fair and delicate skin, crescent-shaped eyebrows that were slender and exquisite, deep eyes, and a cold expression, jumped down.

Immediately after, the cockpit of the Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Red Lotus’s Fury also opened, and a woman wearing red Fourth Generation colonial armor, with an innocent face, bright and lively eyes, a delicate and cute nose, and pink lips, but with a stark contrast in figure—full and firm breasts and a slender waist—followed suit and jumped down.

Finally, the cockpit of the Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Blaster also opened, and a man wearing grey Fourth Generation colonial armor, with a dark face, sharp eyes, and an aura of brave fearlessness, jumped down.

“Pseudo V-generation Mecha! Who are these three people?”

Su Ming asked, very surprised to see this scene.

At this moment, Su Ze stood up and introduced them to Su Ming.

“That Pseudo V-generation Mecha – Royal Thunder God is a mecha developed by our Lei Shen Group in collaboration with Ximake Interstellar Heavy Industry. The one piloting it is my eldest cousin, Su Yao! The woman next to her is Belise from Ximake Interstellar Heavy Industry, and the other is Young Master Gunnite from Fallenka Interstellar Heavy Industry. Like our family, they are both among the seven major weapon suppliers of the Federal Government.”

“I see!”

Su Ming kept looking at the three Pseudo V-generation Mecha, feeling very envious.

He knew better than anyone how big the gap was between a Fourth Generation Mecha and a Pseudo V-generation Mecha.

Although Su Ming had defeated Korgis, who controlled a Pseudo V-generation Mecha, he knew very well that it was merely a trick of skill.

At this moment, Su Yuan, seeing Su Yao return, immediately led people to greet her.

“Sister, you’re back.”

“Yes, the family is holding a promotion banquet for you, so of course I had to come back to congratulate you.”

Su Yao said indifferently.

“Thank you, Sister.”

Su Yuan was very happy to hear Su Yao’s words.

“Let’s go.”

Su Yao said calmly to Su Yuan.

“Okay!”

Su Yuan then followed Su Yao and the others towards the castle.

Everyone followed them like stars revolving around the moon.

At this moment, Goodman and the others could no longer sit still and stood up, saying,

“Su Ze, Su Yuan and Su Yao are all back, shouldn’t we go say hello?”

“Yes, let’s go together.”

Su Ze immediately said.

“Good!”

Major Su Rui nodded in response. He knew very well that although such things were mundane, they were unavoidable.

“You all go, I won’t.”

Su Ming was not very interested in socializing.

“Alright then, you sit here for a while.”

Upon hearing this, Su Ze and the others did not force Su Ming, as everyone’s personality is different.

Chen Ying, seeing that Su Ming was not going, was also a bit reluctant to go, but Zhou Zhang next to him urged him.

“Chen Ying, let’s go together too.”

Chen Ying hesitated for a moment, then said to Su Ming,

“Su Ming, I’ll go over for a bit and come back to find you later.”

“Go ahead.”

Su Ming didn’t really mind.

Chen Ying and Major Su Rui and the others then followed Su Ze towards Su Yao and her group.

Su Ming, on the other hand, sat leisurely in his chair, watching. He noticed that Su Yuxuan had also led people to offer congratulations.

He couldn’t help but shake his head, then turned to look around.

The entire observation deck was almost empty, even the young ladies had stood up and gathered closer.

After sitting for a while, Su Ming stood up and walked towards the castle.

— —

At this moment, behind the castle.

A tranquil lake was nestled there, with the afterglow of the setting sun shining on the water, sparkling brilliantly.

At this moment, a small old man, 1.5 meters tall, with white hair, two long white whiskers, and sharp eyes, sat on a chair, holding a fishing rod, leisurely fishing.

This elder was none other than the old Patriarch of the Su Family, Su Mulong.

Just then, a faint sound of footsteps came, and an old butler, dressed in a black tailcoat, slightly hunched, with a face full of wrinkles and wise eyes, walked over.

“Master, Zhengtian is back.”

“What did you say? Zhengtian is back?”

