Chapter 446 Farewell (Five in One)
by SunflowerAbyss of Fallen, Federal Defense Headquarters.
Inside Room A13.
Su Ming sat on the sofa, raising his wristband to browse the Star Cluster Forum. After looking for a long time, he couldn’t find any information or posts about Council Speaker Long Xian.
“You don’t need to look, it’s definitely been completely cleared out.”
Celes floated beside Su Ming, saying with a grin.
Upon hearing this, Su Ming closed the Star Cluster Forum, looked up at Celes, and asked,
“Celes, can you log into the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom’s Bright Forum?”
“Uh, that’s a bit difficult, not very easy to do.”
Celes looked troubled.
“Is it that hard? I see quite a few people have secretly logged in?”
Su Ming looked at Celes in confusion.
“Oh, how could it be that simple? But if you promise to play with me later, I’ll help you.”
“Alright, I promise you.”
“Haha, that’s great. Since you’ve sincerely asked me, I’ll reluctantly help you!”
“Okay, then I’ll trouble you.”
“Mmm, done.”
Celes glanced at Su Ming’s wristband and directly helped him bypass the firewall to connect to the Bright Forum.
Su Ming looked at this scene, both amused and exasperated. But he didn’t say anything, instead browsing the Bright Forum.
The entire Bright Forum was bustling, its interface turned gray, with an obituary pinned at the top.
“On July 12th, old era 4621, Saint Eleanor Knight Andefa led troops to raid the Abyss of Fallen’s internal federal defense line. During the battle, he was unfortunately ambushed and killed by Federal Lieutenant General Su Ming using despicable means, returning to the embrace of the gods. Emperor Van Lo announced that the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom would fly its flags at half-mast, and the entire nation would mourn!”
There were over a hundred million comments below the obituary.
“Federal Lieutenant General Su Ming is despicable, shameless, and low-class! He killed Lord Andefa by sneak attack. We are irreconcilable with him.”
“That Su Ming will not die a good death. God will surely cast his soul into endless purgatory, never to rise again!”
“We must avenge Lord Andefa!”
“That’s right, not being able to kill him directly is too easy for him. We must flay him alive.”
Su Ming’s mouth twitched as he read these comments; he felt like he had poked a hornet’s nest.
The people of the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom reacted too strongly to Andefa’s death, as if the sky had fallen.
However, it was normal. Andefa was one of the pillars of the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom. His death was tantamount to a corner of the sky collapsing for the common people.
Su Ming dismissed the obituary and continued to scroll down, then saw a highly trending official post and clicked on it.
“Federal Lieutenant General Su Ming has been officially placed on the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom’s highest-level red list for assassination, with a danger rating of Sun.”
“Brothers, the opportunity to achieve great deeds has come! As long as you can kill this Su Ming, you will receive a personal commendation from His Majesty the Emperor!”
“That’s right, kill him! He’s just a small lieutenant general, there’s nothing to be afraid of.”
Countless comments constantly refreshed.
Su Ming dismissed the post and continued to check other posts; nine out of ten were condemning him.
“Wow, so many people want your life, Su Ming. You’ve become completely famous in the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom. You know, you weren’t even that famous in the Federation. I estimate the Federal high-ranking officials probably don’t even know you killed Andefa right now.”
Celes said with a grin.
“That’s because news control is very strict on the Federation side, but strictness also has its benefits, take this Council Speaker video incident, for example. If it wasn’t cleared and controlled immediately, it would definitely cause major chaos. Although intelligent people can tell at a glance that someone is stirring up trouble, not everyone is that smart; there are always stubborn ones. Also, for areas like the Abyss of Fallen, which are relatively far and have limited information, once incited, it would be a disaster.”
Su Ming calmly said to Celes.
“You’re right, that’s the point.”
“But speaking of which, it feels like the Federation’s network technology is quite ordinary, often being invaded and breached. In contrast, the networks of the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom and the Dark Star Empire seem to be rarely heard of being invaded.”
“Who told you that? The network technology of Apocalypse and the Dark Star Empire is utter garbage. How dare they compare themselves to the Federation? If you don’t believe me, I’ll show you now; I don’t even need auxiliary equipment.”
After Celes finished speaking, she quickly initiated an invasion, her eyes rapidly flashing with large amounts of code.
In the blink of an eye, she successfully invaded the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom’s Bright Forum, gaining partial administrator privileges.
“Su Ming, look at the Bright Forum.”
Celes said proudly.
