Chapter 133: Epilogue

Chapter 133: Epilogue

After leaving the lab, Yi Yi delegated this task to Zhi Zhi. The old professor, declared dead decades ago, had in fact been working for the chip all these years.

Perhaps his pursuit was a passion for scientific research. The chip had access to the world's best resources, which naturally benefited his studies. As for whether the chip would destroy humanity, that was beyond his scope of concern.

Everyone's pursuits differ. In his world, scientific research was paramount; everything else was secondary. For his students, however, the value of research did not outweigh their lives, hence their rebellion today.

After leaving the military base, Yi Yi headed to the Ebi Star government building. The sphere leader's overt courtship meant she owed an explanation, given her current position on Ebi Star.

Upon arriving at the government building, the sphere leader's secretary was already waiting at the door, indicating they were monitoring her movements closely, even without her saying she would come.

Now every planet was watching her, wondering if she would choose Hengyuan Star or Ebi Star.

So much wealth would need a successor, unless she left it to her own family.

"The sphere leader said you should rest first and report later. You're not a robot to be working non-stop," the secretary said warmly.

Yi Yi smiled faintly, "I'm actually planning to take a leave and rest for a while."

Hearing this, the secretary immediately nodded, "Of course."

However, his eyes shifted subtly. Her mention of 'rest' could mean a short break or a complete departure from Ebi Star.

Reaching the sphere leader's office, he would usually be resting at home at this time. Clearly, he knew she would come to report and was waiting in the office.

As the office door opened automatically, Yi Yi stepped inside. The room was filled with the aroma of tea, with a pot on the desk, soothing to the senses.

"I heard your father also enjoys tea. This one I've kept for decades. Take it with you as a token of my gratitude for raising such an exceptional daughter who resolved such a major threat for the star system," the sphere leader said, looking sentimental.

Yi Yi didn’t take a seat, standing erect, "This was all due to your adept leadership. I merely played a part. Anyone else in my place could have done the same."

Hearing this, the sphere leader smiled, "You don't have to be modest. Anyone can be a sailor, but not everyone is a qualified one. They often get lost in the tumultuous sea or drown in the surging waves. Only because you consistently held the sail aloft did we all overcome the difficulties and reach the shore of hope."

Yi Yi humbly bowed her head, then stepped forward to hand over the bag of chip fragments, "This is the chip. As for the terminal machine, as I mentioned on the phone, it was integrated into the chip's program. Now that the chip is destroyed, the terminal machine will also cease to exist."

Observing the crushed chip, the sphere leader nodded with a sense of gravity, sipping his tea as if recalling something, then gestured for her to sit and talk.

Yi Yi no longer held back and sat down on the opposite sofa.

"I might not believe others, but I trust your words," he said, looking intently at Yi Yi, "I know you are different. Your aspiration for power is for peace. I won't try to persuade you to stay. If you wish to return to Hengyuan Star and take over your father's position, I won't stop you. You have given so much to Ebi Star. The entire planet will remember your contributions and always keep your General's rank open for you."

His words were sincere and well-placed. It seemed like he wasn’t forcing her, but it was a strategic retreat. If she indeed left Ebi Star, it would confirm the notion that she used Ebi Star's military power for her purposes and left as soon as her goals were achieved, which would be seen as ungrateful and betraying a benefactor.

Although their relationship was mutually beneficial, Ebi Star's assistance was undeniable. His words weren't just to keep her; they also aimed to gain the wealth accumulated by the dark forces.

Indeed, it was a vast sum that, if utilized properly, could solve the current plight of many impoverished people, including the awkward situation of artificial humans.

"You're overthinking it. In my eyes, there are no sides. Anything that benefits human peace is the responsibility of us soldiers, whether I'm in Hengyuan Star or Ebi Star, there's no difference."

She spoke earnestly, "You overlooked my family background and entrusted me with important tasks. I should be thanking you. I believe your thoughts align with mine. Regarding this chip awakening incident, shouldn't we also look for causes within ourselves? Is the overdevelopment of technology justifiable?"

Hearing this, the sphere leader nodded earnestly, "What you said is indeed worth considering. These days, I've been reflecting. As Ebi Star leads in technology, should we not maintain a reverence for nature, especially the existence of intelligent robots? We can't overdevelop them anymore. Some positions could be freed up for citizens, addressing employment issues. We shouldn't seek convenience at the expense of public survival needs."

"Including the current severe ecological pollution, these issues need attention. I plan to use Tk Group's funds to address the severe pollution in the star system."