Upon hearing this, Su Mulong immediately threw his fishing rod aside and stood up, extremely excited.

“Yes.”

Butler Xilun replied respectfully.

At this moment, Su Mulong’s expression suddenly changed again, and he plopped back down, grumbling angrily,

“Damn it, isn’t he very capable? Said he’d never step foot in this house for his whole life? Why is he back now!”

Butler Xilun, hearing Su Mulong’s words, immediately showed a helpless expression and said,

“Master, that’s enough. You know Zhengtian’s temper. If you argue with him again, you might never see him in this life.”

“Can’t see him…”

Su Mulong’s voice became softer and softer as he spoke.

“Master, Zhengtian didn’t come back alone this time; he brought his whole family with him.”

Butler Xilun then added.

“Really?”

Su Mulong asked, very happy to hear this.

“Yes.”

“Let’s go, quickly take me to see him.”

“Master, don’t rush. It won’t take long. I’ve already made arrangements to seat Zhengtian at the main table.”

Butler Xilun said with a smile.

“Alright!”

Su Mulong replied after a moment of contemplation.

On the other side, Su Ming arrived at the castle gate.

He passed through the open gate and came to a spacious courtyard, at the end of which was the main hall door of the castle.

However, the door was currently closed; this door would only open when the banquet began.

Inside the courtyard, long tables were set up, covered with white lace tablecloths, and adorned with exquisite fruit platters, pastries, and drinks.

Many noblewomen attending the banquet were gathered there, chatting and laughing.

At this moment, not far away.

Zhao Ning and a group of noblewomen were gathered together.

Just then, a noblewoman wearing a wine-red, low-cut long dress, revealing her fair collarbone, with black wavy hair falling over her shoulders, and heavy makeup, said to Zhao Ning,

“Zhao Ning, I heard you’re still living in the Thirteenth District.”

“Yes! The Thirteenth District is quite good.”

“Oh, what’s so good about an underground city? You can’t even get real sunlight.”

“You don’t need to worry about that, Eldest Sister-in-law.”

Zhao Ning said somewhat annoyed to Liu Yi.

This Liu Yi was the wife of Zhao Ning’s elder brother, meaning she was from her maiden family, and it was said that she now made all the decisions, big and small, in the Zhao Family.

“Oh, aren’t I just concerned about you? I thought you’d enjoy a good life after marrying into the Su Family, who knew it would turn out like this.”

“I think it’s quite good.”

Zhao Ning took a deep breath, suppressing her anger, and replied.

Just then, a tall, dark-skinned man with acne scars on his face, wearing a major’s military uniform, and of considerable age, walked over and said to Liu Yi,

“Mother.”

“Son, you’re here. This is your aunt, Zhao Ning.”

Liu Yi then said to her son.

“Aunt, hello.”

Zhao Kun greeted Zhao Ning coolly.

“Hello, I can’t believe you’ve grown so big.”

Zhao Ning maintained a smile and said.

“Let me tell you, Zhao Ning! My son is a Major now! Oh, by the way, where’s your son? Didn’t you bring him this time?”

Liu Yi asked triumphantly.

She knew better than anyone that Zhao Ning’s son was a good-for-nothing.

At this moment, the surrounding noblewomen all smiled without speaking, quietly standing and watching the show.

Zhao Ning’s blood pressure immediately soared upon hearing Liu Yi’s sarcastic remarks, and she immediately turned her head, looking around.

She then saw Su Ming not far away.

Her eyes lit up, and she said to Liu Yi,

“You wait, I’ll go call my son!”

Zhao Ning finished speaking and rushed over.

At this moment, Su Ming, who was strolling idly, saw Zhao Ning hurrying towards him and asked in confusion,

“Mother, what’s wrong?”

“Son, come with me!”

Zhao Ning then pulled Su Ming along.

Su Ming was also completely bewildered, not understanding the situation at all.

Soon, Zhao Ning pulled Su Ming in front of Liu Yi and the others, and then solemnly introduced him,

“This is my son, Su Ming. He’s also a Major.”