Su Ming heard Celes’s words, refreshed the Bright Forum, and immediately saw a post about Emperor Van Lo that replaced the obituary.
Secret Forbidden Love: Emperor Van Lo Falls in Love with Me.
Su Ming clicked in, bewildered, and several extremely eye-watering photos appeared.
Emperor Van Lo was seen clinging like a small bird to a burly man with an eighteen-pack.
Su Ming was stunned, not knowing what to say. The small workshop’s material was truly fierce.
The click-through rate of this post instantly reached several million.
The replies below were even crazier.
“Who is it! Who dares to blaspheme our Emperor!”
“Where are the administrators!”
“Delete it quickly!”
“Are you idiots? Who exactly is it who dares to slander the great Emperor.”
“See? Their technology is like shit compared to the Federation. The reason their network is fine is because no one is messing with them.”
Celes mocked disdainfully.
“If that’s the case, then why does the biological machine technology of the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom and the Dark Star Empire seem so strong? Not at all inferior to the Federation?”
Su Ming asked Celes with interest.
“Hmph, you call that technology? Let’s talk about the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom first. That Andefa, despite looking strong, was his final state a biological mecha? That was clearly a monster, wasn’t it? The pilot was even swallowed. It’s obvious the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom colluded with alien races and reached an agreement. As for the Dark Star Empire, that’s even simpler and cruder. They never intended for the pilots to live; they treated them as disposable consumables, not even human. As for the few pilots who weren’t abandoned, it has nothing to do with their mecha’s technology; it’s purely because they’re tough!”
“Makes sense!”
Su Ming nodded in response.
“I’m telling you, the Federation’s technology is the best, be content.”
Celes said to Su Ming with great pride.
“Mmm.”
Su Ming smiled and replied. Indeed, there’s no harm without comparison.
At this moment, a chaotic sound came from outside the door, somewhat noisy.
Su Ming looked out the door in confusion and slowly got up to walk over.
After a few days of recuperation, although his body hadn’t fully recovered, his basic mobility had returned.
When Su Ming opened the door and walked out, he saw Rhine, Ankajia, An Qi, and others holding large piles of gift boxes.
“Rhine, what are you doing? So many gift boxes in your hands.”
Su Ming asked curiously.
“Boss, they’re just too enthusiastic, it’s really hard to refuse their kindness!”
Rhine replied with a wry smile.
“What kindness is hard to refuse?”
Su Ming was utterly confused.
“Those girls, these gifts are all from them, asking us to bring them to you. And even we got some, it’s hard to refuse.”
Zhang Yi replied, grinning from ear to ear.
Upon hearing Zhang Yi’s words, Su Ming immediately felt a headache.
At this moment, Mia walked over and asked curiously,
“What are you doing here? Why are there so many gifts?”
“Teacher Mia, these are all from the girls in the headquarters, for the boss.”
Ankajia replied with a giggle.
Hearing this, Mia casually pulled a gift box from Rhine’s hand, then untied the ribbon and opened it. Inside was a box of chocolates.
“This chocolate is good! Let me see what brand it is. Norfei brand, this is pure natural chocolate, quite expensive! Wait, there’s a note here too.”
Mia opened the chocolate, took a piece to taste, an expression of surprise on her face, then flipped over the packaging and said.
“What does it say?”
Rhine and the others asked gossipy.
“Dear Lord Su Ming, the moment I saw you, I knew you were my destined Prince Charming, and I am your little sweetie.”
Mia read aloud while eating.
Su Ming’s face darkened, and he quickly spoke to stop her.
“Teacher Mia, don’t read anymore.”
“Haha, little sweetie.”
Mia was also laughing so hard that tears were almost falling.
“Rhine, you guys return all these things to them.”
Su Ming said to Rhine and the others with a dark face.
“Ah? Boss, is that okay? These are all good things, and wouldn’t returning them seem heartless?”
Rhine and the others asked hesitantly.
“That’s right, how bad would it be to return them! Little sweetie will be sad.”
Mia also chimed in.
“Teacher Mia, I haven’t even talked to you yet. You really are something; you knew how expensive this chocolate was, and you still opened it and ate it.”
Su Ming lectured Mia.
Synthetic chocolate isn’t expensive, but pure natural chocolate is ridiculously expensive.
Norfei brand chocolate is a very high-end brand.
“Alright, I didn’t say anything. At worst, I’ll pay you back a piece.”
Mia decisively conceded.
Just as Su Ming was about to say something more, his wristband suddenly vibrated, displaying a message.