Yi Yi sipped her tea and slightly curved her lips, "It tastes much better than what our corps commander makes."

The sphere leader laughed, shaking his head, "He used to be hot-tempered, always causing trouble. After I taught him to drink tea, he gradually mellowed. Actually, tea helps reduce liver heat. Drinking it every day naturally calms one's disposition."

"Thank you for the tea. I will definitely take it back for my father," she said, picking up the tea leaves from the table.

Then she handed him a USB drive, "I found this in its program. It has dispersed funds across countless accounts, too numerous for big data to track. I’ve calculated it; it’s a substantial amount."

Seeing the device, the planet leader's breath hitched, but he maintained a serious demeanor, "These funds should be used to improve ecological pollution and maintain interstellar peace. Such wealth, derived from the people, should also benefit them."

The planet leader was fluent in official rhetoric. Yi Yi merely nodded, "That's for you to decide, but I'd like to use a portion to establish an Artificial Human Protection Association. Their chairman is dead, and I believe we should integrate them, not suppress them. After all, oppression breeds resistance. They deserve the same rights as anyone else."

Rather than letting them continue in the shadows, it's better to provide them a legitimate identity. Dissolving their organization hastily isn't feasible; they won't accept themselves just because of a diamond. But as long as it's for the betterment of the artificial human organization, they are unlikely to oppose.

"Your suggestion makes sense. I'll have someone handle it. In the future, we’ll also let them elect a representative to participate in the federal meetings. They are entitled to this right," the planet leader agreed.

Yi Yi saluted and said no more, then walked out with the tea leaves.

Of course, the planet leader would agree to anything, as the funds involved were far beyond what Ebi Star currently had.

She never considered leaving Ebi Star. After all, no matter where she was, the situation remained the same. As the strongest planet in the galaxy, any action by Ebi Star could stir interstellar unrest, and she needed to fulfill her duties there.

However, she didn't surrender all the funds; the amount was too vast. Should Ebi Star's power far exceed that of other planets, it would disrupt the galactic balance. Mutual checks and balances are always the best state.

The money handed over by the bodyguard was used by Zhi Zhi to establish a charity organization, aiding those unable to afford medical treatment or education. Yi Yi decided to control it personally, as she couldn't trust anyone else with it. She needed to ensure every penny was well spent – that was the true essence of serving the people.

After returning to the military base, she disengaged from other matters and slept soundly for a whole day and night. Her tense nerves finally relaxed, and even her appetite improved significantly.

When she awoke, the major planets had started broadcasting about Ebi Star uncovering a major case of human manipulation by a chip. Under pressure from other planets, Del Star's leader had no choice but to resign – the best possible outcome, as anything else would have been far worse.

The new leader of Del Star was a conservative figure. Despite online calls for Yi Yi to take the position, she remained indifferent. A soldier by nature, she was not necessarily a suitable politician. The chip was an expert manipulator of power, able to control everyone and even the galaxy for so long, only failing at the end due to human nature – the most unpredictable element in the world.

The planet leader gave her half a month's leave, but Yi Yi didn’t immediately return to Hengyuan Star, instead visiting the federal government's martyrs' cemetery.

Tu Yue's photo on the tombstone looked serious, as if always on edge, a trait Yi Yi seldom pondered deeply about.

Gazing at the photo on the tombstone, she knelt and neatly arranged bags of delicacies. In school, Tu Yue had once said she would bring her a share of the food, foreseeing a future where they would inevitably stand on opposing sides.

"Tu Yue..."

Hua Hua, with tearful eyes, also placed a bunch of flowers, looking at the photo of the stern, short-haired girl on the tombstone, her throat painfully dry, unable to utter a word.

Tu Yue was colder than Yi Yi. Though both seemed unapproachable, Tu Yue's aloofness stemmed from deep within. In school, Hua Hua never dared get too close, sensing danger, yet wishing her instincts would be wrong just once.

Rows of S-class members stood solemnly in front of the tombstone, all sharing a sense of loss. They never expected Tu Yue to be a mechanized being, and her sacrifice to reveal the truth. Had the federal government not disclosed everything, they would still believe Tu Yue was just a mechanized being, forever branded a traitor.

Under the clear blue sky, Yi Yi looked around at the surrounding tombstones, her thoughts drifting to Yun Li.

Yun Li's sacrifices had been acknowledged by Del Star, but having kept his distance from others, probably no one would remember him.

It's always like this in the world. Too many who sacrificed for justice are buried in the dust of history, forgotten and unacknowledged.

