Chapter 71

Chapter 71

071

I love you.

With no other choice, Chu Li could only lean down and tightly embrace Jing Baiyuan Ting.

Both of them leaned on each other without speaking, only the sound of their beating hearts filling the air.

Of course, Jing Baiyuan Ting declined the invitation from Blue Vein Star. However, to their surprise, Blue Vein Star publicly announced that they would broadcast Augustus's funeral live.

No one had ever broadcast a funeral before, so it was clear that Blue Vein Star was deliberately provoking Jing Baiyuan Ting.

On the day of the live broadcast, the big screen in the base's cafeteria aired it in full.

Out of concern for Jing Baiyuan Ting, Chu Li put aside his work temporarily and stayed with him in his command center.

Since early morning, Jing Baiyuan Ting had worn an unusually calm expression, seemingly unaffected by this sudden turn of events. But Chu Li, who knew his character well, noticed that Jing Baiyuan Ting was particularly quiet that day, with an unusually cold gaze.

It was as if he had created an invisible shield around himself, refusing to reveal any of his emotions.

And so, it reached noon. Chu Li had initially planned to have lunch with Jing Baiyuan at another location. Although the funeral was being live-streamed on Blue Vein Star, they didn't have to watch it! But to his surprise, just as they reached the cafeteria entrance, Jing Baiyuan came to a halt.

Chu Li turned to look at him, "Yuanting?"

Jing Baiyuan, who had already agreed to Chu Li's invitation, suddenly said, "Let's just eat in the cafeteria."

Chu Li grew anxious. He hadn't asked Jing Baiyuan out to keep him company but to spare him from watching the live-stream in the cafeteria!

He turned back, about to say something, only to see Jing Baiyuan standing by the cafeteria door, gazing quietly at the large screen inside through the windows.

At that moment, the screen displayed a woman's profile.

The woman appeared very young, dressed in an all-white attire that resembled mourning clothes. With a dazed expression, she was being supported as she descended the steps.

Soon, the camera shifted to show the woman's full face. She was indeed very beautiful... yet there was something familiar about her brows.

Chu Li widened his eyes and turned to Jing Baiyuan, "That is..."

Jing Baiyuan Ting replied, "It's her."

It was Bai Xian.

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Chu Li couldn't help but clench his palms. How could it be so coincidental? Just as Jing Baiyuan passed by, he happened to witness Bai Xian's scene. Now, there was no way he would leave.

Chu Li could only accompany him into the cafeteria. Although it was mealtime and filled with people, nobody was eating. They all sat silently in their seats, attentively watching the scene unfolding on the large screen.

Soon, Chu Li understood the coincidence – it was all because of that damn Lancelot! He had been broadcasting Bai Xian's every move all along.

She descended the steps and entered the vehicle... and the live stream shifted to inside the car. Bai Xian indeed looked dazed, like a child, playing with his sleeves while keeping his head lowered the entire time.

The car drove for a few minutes before stopping. Someone assisted her out, and they stepped into the funeral scene.

The funeral was luxuriously decorated for some reason, packed with people as far as the eye could see. Lancelot had seemingly invited everyone he possibly could.

Attending his own funeral.

Upon reading this, Chu Li grew concerned about Jing Baiyuan's emotional state and discreetly held his hand under the chair. Jing Baiyuan gently shook his head in response, assuring him that he was alright.

Following this was a lengthy funeral ceremony. Lancelot had even arranged for a master of ceremonies to read out Augustus's accomplishments during the event.

"Today, we mourn the loss of our greatest emperor, Augustus Ba Telei, the Gatekeeper of Time, whose era has come to an end."

"Under his rule, we witnessed the most glorious and prosperous times of our empire. His life was adorned with technological marvels and emerging prosperity. During his tenure, we collectively excavated..."

Listening attentively, Chu Li couldn't help but frown as he leaned closer to Jing Baiyuan, whispering, "Doesn't he feel awkward praising himself so much?"

Jing Baiyuan, despite his initial gloom, couldn't resist the urge and burst into laughter upon hearing this.

He lowered his gaze to Chu Li, who blinked innocently in return. Jing Baiyuan, with a hint of helplessness in his voice, sighed, "You..."

Upon further reflection, Chu Li's words held merit. He agreed, "Yes, he doesn't seem to feel any embarrassment at all."

Chu Li scratched his cheek, feeling that he might have corrupted Jing Baiyuan's pure nature.

The funeral ceremony was lengthy, filled with readings of accomplishments followed by segments of unclear significance. If not for the solemn atmosphere, Chu Li would have almost mistaken it for a festive gala.

As time dragged on from twelve to two, Chu Li grew weary from sitting and stealthily shifted his position to find some comfort.