He lowered his head to glance at the message, then said to Mia and Rhine,
“I won’t talk to you guys anymore, Commander Soleia is looking for me.”
“What does that old woman want with you?”
Mia asked curiously.
“I don’t know.”
Su Ming shook his head in response.
“Boss, do you want us to take you over?”
Rhine and the others asked with concern.
“No need, I’m recovering quite well now. You guys hurry and return all these things.”
After instructing Rhine and the others, Su Ming turned and left.
Not long after.
Su Ming took the mobile platform to the third floor of the headquarters and walked along the long corridor towards Commander Soleia’s office.
Along the way, the soldiers responsible for vigilance and security, seeing Su Ming approach, saluted him with admiration.
“General Su Ming!”
“Mmm!”
Su Ming nodded slightly in response.
Soon, he arrived at the door of Soleia’s office.
Knock knock!
Su Ming knocked on the door.
“Come in!”
A stern voice came from inside the office.
Su Ming pushed the door open and walked in.
Commander Soleia looked at Su Ming as he entered, her tense face softening into a warm smile as she said,
“You’re here, come sit!”
“Thank you, Commander.”
Su Ming then sat down in front of Soleia.
“Su Ming, how is your body now? Is it better?”
“Much better.”
“That’s good. This is your military merit application report. All your achievements in the Abyss of Fallen are written in it. You just need to submit it to the Council for review.”
Soleia picked up a file bag and handed it to Su Ming.
“Commander, you are…?”
Su Ming replied with some surprise.
“Su Ming, given your current physical condition, I wouldn’t dare assign you tasks while you’re still at the Abyss of Fallen defense line. So I was thinking of letting you return to the Third Planet to recuperate; the medical conditions there will also be better.”
“Understood.”
“There’s one more thing I’d like to ask for your help with.”
Commander Soleia said very politely.
Su Ming was a little flattered and quickly replied,
“Commander Soleia, please speak directly if there’s anything you need. As long as I can do it, I will not refuse.”
“Good, then I won’t beat around the bush. You’ve seen how severely damaged the internal defense line of the Abyss of Fallen is this time, haven’t you?”
“I have.”
“This is the aid and compensation report I submitted to the Council. Please help me deliver it to the Council. At the same time, I hope you can speak well of us to the Council and ask them to approve more aid and compensation funds for us.”
Soleia took out a very thick file bag, handed it to Su Ming, and pleaded.
In Soleia’s view, those people in the Council were extraordinarily stingy. They would always try to get rid of you with one dollar and would never pay an extra cent.
Su Ming represented the Council in providing support, so he was clearly a member of the Council faction. If he was willing to help, he should be able to speak up in the Council.
Therefore, Soleia personally asked Su Ming for help.
Upon hearing this, Su Ming also found it difficult. He knew better than anyone how stingy the Council was.
However, he did not refuse Commander Soleia. Instead, he reached out and took the file bag, took a deep breath, and said,
“Commander Soleia, even if you didn’t say anything, for the sake of the fallen soldiers, I would do my utmost.”
“Your words are enough. I thank you on behalf of all the soldiers.”
Soleia Commander said with great gratitude.
“It’s what I should do. I’ll be leaving now.”
Su Ming replied humbly.
“Alright.”
Soleia nodded.
Su Ming took the file bag and turned to leave the office.
——
Starlight City, City Lord’s Mansion Hall.
Old generals, dressed in high-ranking military uniforms, with white hair, firm faces, and sharp eyes, along with old men in various luxurious outfits and extraordinary demeanor, gathered in the hall, discussing agitatedly.
“What’s going on? We’ve been waiting here for half a day, and City Lord Gakels still hasn’t seen us.”
“Is he feeling guilty?”
“I don’t know, but if he doesn’t let us see the Council Speaker, then he’s definitely feeling guilty!”
“Such a big incident happened, and it’s just an announcement and a cleanup, and that’s it?”
“Sirs, City Lord Gakels has been feeling unwell lately, and it’s really not suitable for him to meet so many guests. Why don’t you all go back first?”
Cloud Soft advised apologetically.
“No, no matter how late it gets today, we have to see him!”
“Exactly!”
The people present replied dissatisfiedly.
Cloud Soft looked at the situation and felt a bit helpless.
At this moment, a middle-aged man with rough skin and a strong face, wearing a third-generation exoskeleton armor, rushed in and shouted,
“Lord Cloud Soft!”
“Captain Cannab, what happened?”
Cloud Soft turned her head to look at Captain Cannab and asked.
Cannab ran to Cloud Soft’s side and whispered a few words in her ear.