Walking out of the martyrs' cemetery and watching Qi Er and Hua Hua bickering again, Yi Yi slowly approached Chi Zhou, "I'm thinking of opening a charity organization on every planet. What do you think?"

Now with so much money at her disposal, it was essential to put it to good use, and she needed more partners.

"Sure, I can contribute a little to the cause," Qi Er immediately raised his hand.

The others chimed in, "Right, right, this shouldn't be just your responsibility."

Compared to the sacrifices made by Tu Yue and Yi Yi for humanity, contributing some money was insignificant. The main issue was limited information. Had they known earlier about Yi Yi's struggle against the chip, they would have surely lent their support. Unfortunately, since graduating, she had never contacted them, and they felt hesitant to reach out, fearing accusations of opportunism.

"Then, thank you," Yi Yi smiled, accepting their offer.

"Let's go eat. I know a great place," Qi Er earnestly suggested.

Hua Hua, wiping her tears, shot him an annoyed look, "At least wait until we've left the cemetery to talk about it."

Qi Er immediately retorted, "What can I do? We have to eat, right? Tu Yue would understand. It's rare for us all to be together, who knows if next time someone will be missing. We must cherish the hard-earned happiness we have now."

"Enough with your doom and gloom!" another guy chided, giving him a shove.

The group engaged in light-hearted banter, a rare moment of ease, though their smiles were more restrained compared to their school days.

"I have to return to Ketone Star to report," Chi Zhou said softly.

Having spent time at the federal government and undergone necessary tests, it was time for him to return to Ketone Star. Yi Yi looked up at the sun, "I need to go home too."

"Do you want to come with me?"

His calm voice was like a floating cloud, ethereal and uncertain, causing Chi Zhou to pause, a subtle turmoil hidden in his eyes. He then nonchalantly turned his head, "Okay."

"Aren’t you going back to report?" Yi Yi asked, glancing at him.

He appeared unfazed, "A day or two's delay won't matter."

Yi Yi smiled helplessly, "Do you always have such double standards?"

The others listened intently, barely containing their shock, unable to hide their surprise.

Was this an earth-shattering revelation?

Were these two developing feelings amid their conflicts? Is this how geniuses communicate affection nowadays?!

Qi Er and Muze were especially bewildered, questioning if they had misheard. But seeing Chi Zhou's awkward expression, how had they not noticed his masochistic tendencies?

No, it must be the law of attraction between the strong. Only Chi Zhou could enjoy this 'soft rice'; others wouldn’t withstand even a punch. Absolutely no mistake.

Could it be that this guy harbored intentions since school, hence failing the beauty trap?!

He had hidden it so well!

Ignoring the gossiping glances, Yi Yi got into her car alone. She wouldn't really disrupt Chi Zhou's work. Bringing him home for a meal could happen anytime, and it wasn't urgent. A formal dinner with both their parents would be more appropriate.

Now that a new order was restored, she shouldn’t avoid personal emotions anymore. She had always thought love was just a hormonal collision, but now realized that a soulful connection was more heart-touching. Even without words, they could sense each other's thoughts. Despite the distance, it felt close.

And he had eliminated her fear of marriage, for she believed Chi Zhou would never betray her.

After boarding the spaceship alone, Yi Yi didn't bring Zhi Zhi with her. Zhi Zhi should go home and meet with her parents. After such a long separation, it was a true reunion for her family.

Once back on Hengyuan Star, Huai An was already waiting for her, telling her about the delicious food her mother had prepared.

However, as she got out of the car, Yi Yi saw a familiar figure at the villa entrance.

The girl, dressed in a white dress, her hair draped behind her ears, gazed at her with clear, deep eyes filled with a mix of nervousness and uncertainty.

Yi Yi was also stunned. She had intended to take Xiao Bai out herself, not expecting her father to release her first, especially since they didn't like her getting too close to artificial humans.

"Sister..."

Xiao Bai approached with small steps, her clear eyes reflecting only Yi Yi's image.

Yi Yi reached out to touch her head, "You've grown taller."

At this, Xiao Bai bashfully lowered her head, "I've been exercising every day too."

The nutritionally balanced food in prison was the best she'd ever had, and she enjoyed watching TV, always hoping to catch a glimpse of her sister, believing Yi Yi to be the best person in the world, the only one speaking up for artificial humans. She felt fortunate to have met her.

"How about we go for a run together tomorrow morning?" Yi Yi suggested with a smile, patting her arm.

Xiao Bai shyly followed behind, "I definitely can't outrun sister. I also want to learn martial arts, so I can fend off bad people myself."