Liu Yi and the others were stunned, looking at Su Ming in disbelief.

“This is your son?”

“That’s right, Su Ming, say hello to your eldest aunt!”

Zhao Ning said with a smile to Su Ming.

“Hello, eldest aunt.”

Su Ming asked politely, as a formality.

At this moment, the noblewomen nearby discussed in surprise,

“No way, is Zhao Ning’s son that outstanding? A major at such a young age?”

“Zhao Kun seems to be 49 this year.”

Liu Yi’s face immediately became very ugly, as if she had eaten fly excrement.

Zhao Kun, standing nearby, also had a rather displeased expression upon hearing everyone’s discussion.

However, just then, a noblewoman in a black evening gown, wearing pearl earrings, with an outstanding appearance, walked over, pulling a young girl with straight black hair, fair skin, a delicate appearance, clear eyes, and wearing a white dress.

Liu Yi, seeing this noblewoman, immediately pulled her son and eagerly went forward to greet her,

“An Qian, you’re here. This must be your daughter.”

“Yes, this is my daughter, An Ling.”

An Qian replied with a smile.

Zhao Ning’s expression changed slightly. She had clearly arranged with An Qian for Su Ming to meet her daughter.

But Liu Yi had also set her sights on the An Family.

She quickly pulled Su Ming over and greeted her with a smile,

“An Qian, you’re here!”

An Qian smiled and nodded, saying,

“Yes, these two must be your sons.”

“Yes, my son is very outstanding. He has already been promoted to Major and serves as the Deputy City Defense Captain in the Di Yan Star base city.”

Liu Yi praised him with great effort.

“My son is also very capable. He’s also a Major, and he’s studying at the Royal Court Academy.”

Zhao Ning also spared no effort in praising Su Ming.

Su Ming looked at this scene, speechless.

At this moment, An Qian glanced at Su Ming, her eyes immediately lit up, and she then asked,

“How old is your son this year?”

“20 years old!”

“Then he’s about the same age as An Ling. She’s currently studying medicine and nursing at Rainy City·Amonsk Advanced Academy.”

“That’s great, they’re a perfect match.”

Zhao Ning saw that there seemed to be a chance.

Liu Yi, seeing that the situation was not good, immediately said,

“An Qian, what era is this? It mainly depends on the children’s wishes. Why don’t you ask her?”

“That makes sense. An Ling, would you like to chat with someone? These are all relatives, and they’re all very nice people.”

An Qian said to An Ling.

An Ling looked at Su Ming and Zhao Kun, hesitated for a moment, and finally said softly,

“Mr. Su Ming, if you don’t mind, shall we take a walk?”

“Okay!”

Su Ming replied politely.

Liu Yi and Zhao Kun’s faces immediately darkened upon seeing this scene.

The An Family was a relatively large family, mainly engaged in mining, with very strong capital. Moreover, An Ling had a very good reputation, and many people pursued her.

At this moment, Zhao Ning was beaming. She said to An Qian,

“Don’t worry, I told you they were a perfect match.”

“Yes, I didn’t expect your son to be so handsome and so outstanding!”

An Qian was also very satisfied.

To reach this level at such a young age, and to be a top student at the Royal Court Academy, these conditions were excellent even in large families.

At this moment, Su Ming and An Ling walked side by side, strolling.

The two were also silent, not knowing what to talk about.

At this moment, An Ling hesitated for a while, and finally spoke to Su Ming,

“Mr. Su Ming, actually, you’re quite good. But I’m sorry, I have someone I like, it’s just that my mother and the others keep forcing me.”

“Oh, I understand, it’s okay!”

Su Ming’s eyes lit up; this was exactly what he wanted.

“Really?”

“Yes, how about we walk forward a bit and then separate?”

“Okay, thank you.”

An Ling replied gratefully.

“It’s a small matter, no need to thank me.”

Su Ming actually wanted to thank her in return.

Soon, the two walked a long distance, and then separated.

Su Ming then walked alone in the courtyard. At this moment, Little Gray poked its head out and squeaked excitedly when it saw the fruit on the nearby table.