Cloud Soft’s expression immediately changed, and then she said,
“You first take them to the back hall. I’ll go inform Lord Gakels.”
“Alright.”
Cannab quickly responded.
Cloud Soft then hurriedly left the hall.
Inside the office.
Gakels sat at his desk, his hand on his forehead, looking very haggard.
At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Cloud Soft walked in, somewhat flustered, and said,
“Lord Gakels, this is bad.”
“Is Faraon here?”
Gakels sighed and replied. What was meant to come, would come eventually.
“No, it’s Lord Long Chen, Lord Long Shadow, and Lord Dragon Lan who are visiting.”
Cloud Soft reported to Gakels.
“What did you say? This time, the trouble is big.”
Gakels stood up directly from his chair, his face looking very unpleasant as he spoke.
He had originally thought that Faraon, that reckless fellow, would come and cause a scene, but he didn’t come. Instead, the three of them, Dragon Dust, came.
“Lord, what do we do now?”
“What else can we do? We can only receive them. Where are they?”
“I’ve already had Cannab take them to the back hall.”
Cloud Soft said to Gakels.
“Let’s go to the back hall.”
Gakels took a deep breath and left the office with Cloud Soft.
Soon, they arrived at the back hall, where they saw the three of them, Dragon Dust, sitting on the guest chairs, leisurely drinking brewed tea.
“Lord Long Chen, Lord Long Shadow, Lord Dragon Lan. You’re here, and you didn’t even say anything in advance, so I could greet you at the door.”
Gakels walked into the back hall with Cloud Soft, greeting them very warmly.
The three of them, Dragon Dust, stood up from their chairs and replied very politely,
“There’s no need to be so formal.”
“Yes, the rules cannot be broken. Please be seated, three Lords.”
Gakels gave the three of them, Dragon Dust, enough face.
In fact, City Lord Gakels and Commander Alec De are both stewards of the Long Family. One manages the economy and government affairs of Starlight City, and the other manages the Long Family’s army.
However, the three of them, Dragon Dust, are all children of the Council Speaker. If it’s just about family, their status is higher than Gakels.
Of course, the reason why Dragon Dust and the others are so polite to Gakels is because they need Gakels’ support to ascend to power.
“Alright.”
The three of them, Dragon Dust, sat down again.
“I wonder, Lord Long Chen, is there something in particular for your sudden visit?”
Gakels asked as if nothing was amiss.
“Gakels, to be honest, we’re here for that video.”
Dragon Dust said to Gakels.
“Lord Long Chen, that video was synthesized by the Mechanical Cult, specifically to provoke and divide us internally.”
Gakels quickly explained.
“Lord Gakels, don’t worry, we naturally don’t believe that video. But you also know that our three siblings haven’t seen our father for a hundred years. As children, we truly miss him very much. Do you think we could meet our father?”
Dragon Dust gazed at Gakels and said.
“Third Brother is right.”
Long Shadow and Dragon Lan echoed simultaneously.
Gakels’ heart immediately sank to the bottom. The request made by the three of them, Dragon Dust, was actually not excessive, and it was reasonable.
The problem was that the three of them could not be allowed to see the Council Speaker right now.
However, these three were not so easy to put off, and don’t be fooled by their seemingly easy-going demeanor; that’s just on the surface.
Dragon Dust is the Federation’s largest arms dealer, Long Shadow controls the City of Sin and the Underworld Prison, and Dragon Lan controls the Federation’s largest logistics production base.
Each of the three has a considerable private army in their hands, and if they turn hostile, it’s no laughing matter.
However, Gakels still bit the bullet and advised,
“Lord Long Chen, listen to me, the Council Speaker’s current state is not suitable for meeting people.”
“Lord Gakels, just let us see him. If it’s really not possible, even a distant glance would be fine. This request isn’t too much, is it?”
Dragon Dust said politely to Gakels.
“Third Brother is right. You wouldn’t even give us this much face, would you?”
Long Shadow said coldly.
Dragon Lan then spoke in an unenthusiastic tone.
“Lord Gakels, we trust you very much, but we hope you don’t betray our trust by trying to put us off with those perfunctory words.”
Gakels’ old face changed for a moment, then he sighed and said,
“Lord Long Chen, listen to me, I cannot make the decision on this matter. In fact, I can’t even see the Council Speaker. Right now, only Lord Long Bai can see the Council Speaker. Therefore, if you wish to see the Council Speaker, you need to get Lord Long Bai’s permission.”