Yi Yi nodded approvingly at her initiative, "That's great, but remember to seek help when outnumbered, don’t be too stubborn."

Hearing this, Xiao Bai’s eyes welled up again. Despite telling herself not to cry, she couldn't help it. She wanted to become stronger, not to be a burden to others, and help her sister if possible. It was a pity she felt she only dragged her down.

Entering the living room, Yin Lan sat watching TV. Turning to them, she commented, "I told you she wouldn't be back so soon, but Xiao Bai insisted on waiting at the door for so long."

"It's okay, I'm used to standing at attention for hours in the military. It's not tiring," Xiao Bai replied modestly.

"This child is just too honest," Yin Lan said with a smile, getting up and heading towards the kitchen, "Let's have dinner. Your father cooked today."

Yi Yi had never eaten her father's cooking in her original memories, only recalling scenes of fleeting meetings. After changing her clothes, she went downstairs to wash her hands for dinner.

During the meal, she received a call from Hana, who was well-informed and knew she was on leave, inviting her for a meal.

An An can now live a normal life and is currently studying on Ebi Star with Nit. Nit doesn't plan to quit his job to stay home with the child. He seems quite comfortable working at the Federal Intelligence Bureau, happy not to compromise his conscience.

"Maybe some other time, I really need to rest for now," she said while descending the stairs.

The voice on the phone sounded surprised, "I thought you were made of iron and didn't need rest."

Yi Yi ignored the comment and decisively hung up the phone, only to see her mother looking at her kindly, a change from her usual remarks about Yi Yi and her father being too busy.

She promptly sat down at the dining table, pouring red wine for everyone. It was a rare happy occasion, so a glass wouldn’t hurt.

"This dish is burnt, how can anyone eat this?" Yin Lan commented, looking at the charred chicken chop.

Yun Te, wiping his hands, sat down, "Practice makes perfect. I’ll get it right after a few more tries."

"Not only is it burnt, but it’s also bland. You've got a lot to learn," Yin Lan said helplessly.

Yun Te glanced at Yi Yi, "When your mother first started cooking, the meat wasn’t even fully cooked, but I never said a word and ate it all."

Yi Yi couldn’t help but chuckle lightly, while Yin Lan looked displeased at him, "So you're saying I should eat all of this burnt food too?"

"I never said that," Yun Te coughed lightly and earnestly began to eat.

"I can cook quite well. Next time, I can make something for uncle and auntie," Xiao Bai timidly raised her hand.

Yin Lan immediately smiled and served her an unburnt piece of chicken chop, "Aren’t you planning to learn martial arts? Let Yi Yi teach you these few days. It's always good for a girl to know some self-defense, especially a sweet child like you."

Hearing this, Yi Yi was taken aback; her mother hadn’t spoken like this before.

"If I had encouraged her to learn self-defense earlier, she might not have had such a hard time at the military academy," Yin Lan said, her eyes reddening, then smiling at her daughter, "I'm proud of you."

So many had fallen on this path, but her daughter persevered against the current and made it to the end. How could she not be proud?

Yi Yi raised her glass to clink with her mother's, "It's also because of your and dad’s support. Otherwise, I might have not survived."

"Enough with the mutual flattery at home. Is my cooking so bad that you don’t want to eat?" Yun Te bit into a chicken chop, his brow furrowing slightly.

He was sure he had added enough salt.

"Xiao Bai and I can finish it all," Xiao Bai enthusiastically stuffed a mouthful of rice.

Yi Yi wasn’t picky either, savoring the rare opportunity to sit down for a warm meal, eating bite after bite.

Watching the two children eat earnestly, Yin Lan and Yun Te exchanged glances, their hands clasped under the table, sharing a resigned smile.

The dining room's light cast long shadows behind each person, filling every corner with a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

After dinner, Yi Yi went for a walk outside the villa with her father, the breeze bringing a rare tranquility and peace.

The past moments had always been hurried, but this was a true respite, without thoughts of the treacherous struggles and schemes.

"The moon seems exceptionally bright tonight," Yun Te said, looking up at the star-studded night sky.

Under the night sky, Yi Yi quietly gazed at the full moon, "When the clouds disperse, the moonlight naturally becomes bright and clear."

Walking through the courtyard, one behind the other, Yun Te suddenly lowered his head and sighed softly, "A moment's dispersal, yet one day it will all gather together again."

Yi Yi's gaze was resolute, "It may obscure the moon, but it cannot hide every star."

Even if dark clouds cover the sky, they cannot stop the stars from shining in their own corners, just like they have come together today.

[End of text]