Su Ming chuckled, walked over, picked up crystal grapes from the table one by one, and leisurely fed them to Little Gray.

Little Gray happily held and gnawed on them.

However, at this moment, Su Ming inadvertently saw a corner in the distance.

Su Zhengtian was talking to an old man wearing a luxurious blue robe, with slightly gray hair, a wrinkled forehead, and a serious expression.

This old man was none other than the current Patriarch of the Su Family, Su Feng.

He then picked up Little Gray and walked a little closer.

At this moment, Su Feng also looked full of apologies, saying to Su Zhengtian,

“Zhengtian, I’m truly sorry about what happened back then!”

“Big Brother, you don’t need to apologize, that matter has nothing to do with you! Damn it, he’s the one I beat!”

Su Zhengtian replied with full of anger.

“Oh, why are you still so temperamental?”

“Hmph, in the competition for Deputy Patriarch back then, if I had truly lost, I wouldn’t have said a word! But Su Tianhao actually used underhanded tricks, turned my people against me, and absconded with the Titanium Chromite I was responsible for, causing huge losses to the Lei Shen Group. If I didn’t beat him, who would I beat?!”

“There’s no evidence for this, and the items were lost by you, yet you still beat him up in front of Father.”

“Alright, let’s not talk about the past.”

“Okay, I won’t.”

Su Feng said with a sigh.

Su Ming, hearing this, showed a thoughtful expression.

Just then, sudden bursts of colorful fireworks soared into the sky, exploding into brilliant displays.

Everyone looked at the blooming fireworks and then at the tightly closed doors of the castle hall.

Creak!

At this moment, the doors slowly opened.

Tall women, dressed in red cheongsams, walked out and stood on either side of the doors.

Su Feng, seeing this, said to Su Zhengtian,

“It’s time. The banquet is about to begin. Let’s go in.”

Su Zhengtian also had a stern face as he walked in with Su Feng.

At this moment, many guests also walked towards the open doors.

When they reached the entrance, the women in red cheongsams would step forward to ask for their names, and then individually guide them into the hall.

Su Ming waited a little while, and only when most people had entered did he walk towards the doors.

At this moment, Chen Ying saw Su Ming and ran over happily, calling out,

“Su Ming!”

“Chen Ying, you haven’t gone in yet?”

Su Ming asked with a smile.

“Oh, I was waiting for you. Let’s sit together; I don’t have many good friends here either.”

Chen Ying said with a smile.

“No problem.”

Su Ming readily agreed.

The two then walked forward. At this moment, two women in red cheongsams came to greet them.

“Sir, what are your names?”

“Su Ming!”

“Chen Ying!”

Su Ming and Chen Ying replied simply.

“Your seats are not together, sirs.”

The two ushering women looked at each other after hearing this and said.

“Could you help us arrange it?”

Su Ming asked politely.

“No problem, please follow me then.”

One of the ushering ladies said to the two.

Su Ming and Chen Ying followed her through the main entrance, and their vision suddenly widened.

The entire hall was very spacious. From the towering dome, a miniature Eye of the Sun was suspended, its dazzling light illuminating the entire hall.

The floor of the hall was paved with gilded black-patterned tiles, complex patterns interwoven into elegant designs, and the surrounding walls were carved with lifelike bas-reliefs.

At this time, all the furnishings in the hall had been removed, and round tables were set up. A wide aisle was cleared in the central area, covered with a bright red carpet.

The bright red carpet extended forward, finally reaching a striking bloodwood round table, and in front of the round table, a podium was set up.

Soon, Su Ming and Chen Ying were led to a round table quite close to the front.

Su Yao, Su Ying, Su Yuan, and others were already seated there. They greeted Su Ming when they saw him.

“Su Ming, you’re here. And this is?”

“My friend, Lieutenant Colonel Chen Ying.”

Su Ming introduced with a smile.

“Hello, everyone.”

Chen Ying politely greeted those present.

“Hello, please sit down!”

Su Yao and the others quickly replied.

Su Ming and Chen Ying then sat down next to each other.