“Hmph! Lord Long Bai is just a junior. We want to see our own father, and we need our niece’s permission? What kind of nonsense is that?”
Dragon Lan slammed the armrest, stood up, and spoke angrily.
“Lord Dragon Lan, please calm down! While what you say is true, the problem is that when the Council President was in seclusion, he specifically instructed that all matters concerning him would be handled by Lord Long Bai.”
Gakels explained to Dragon Lan.
Long Shadow snorted coldly upon hearing this and said,
“Alright, if that’s the case, then call Lord Long Bai back. We’ll speak with her face-to-face!”
“I think Fifth Brother makes sense. Since you, Lord Gakels, cannot make the decision on this matter, then let Lord Long Bai discuss it with us.”
Dragon Dust said lightly.
Although Dragon Dust’s tone was calm, his attitude was very strong and firm.
“Three Lords, please don’t be impatient. Lord Long Bai is already on her way back. How about we discuss this matter in person once Lord Long Bai returns?”
Gakels replied politely.
“Alright!”
The three of them, Dragon Dust, seeing Gakels say this, did not continue to make things difficult for him.
…
——
Abyss of Fallen, Federation Defense Line Headquarters.
Inside Room A13.
Su Ming changed into a simple, form-fitting casual outfit, raised his wristband to send a message, then opened the door and left.
Sky Realm City, Interstellar Rail Station Exit.
Su Ming walked out and went straight to the side of the street, extending his hand to hail a cab.
A black taxi drove over and stopped in front of Su Ming.
Su Ming opened the car door and sat in the front passenger seat.
“Sir, where are you going?”
A frank and hearty uncle asked enthusiastically.
“Uncle, I want to ask if there’s any good wine in Sky Realm City?”
Su Ming pondered for a moment and asked.
“You’ve asked the right person! Sky Realm City is operated by the Heintz Family, and the Heintz Family primarily deals in water resources, so they also operate various wine businesses. Among them, one wine is particularly famous!”
The uncle said to Su Ming.
“What wine?”
“Red Flower Fall, that’s a super famous good wine.”
“Uncle, have you ever drunk it?”
“Sir, you’re really joking. How could I have drunk it? I haven’t even smelled it.”
“Then, Uncle, do you know where Red Flower Fall is sold in Sky Realm City?”
“Of course, I know that.”
“Then let’s go there.”
Su Ming said to the uncle.
“Alright!”
The uncle then stepped on the accelerator and drove off into the distance.
After more than ten minutes.
The uncle drove the car to the most prosperous commercial street in Sky Realm City. He parked the car by the roadside and pointed forward, saying,
“See that Red Leaf Winery up ahead? That’s the exclusive store for Red Flower Fall.”
“Thank you.”
Su Ming paid the fare and got out of the car.
He walked towards the Red Leaf Winery and soon arrived at the storefront.
This shop was decorated very high-end.
Su Ming walked directly into the store and was greeted by rows of wine racks, on which various fine wines were placed.
At this moment, a tall female service attendant, wearing a red cheongsam and with a beautiful face, walked forward and greeted him politely,
“Sir, are you here to buy wine?”
“Yes, I want to buy Red Flower Fall.”
Su Ming said simply.
“Uh, sir, you want to buy Red Flower Fall?”
The female service attendant in front of him replied somewhat at a loss.
“Hmm, is there a problem?”
“Sir, Red Flower Fall is very expensive, 100 million per bottle, and it seems the store is out of stock right now.”
“Out of stock?”
“Yes. Why don’t you ask our boss?”
“Who’s your boss?”
“It’s that one.”
The female service attendant pointed to the counter inside.
Su Ming turned his head to look and saw a young man sitting at the counter, wearing a floral shirt and biting a cigarette in his mouth. The young man seemed to be watching something, and his expression was very excited.
Su Ming walked over upon seeing this.
At this moment, Catero watched the combat footage presented in the video and shouted excitedly,
“Go! Go! Kill him!”
“Boss, I’m here to buy wine.”
Su Ming walked next to Catero and said.
“No wine, go away!”
The young man replied impatiently.
Su Ming was also stunned and leaned over curiously to take a look.
He saw that the young man was watching the combat footage of Ilyinas and the Fallen Angel.
Su Ming was also taken aback. Where did this guy get this combat video, and why was the filming angle so good?
“Charge! Charge! Kill him!”
This Catero shouted, extremely excited.
Soon, the footage played to the point where Ilyinas engulfed the Fallen Angel.