Just then, the camera panned out to focus on the viewing platform. Chu Li understood Lancelot's intention—switching the angle to ensure that Bai Xian was visible to all, especially Jing Baiyuan, who was miles away.

On stage, Bai Xian seemed lost in thought, gazing blankly at the sky. Her eyes accidentally met the aerial camera's lens, and in that instant, Chu Li felt as if he were locking gazes with her across great distances.

Bai Xian, who had been expressionless, suddenly smiled and waved at the camera with an outstretched hand.

It was as if she were greeting someone.

Upon witnessing this gesture, Chu Li turned to look at Jing Baiyuan, who indeed had his eyes glued to the screen.

He was not devoid of affection for his mother; rather, circumstances constrained him to suppress his longing.

It was better to have a son who didn't care than one who constantly yearned for her.

Little did Chu Li expect that even a simple greeting between them would have to be conveyed across vast distances. A twinge of sorrow welled up in him, yet he also sensed that Jing Baiyuan should be feeling joyous at this moment. Indeed, a faint hint of a smile flickered in Jing Baiyuan's eyes.

However, before the smile could spread further, his expression suddenly changed.

Chu Li was taken aback and promptly turned his head to look at the screen.

Their viewing platform was very high, appearing to be several meters above ground from a distance. As Augustus's current wife, Bai Xian sat in the most prominent position.

But she suddenly climbed over the railing behind her, disappearing from view on the other side of the platform.

The funeral ceremony descended into chaos. The operator of the aerial camera probably hadn't anticipated this turn of events, for the camera shook abruptly before shifting its focus to the blue sky.

Approximately five minutes later, the live feed was cut off, leaving the screen blank and dark.

"What's going on..."

"I thought I just saw..."

Soft murmurs started to spread through the cafeteria. Everyone hesitated to raise their heads openly, but even so, Chu Li sensed numerous pairs of eyes watching him from all directions.

Everyone had seen it.

Bai Xian had jumped off the viewing platform.

How could this be... Just moments ago, she was still waving at Jing Baiyuan.

Chu Li's face suddenly paled.

Yes, why would she wave at Jing Baiyuan? How could she have known that on this side of the camera was her son? She must have found out something... Chu Li looked at Jing Baiyuan again, only to see the light in his eyes completely extinguished. His emerald green eyes had never been so calm and lifeless.

He sat on the stool, silently staring at the black screen, radiating an icy aura. In that instant, Jing Baiyuan seemed to have transformed into a cold, hard statue.

Chu Li was terrified. He reached out to grab Jing Baiyuan's hand and whispered, "Maybe it was just an accident. There were so many people there, they will definitely save her..."

Jing Baiyuan wrapped his arm around him, his rough and broad palm resting on the back of Chu Li's head as he pressed him closer.

Chu Li's face buried itself into Jing Baiyuan's chest, leaving him utterly stunned.

"Yuanting?"

Jing Baiyuan had been silent for a long time. Just as Chu Li's back started to ache from leaning against him, he softly said, "She did it on purpose. She has already regained her strength."

Chu Li: "…"

"She won't let them save her. That's what she wants."

Lancelot had deliberately arranged this grand funeral to test Jing Baiyuan with Bai Xian. Every scene at the ceremony whispered to him: No matter how much you defy the Empire, your mother is still in my hands. If you dare to act rashly, you'll never see her alive again.

Jing Baiyuan said calmly, "It was my fault. I didn't manage to bring her out."

Despite his tranquility, Chu Li suddenly asked, "Did you cry?"

Jing Baiyuan didn't respond, causing Chu Li to grow anxious. "Let me see you."

In the next moment, Chu Li found himself enfolded in Jing Baiyuan's embrace.

"Don't move, baby. Don't move... Let me hold you for a while, just a little while."

—

Many days later, Chu Li could still vividly recall the tone of Jing Baiyuan's voice when he spoke those words.

It was lower than usual, with an unsteady vibrato and a slight tremble.

He hadn't lost control and cried out in grief, nor did he utter a single word about his pain. Yet, those words were like a chisel that ruthlessly carved into Chu Li's heart.

Even after so many days had passed, the memory still stirred up a painful ache within him.

However, Jing Baiyuan didn't have much time to collect himself. The day after Bai Xian's passing, Blue Stripe Star announced that the military command would be stripped from him. He was no longer an imperial general but a traitor.

Lancelot appointed a new general to take Jing Baiyuan's place, who, naturally, was denied access to the expeditionary force's defensive line.

This solidified his status as a rebel.

Jing Baiyuan wouldn't willingly give up his position as a general; he had never even considered it. Lancelot... No, to be precise, he should now be referred to as Augustus.

Twenty-two years ago, Augustus had been responsible for his father's death, and now, he had driven his mother to her demise.

Augustus was his enemy.