At this moment, Zhao Ning, who was sitting next to Su Yuan, originally wanted to ask Su Ming how his conversation with An Ling went, but seeing Su Ming with his friend, she temporarily gave up.

At this moment, Major Su Rui curiously asked Su Yao,

“Father, what about that table in front?”

“That’s the main table. Only the most core personnel of the Lei Shen Group and invited bigwigs can sit at that table. It’s a symbol of power and status!”

Su Yao introduced to Major Su Rui and the others.

“I see!”

Major Su Rui and the others nodded in understanding after hearing this.

At this moment, there was a stir in the venue. Su Ming and the others turned their heads to look.

They saw an old man with silver hair like frost, wearing gold-rimmed glasses, a kind face, and an ancient robe, walking towards the head table with Belise.

Su Yao introduced to everyone,

“That is Lord Berudo of Ximake Interstellar Heavy Industry, also one of the seven major arms dealers.”

“I know that. During the Three School League, their advertisements were the most aggressive.”

Su Ming replied with a smile.

At this moment, a thin old man with a broad forehead, a calm expression, and a black suit, walked towards the head table with Young Master Gunnite.

“That is Lord Farsad of Fallenka Interstellar Heavy Industry, also one of the Federal Seven Major Arms Dealers.”

Su Yao immediately followed up with the introduction.

At this moment, Su Yao also walked towards the main table with Su Yuan.

“That Su Yao is the most promising among the younger generation of your Lei Shen Group! He was promoted to Major General a long time ago. As for Su Yuan, his strength is also very strong, and he has now been promoted to Brigadier General.”

Su Yao continued to introduce to everyone.

Su Ming looked at Su Yao with some surprise, not expecting him to know the Su Family so well.

At this time, Su Zhentian, Su Yiyang, and others also walked towards the main table.

Seeing this scene, Major Su Rui said to Su Yao,

“Great, Father, Grandpa is at the main table.”

“Yes.”

Su Yao replied with some emotion.

Su Bin and the others were also very excited to see Su Zhentian at the main table. This meant that Grandpa still held a very high position in the Su Family.

At this moment, Su Ming noticed an old man with a gloomy expression, gray and sparse hair, and cold eyes sitting beside Su Yiyang.

If he wasn’t mistaken, this guy should be Vice Patriarch Su Tianhao.

At this moment, Patriarch Su Feng walked to the podium and said with a smile,

“Everyone, please quiet down a bit!”

Immediately, the noisy hall gradually quieted down.

“I’m very happy that everyone can come to attend my grandson Su Yuan’s promotion banquet. I express my sincere gratitude here. Now, I invite my father and mother to come on stage and say a few words.”

Su Feng said with a smile.

At this moment, Su Mulong led an old woman with white hair, a slightly bent body, and a kind smile on her face onto the stage.

Clap clap!

Warm applause erupted at the scene.

At this moment, Su Mulong raised his hand, signaling everyone to be quiet, and then spoke with a booming voice,

“Damn it, I won’t say so much nonsense. Everyone present today, brothers and friends from all corners of the world, you all came from thousands of miles away to give me, Su, face. Everyone must eat and drink to your heart’s content! If you don’t eat well or drink well, then it’s me, Su, who was not hospitable, and you can complain however you want when you leave!”

“Haha!”

Everyone was also amused and laughed heartily.

At this moment, seeing that the atmosphere was just right, Su Mulong waved his hand and said,

“Let the banquet begin!”

Upon hearing this, many waiters brought out all the prepared dishes.

“Wow!”

Many people at the scene made surprised sounds as they looked at the dishes being served.

Su Ming was also a little shocked. The dishes served were extraordinarily luxurious, all made from precious natural ingredients.

Steamed Dragon Blood Fish, Rock Sugar Bird’s Nest Stewed Snow Clam…

At this moment, women in red cheongsams walked over, carrying well-decanted aged red wine, and softly asked guests if they wished to drink.

“Su Ming, hurry up and eat. This meal is very rare.”

Chen Ying said to Su Ming.

“I know.”

Su Ming replied with a slight embarrassment.