“Awesome! Haha! How could Apocalypse Divine Kingdom’s trash bio-mechs be a match for the Federation’s bio-mechs? The Federation is the strongest!”
Catero laughed excitedly.
Then Catero pressed off the video, satisfied, but when he looked up, he saw Su Ming, who was deep in thought.
He was stunned for a moment, then asked,
“Who are you?”
Su Ming came back to his senses, coughed, and said,
“I’m here to buy wine.”
“Oh, I’m sorry, I was busy just now. What wine do you want to buy?”
Catero then asked.
“I’m buying Red Flower Fall.”
Su Ming wasn’t angry and told Catero directly.
“Red Flower Fall? I’m sorry, that wine is sold out, and we can’t get any more in stock. Why don’t you look at something else?”
Catero was also a bit surprised; Red Flower Fall was very expensive, and usually, not many people bought it.
“Alright.”
Su Ming replied with some regret.
“Sir, let me show you other wines.”
At this moment, the female service attendant walked over and said respectfully.
“No need, I’ll look myself.”
Su Ming walked towards the wine cabinet next to him, browsing other wines.
At this moment, the shop door opened again, and Evelyn walked in, quite annoyed, carrying a bottle of wine. She came to the counter, placed the wine directly on it, and said angrily to Catero,
“Return the wine!”
“Oh, Miss Evelyn, who made you angry?”
Catero greeted her with a smile.
“It’s none of your business. Are you returning it or not?”
Evelyn replied grumpily.
She was really furious with Mia. She kindly brought wine to apologize, but Mia was so ungracious.
Now that the wine hadn’t been given away, and she didn’t drink, she could only return it.
“Return it, of course, return it.”
Catero said very readily.
The female service attendant, seeing Evelyn wanted to return the wine, quickly left and walked to Su Ming’s side, smiling as she said,
“Sir, someone just came to return Red Flower Fall. Do you still want it?”
“Yes!”
Su Ming replied without thinking.
“Please follow me.”
The female service attendant then led Su Ming towards the counter.
Soon, they arrived at the counter. Su Ming was startled to see Evelyn checking out and immediately greeted her.
“Lord Evelyn.”
“Su Ming, why are you here?”
Evelyn was also surprised to see Su Ming, finding it quite unexpected.
“I’m here to buy the Safflower Dew.”
Su Ming didn’t hide anything.
Upon hearing Su Ming’s words, Evelyn’s eyes lit up. She then picked up the bottle of Safflower Dew, handed it to Su Ming, and said,
“It’s a gift for you.”
“No, I can’t let you pay for it.”
Su Ming quickly refused.
“Don’t be polite with me, it’s for you.”
Evelyn placed the wine in Su Ming’s hand and turned to leave.
Seeing this, Su Ming quickly caught up, stopping Evelyn and saying,
“Lord Evelyn, this isn’t appropriate! This wine is very expensive; I can’t just take it for free. What’s your card number? I’ll transfer the money to you.”
“There’s nothing inappropriate about it. Didn’t you save me on the battlefield before? I’ve always wanted to find an opportunity to thank you. Just accept it.”
Evelyn said with a slight blush on her cheeks.
“This…”
“If you don’t accept it, I’ll feel very uneasy.”
“Alright then.”
Seeing Evelyn say this, Su Ming accepted it.
“I have other things to do; I’ll be leaving now.”
Evelyn left somewhat flustered.
Seeing Evelyn leave so quickly, Su Ming shook his head helplessly, then left with the wine.
Cattero looked at the departing figures of Evelyn and Su Ming and couldn’t help but murmur,
“Did the sun rise from the west today?”
“Young Master Cattero, it’s rare to see Miss Evelyn so close to anyone, and she just gives away such expensive wine.”
A girl next to him asked curiously.
“What’s so strange about it? Spring has arrived, that’s all.”
Cattero said with a smile.
“I see.”
…
At dusk.
Outside the Azure Restaurant.
Su Ming stood there quietly, holding the Safflower Dew, waiting.
Just then, a familiar voice came.
“I’m here!”
Su Ming turned his head to look, only to see Mia wearing a white shirt with buttons that looked like they were about to pop, a black jacket over it, a black hip-hugging skirt, black stockings, and high heels. Her golden hair cascaded over her shoulders, making her look incredibly beautiful, exuding a mature aura and charm in her demeanor.
Su Ming was slightly stunned, somewhat amazed, but he quickly adjusted himself and said with a smile,
“Teacher Mia, you’re late.”
“Cough, cough, well, something delayed me.”