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Ever since Lanwen Star completely severed ties with Lu Gang, Chu Li hadn't laid eyes on Jing Baiyuan Ting again.

Back when they were busy, they could still make phone calls or exchange messages to communicate. But this time, Jing Baiyuan was once again in a state where he couldn't respond to messages.

He was somewhat concerned. During lunch that day, while he was eating in the canteen, he saw Ya Lan stroll past the corridor. He hurriedly chased after her to inquire about Jing Baiyuan's condition.

Ya Lan looked quite conflicted as he pulled him aside and whispered, "Blue Stripe Star has declared war on us. The admiral is currently at the frontlines. To prevent infiltration by enemy hackers, all communication is being conducted through the military's internal system. There's no way to contact the outside world."

Chu Li had long anticipated this outcome, yet he couldn't help feeling a tinge of disappointment.

Ya Lan continued, "However, the Lu Gang base is situated at the very heart of the expeditionary force's operations, so there's no need to worry about the war encroaching upon us here."

"I'm not worried about that." Jing Baiyuan's departure was hasty, leaving no time for explanations. As a result, Chu Li had been left with days of unexplained absence.

He is going to war, aware of his exceptional prowess, and Chu Li would undoubtedly be worried.

Last time, he was told not to hide anything from him... Well, this wasn't exactly hiding either.

Chu Li gave Ya Lan a small smile but didn't say anything.

He was feeling uneasy, and before he could even reach evening, he received a video message from Jing Baiyuan Ting.

After connecting, Jing Baiyuan Ting sat at a command desk, similar to the one in the base's command center, yet with a distinct difference. The monotonous wall behind him had been replaced by a full-length glass window, offering a view of the vast expanse of space outside, with warships occasionally flying by.

Dressed in a deep green military uniform, Jing Baiyuan Ting wore a familiar new badge on his shoulder, sitting upright with a poised demeanor.

Chu Li immediately noticed that he was different from usual, more restrained in his emotions, with a sharper aura, though his gaze remained warm and tranquil when looking at Chu Li.

Chu Li's earlier discontent vanished instantly, and his tone softened as he asked, "What's up? Is there something you need?"

Jing Baiyuan Ting replied, "I just wanted to see you. Go about your business, don't mind me."

"Alright." Chu Li set his personal terminal to follow mode and started cooking in the kitchen.

True to his word, Jing Baiyuan Ting simply watched him. It wasn't until Chu Li finished cooking and eating that he spoke again, "There's something I'd like to discuss with you."

"Hmm? Go on," Chu Li said, carrying his used bowl back to the kitchen and washing it while casually conversing with Jing Baiyuan Ting, as if he were physically present.

In recent days, Jing Baiyuanting had been restless. He dared not show it in front of others, but every night when he closed his eyes, the image of Bai Xian leaping from the platform haunted him.

As expected, shortly after the funeral, the empire announced Bai Xian's death and posthumously honored him. This only added to Jing Baiyuanting's disgust.

Lancelot could no longer tolerate him, so it was only a matter of time before he left the empire. He had witnessed his father being hunted down by unknown assailants, his name erased after death, and even his wife forced into remarriage. From that moment on, he understood that without power, one was nothing more than a helpless piece of meat waiting to be slaughtered.

The General's position given to him by his mentor was actually a means to protect his life. As long as he remained in that role, Lancelot couldn't harm him.

But perhaps his mentor didn't anticipate that his aspirations went beyond mere survival.

With this thought, Jing Baiyuanting slightly lowered his eyebrows... Chu Li likely hadn't foreseen that not only did Lancelot wish for his death, but he also yearned for Lancelot's demise.

He wasn't the rigid General in Chu Li's mind; he had his ambitions and desires.

Chu Li waited for Jing Baiyuanting to speak, but after a while, the man on the video call grew increasingly quiet, his gaze unwaveringly fixed on him.

If not for seeing his eyes still open, Chu Li would have thought he had fallen asleep.

Putting away the clean dishes, he finally found the chance to look back at the screen and ask, "What do you want to discuss with me?"

"Chu Li," Jing Baiyuan finally spoke, but not about the matter they initially intended to discuss. Instead, he asked, "What would you do if I'm not what you imagine me to be?"

"Hmm?" Chu Li tilted his head, "What do you mean by different? Are you planning to mark another Omega?"

Jing Baiyuan was taken aback. He quickly snapped out of his aloof state and replied, flustered and somewhat bewildered, "How could that be... Why would you think that?"

Chu Li pretended to be relieved and said, "What else could I think? You suddenly became so serious, I thought you were going to break up with me, and I had already imagined which hospital I should go to remove the mark!"

Jing Baiyuan: "..."

Why was his Omega constantly thinking about going to the hospital to have his glands cleansed?