At this moment, Su Mulong led his old wife to the main table and sat down.

He turned to look at the silent Su Zhentian, originally wanting to say something.

But the words reached his lips and were swallowed back; he simply couldn’t bring himself to say them.

At this moment, Berudo showed a kind smile and said to Su Mulong,

“Old friend, I really envy you. All your children are so outstanding, and now even your great-grandson has made a name for himself and been promoted to Brigadier General.”

“That’s right, it’s truly enviable! I remember Su Yuan is only 35 this year, right? To be a Brigadier General at such a young age.”

Farsad also praised him highly.

In fact, people in this era have very long lifespans. Ordinary people can live 200-300 years. For giants like them, all their offspring are either New Humans or have received gene injections, making their lifespans even longer. 35 years old is completely a youthful state.

“Damn it, stop saying such meaningless things. It’s as if your children are so bad. Come, for our friendship and career, let’s have a toast!”

Su Mulong directly raised a full glass of wine and said to everyone at the table.

“Haha, well said! Cheers!”

Farsad and the others all raised their glasses and drank them down!

For a time, the atmosphere of the banquet became even more lively.

Everyone was eating, drinking, and chatting idly.

At this moment, Su Ming and Chen Ying also heard people at nearby tables discussing matters of the Thirteenth Corps.

“What do you think the Federal Government is thinking? The Thirteenth Corps clearly returned, but they just won’t show their faces.”

“The media isn’t allowed to report it publicly either.”

“The internet is going crazy discussing it.”

At this moment, Su Yao and the others also joined the conversation.

Su Ming then lowered his head and ate silently, occasionally feeding some delicious food to Little Gray.

At this moment, Chen Ying leaned over and whispered,

“Su Ming, don’t you feel something is wrong? The popularity of the Thirteenth Corps hasn’t faded; instead, it’s getting higher.”

“Of course, I do. This secrecy hasn’t worked; instead, it’s had the opposite effect.”

As Su Ming said this, a strange expression appeared on his face.

At this moment, he suddenly thought of something. The Star Radiance Fortress still hadn’t returned. Could this series of actions by the Federal Government be a reverse operation?

At the main table.

Su Mulong was also happy, his face flushed from drinking. He said to Farsad,

“Come, let’s have another toast!”

“Good!”

Farsad replied, giving him much face.

At this moment, the old clan matriarch, Lorelei, who was sitting next to Su Mulong, gently poked him with her hand and softly said,

“Don’t drink anymore, it’s almost time to entertain the other guests, and the children who have come home.”

Upon hearing Lorelei’s words, Su Mulong spoke,

“You all keep drinking. I’ll go entertain the other guests. Su Feng, take good care of them!”

“Go quickly, don’t worry about us!”

Farsad and the others replied with a smile.

Su Mulong and Lorelei then stood up and walked towards the other tables. Butler Xilun and a group of maids immediately followed behind them.

At this moment, Su Mulong and the others walked to Mainte’s table.

“Lord Su Mulong!”

Mainte and the others stood up, flattered, when they saw Su Mulong approaching.

“Sit, don’t be so polite. There are too many people today, so please bear with any lack of hospitality. I’ll have a drink with you!”

Su Mulong took a small glass of red wine handed by Butler Xilun and said to Mainte and the others.

“Good!”

Mainte and the others raised their glasses with smiles and drank them down.

“You all take your time eating. I’ll go greet the others.”

Su Mulong then walked towards the other tables.

At this moment, Mainte and the others were also chatting in very good spirits.

“Oh, Lord Su Mulong is really good; he doesn’t put on any airs at all!”

“That’s right, with his high status, he even personally entertains us.”

At this moment, Su Yao saw Su Mulong greeting tables one by one and immediately reminded Major Su Rui and the others,

“When Great-Grandfather and Great-Grandmother come over later, you must be polite and not embarrass your grandfather.”

“Mhm!”

Major Su Rui and the others nodded.