Mia replied somewhat awkwardly.
“Alright, then let’s eat seafood.”
“Uh, seafood… let’s skip it, there’s nothing good to eat.”
“It’s fine, my treat.”
Su Ming said with a smile.
Actually, when Rhine suggested seafood last time, Su Ming somewhat realized that Mia wasn’t unwilling to eat it, but rather short on cash.
“Let’s skip it. Let’s still go to that barbecue place.”
Mia shook her head and replied.
She didn’t want Su Ming to spend too much; seafood was not just expensive, even for two people, the cost would be considerable.
“Alright.”
Su Ming agreed when Mia said so.
The two walked together, and along the way, passersby couldn’t help but look at them, turning their heads at an incredibly high rate.
Soon, they arrived at the barbecue restaurant.
They found it very lively, with all the stone tables occupied.
“So many people? It seems there’s no space.”
Su Ming said, a little surprised.
“Small matter, watch me!”
Mia walked directly to the owner and called out,
“Boss!”
“Oh, isn’t this Lord Mia? You’ve arrived!”
“Yes.”
“But Lord Mia, there are too many people today, no space left.”
The owner said somewhat apologetically.
“It’s fine, there are only two of us.”
Mia said to the owner.
“That’s simple. I’ll set up a table for you.”
The owner then moved a simple iron table and set it up by the nearby river.
Su Ming and Mia immediately sat down.
“What would you like to eat?”
The owner asked enthusiastically.
“The usual, just bring whatever.”
Mia wasn’t that particular.
“Alright!”
The owner replied with a smile.
Soon, plates of grilled meat were brought out.
Su Ming then picked up the Safflower Dew, placed it on the table, and said,
“Teacher Mia, this is for you.”
“Wow, Safflower Dew! This is good wine! I really didn’t spoil you for nothing.”
Mia’s eyes immediately lit up, and she said with a wide smile.
“Heh heh.”
Su Ming chuckled.
However, after Mia picked up the bottle of Safflower Dew, the more she looked at it, the more familiar it seemed, looking very much like the bottle Evelyn had given her.
In fact, after she returned the wine to Evelyn, her heart ached for a long time.
“Teacher Mia, what’s wrong? Is there something wrong with this wine?”
Su Ming asked curiously, seeing Mia constantly looking at the wine.
“There’s nothing wrong with this wine, but why does it look so familiar to me? It feels so much like Evelyn’s bottle?”
Mia asked suspiciously.
“Wine, well, they’re all pretty similar.”
Su Ming’s expression instantly stiffened, and he quickly said.
It would be awkward if she knew it was from her sworn enemy.
“That makes sense. Let’s have a toast!”
Mia then twisted open the cap and poured a glass for each of them.
“Cheers!”
Su Ming and Mia clinked glasses and drank it all in one gulp.
The wine was very smooth, not strong, and went down easily, warming the stomach. It was indeed very good.
“Good wine!”
Mia praised with great satisfaction.
“As long as you like it.”
“Oh, right, you little rascal, why did you suddenly think of treating me to a meal?”
Mia asked curiously.
Su Ming’s action of pouring wine instantly paused.
Mia also keenly noticed and then pressed on,
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing, it’s just that I accepted a mission from Soleia Commander and need to return to the Federation. I’ll recuperate there for a bit, then I’ll be leaving.”
Upon hearing this, Mia’s expression also darkened. She then picked up her wine, took a sip, and said,
“You’re leaving so soon?”
“Yes.”
“What mission did that old woman give you?”
Mia asked while drinking her wine.
“It’s not much of a mission, just to help me ask the Council for aid and compensation.”
Su Ming said, taking a sip of wine.
“You’d take such a thankless task? You know the Council is very stingy.”
Mia also reminded him, a little surprised.
“I have to take it. We can’t let the soldiers who fought and bled on the front lines die in vain, can we? We have to fight for more for them, no matter what.”
Su Ming replied calmly.
“That’s true, but don’t you know the Council is also out of money?”
Mia reminded Su Ming.
“No money? If we try to squeeze it out, there’s always some.”
“Squeeze? Squeeze from where? If you squeeze from below, the people below will probably rebel directly. If you squeeze from the people above, those guys will never let you off the hook.”
“This… I’ll think about it.”
Su Ming said, rubbing his temples.
“Forget it, let’s not talk about that. Cheers!”
Mia raised her glass and said.
“Cheers!”
Su Ming raised his glass, clinked it with Mia’s, and drank it all.
Gentle breezes wafted by.
The two sat by the river, drinking and chatting about past events.
The river beside them was adorned with various beautiful lotus lanterns and paper boats.
After a long while, the entire bottle of Safflower Dew was completely finished. Mia said, still not quite satisfied,
“No more wine, I’ll go ask the boss for some.”
“I’ll go.”
Su Ming immediately stood up.
“Alright then, just get ten cases of beer.”
Mia wasn’t picky.
“…”
Su Ming walked straight away.
When he arrived at the stall, he saw the boss chatting very animatedly with a few drinking customers.
He walked over, and as he approached, he heard the customers’ casual conversation.
“I’m telling you, that biological mech from the Federation is truly amazing!”
“I’ve seen the video; that Alec De didn’t die unjustly at all.”
“I feel like the aura of that biological mech is similar to Dragon Destroyer; it can probably rival General Gabres.”
“I feel the same way, but it’s incredible that he can rival General Gabres! You know how strong General Gabres is!”
“True. Oh, by the way, who is piloting that biological mech?”
“It seems to be a general named Su Ming? I’m not entirely sure about the details.”
Su Ming felt a bit awkward hearing them discuss him, then he cleared his throat and called out,
“Boss.”
The boss heard Su Ming call him and immediately said to the customers,
“You all chat, I’ll attend to the customer.”
“Go ahead.”
The customers replied with a smile.
The boss quickly greeted Su Ming.
“Sir, what would you like?”
“Do you have beer? Bring two cases first.”
“No problem.”
“By the way, Boss, why are there so many people today? Is it some kind of festival?”
Su Ming asked curiously.
“It’s not a festival today, but many people have come to release blessing boats and lotus lanterns to pray for the deceased Federation soldiers.”
The boss explained to Su Ming.
“Ah? For the Federation soldiers?”
“Yes, they are all their families and friends.”
“Wait, their families live here?”
Su Ming asked curiously.
“Of course. This place is so far from the Federation; many soldiers and officers have moved their families here. As for releasing blessing boats and lotus lanterns, that’s a tradition of Sky Realm City. Those blessing boats and lotus lanterns will follow the river to a downstream diversion point. From the bottom of Sky Realm City, they are released into the starry sky, drifting towards the Abyss of Fallen. Legend has it that those blessing boats and lotus lanterns will carry the souls of deceased soldiers to be reincarnated.”
The boss explained to Su Ming.
“I see.”
Su Ming nodded in response.
“Sir, are those grilled skewers enough for you? Or should I bring you some more?”
The boss asked enthusiastically.
“Alright, just bring some more randomly.”
Su Ming instructed as he walked towards Mia.
At this moment, Mia saw Su Ming return and couldn’t help but complain,
“Why are you so slow?”
“Nothing, just chatted with the boss for a bit. The drinks will be here soon.”
Su Ming replied with a smile.
“Good, tonight we drink until we drop!”
Mia said very happily.
“Cheers!”
Su Ming replied with a smile.
Several hours later.
Abyss of Fallen · Federation Frontline Headquarters.
Su Ming was helping Mia walk towards her room. Mia was leaning entirely on Su Ming, her face flushed, constantly mumbling,
“One more drink, I can still drink.”
“Teacher, just hold on a little longer, we’re almost there.”
Su Ming replied with a bitter smile.
He hadn’t expected the Safflower Dew to have such a strong aftereffect. It was fine after drinking it, but when they started drinking beer, the aftereffect began to kick in.
Soon, Su Ming helped Mia to her room door and reached out to open it.
He supported Mia into the bedroom, reached out, picked her up, and carefully placed her on the bed.
After doing this, Su Ming let out a small sigh of relief, then gently reached out to take off Mia’s jacket.
However, as soon as he took off the left shoulder, Mia immediately raised her left shoulder.
Su Ming was stunned, then chuckled, and reached to take off the right shoulder, but Mia raised her right shoulder again.
For a moment, Su Ming was a little exasperated.
Next, he reached out and took off her high heels and stockings, then picked up the blanket and covered Mia.
After doing all this, Su Ming carefully exited the room.
Once the door closed, Mia slowly opened her eyes and said with a slight smile,
“This kid, he’s quite the gentleman.”
In the hallway, Su Ming had just exited the room.
Rhine and the others walked over, speaking one after another,
“Boss.”
“Is everything ready?”
Su Ming looked at Rhine and the others and asked.
“Yes.”
Rhine and the others replied seriously.
“Good, let’s go.”
Su Ming then led Rhine and the others away, heading to Fallen Light.
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