At this time, Su Qiu suddenly noticed that when Su Mulong and the others were greeting a table of guests, Great-Grandmother was still giving out red envelopes. He immediately asked, his heart stirring,

“Uncle, I saw Great-Grandmother seems to be giving out red envelopes. If she gives them to us, can we take them?”

“If an elder gives it, it’s polite to accept it, but don’t be surprised.”

Su Yao reminded in a deep voice.

“Okay!”

Su Qiu and the others replied with great joy.

Not long after, Su Mulong and Lorelei arrived at Su Ming’s table.

Su Yao and the others immediately stood up and asked,

“Grandpa, Grandma!”

“Great-Grandfather, Great-Grandmother!”

“Damn it, you’ve finally come home. Each of you has grown so big.”

Su Mulong looked at Su Yao and the others, also very happy.

These were all his biological grandsons and great-grandsons.

“It’s good that you’re back. Come home more often in the future.”

Lorelei said kindly.

“Come, have a drink with this old man!”

Su Mulong then raised his glass and said.

“Alright!”

Su Yao and the others all raised their glasses, and everyone immediately drank them down.

Immediately after, Su Mulong accompanied Lorelei and walked to Major Su Rui’s front.

Lorelei took out a stack of red envelopes, and Butler Xilun immediately stepped forward and introduced,

“This is your great-grandson, Young Master Major Su Rui.”

“Good, you’ve grown so big, I almost don’t recognize you. Here, this is a small token of Great-Grandmother’s affection.”

Lorelei picked up a red envelope and handed it to Major Su Rui.

“Thank you, Great-Grandmother!”

Major Su Rui said politely.

“Good child, sit down!”

Lorelei said kindly, then walked towards Su Bin.

She gave red envelopes to all the younger generation one by one.

Su Bin and the others, after receiving the red envelopes, all had excited smiles on their faces. These red envelopes were very thin, clearly containing cash checks inside.

Soon, Lorelei and the others walked to Su Ming’s front.

Butler Xilun respectfully said,

“This is your great-grandson, Young Master Su Ming.”

“Not bad, you’re quite handsome. Here, this is a small token of Great-Grandmother’s affection.”

Lorelei kindly picked up a red envelope and handed it to Su Ming.

Su Ming took the red envelope with both hands and replied politely,

“Thank you, Great-Grandfather, Great-Grandmother!”

At this moment, Su Mulong looked at Su Ming with a smile, then froze, frowned, and asked in confusion,

“Su Ming, have we met somewhere before?”

Su Ming was also startled when he heard Su Mulong’s words and looked at Su Mulong in surprise.

“No.”

Everyone present showed surprised expressions when they heard Su Mulong’s words.

Su Yao quickly explained,

“Grandpa, Su Ming has never been to the Su Family before, so it’s impossible for you to have met him.”

“Grandpa, you must have seen wrong. Su Ming has always stayed in the Thirteenth District and has never returned.”

Su Yuan also quickly followed up with an explanation.

“Old man, are you drunk? You’re seeing everyone as someone you’ve met.”

Lorelei also thought it was impossible for Su Mulong to have met Su Ming.

Su Mulong sized up Su Ming, his expression constantly changing, then he asked,

“Su Ming, have you been to the Council recently?”

As soon as these words came out, everyone was even more surprised.

Su Ming’s heart immediately sank, and he had a very bad premonition. However, he still stubbornly put on a brave face, forcing out a smile and replying,

“No, I haven’t!”

After hearing Su Ming’s words, Su Mulong raised his finger and pointed at Su Ming, saying,

“Damn it, it’s you, kid!”

“Old man, what are you doing? Don’t scare the child.”

Lorelei reminded Su Mulong.

“No mistake, come with me.”

Su Mulong then reached out and pulled Su Ming up, walking towards the main table.

Su Yao and the others were dumbfounded when they saw this scene.

Su Ming’s head was also buzzing.

At this moment, the guests present saw Su Mulong pulling Su Ming to the main table and having him sit next to him.

Everyone was in an uproar.

“What’s going on?”

“Who is that person? He’s actually being pulled to the main table.”

“I’m not sure!”

“That’s the main table!”