Jing Baiyuan could only shake off those fanciful thoughts and clarify to Chu Li earnestly, "No, it has nothing to do with this."

"Currently, Luguang has become an enemy of the Empire. I might be engaged in prolonged conflict with them. Though Bai Xian met her end on Bluemark Star, I still wish to bring her back. This war might not conclude anytime soon."

Chu Li asked, "Do you plan on capturing Bluemoon Star as well?"

Jing Baiyuan paused slightly, not expecting that Chu Li would be more straightforward than him in this matter.

He nodded gently. "I'm not denying that possibility."

He didn't want to conquer Blue Stripe Star nor disrupt anyone's peaceful life.

All he wanted was to retrieve his mother and have her buried beside his father.

But he would never give up the territory of the Expeditionary Force without a fight.

There were too many people in this world who wished him and his family dead. To protect himself, those around him, and Chu Li, he had to seize control of the Expeditionary Force.

He and the Expeditionary Force were inseparable.

Chu Li had already reached the living room. He sat on the sofa as Little Key climbed into his arms. As he stroked the cat, he said with a smile, "I don't particularly like my gender. Do you know why?"

Jing Baiyuan Yuanting straightened his posture. "Why?"

"Because Omegas in this world are so weak. Most of the time, they can only survive by relying on others. I don't dislike myself or my gender, nor do I hate other Omegas. I just detest this way of life that depends on others, whether it's me or someone else... It's unbearable."

"One must take control of their own destiny. No matter how adorable a pet is, it's still just a pet. Jing Baiyuan Yuanting, here's a harsh reality: even if you turn into a cat, you and Little Key will still be different."

"I have no desire to be anyone's pet or possession either. That's why I've also defied fate and struggled in my own way. It's the same for you. To protect those around you, you need to become stronger."

"If you ask me for my answer, all I can tell you is…" Chu Li straightened his posture and looked intently at Jing Baiyuanting. "I support you."

"Since you're striving to protect someone who's me, I'll back you up no matter what you do."

After saying that, Chu Li realized he had been too serious and smiled at him. "So, go ahead and do it, anything you want."

Jing Baiyuanting gazed deeply into Chu Li's eyes and, after a moment, said, "Little Li, I love you."

Chu Li was slightly taken aback but replied, "I love you too."

Jing Baiyuanting continued, "Come to my side. Both the expeditionary force and I need you."

Only then did Chu Li break into a genuine smile. "Alright then."

---

Since the decision had been made to leave, Little Key needed someone to take care of it. Chu Li brought it back to the base. Hong Feng was in logistics and usually didn't participate in battles, so he could stay behind to look after Little Key.

Placing the tiny key on the ground in the base, Chu Li suddenly recalled his previous conversation with Jing Baiyuan.

He stroked the key's head gently. "Do you want freedom? To transform from a little pet into a free little cat?"

The key was unable to comprehend his words and looked up at him, meowing in response.

"But the price of freedom is high. You'll face many dangers, no one will buy you delicious food or provide a soft bed for you. Your life might become much worse than it is now. Even so, do you still desire freedom?"

The kitten couldn't grasp such profound words. It sensed the biped's melancholic mood and circled around Chu Li, rubbing against his ankle softly.

Normally, the biped would have already reached out to pet it by now, but this time, he didn't move.

The little key wasn't pleased. It stood up, placing its front paws on Chu Li's knees and rubbed its forehead against his fingers.

Chu Li chuckled, reaching out to stroke its chin.

The key promptly lifted its chin, closing its eyes blissfully.

Chu Li laughed.

A kitten would never ponder the relationship between being a pet and having freedom; they might not even realize they were pets. Perhaps in their hearts, it was the two-legged creatures who were the pets, wasn't it? After all, humans were prone to overthinking, often getting stuck in melancholy, only brightening up with the affectionate nudges of their feline companions.

Chu Li bent down to kiss the little key, whispering gently, "I love him very much, and I love you too. Both of you are my family."

---

After settling Little Key, Chu Li joined the other military medical personnel on their journey to the front lines.

He could understand Jing Baiyuan's concerns deep down.

This was an era of rapid technological advancement, where people had access to abundant resources. Even if their home planet's resources dwindled, they could venture to other star systems in search of more.

Thus, lives were prosperous and comfortable. Robots and AI took on most dangerous and laborious tasks, allowing humans to live with ease, doing minimal work to acquire ample resources.

Everyone's life was peaceful and happy—albeit with varying degrees—yet satisfactory for the majority. For the newly conquered planet with its blue blood crystal mines, their lives would temporarily improve under the Empire's intervention.

In such a contented and blissful world, initiating war would undoubtedly make one a sinner in the eyes of the entire universe. He wanted to protect his family but also didn't wish to endanger the brothers in the expeditionary force.

For where there is war, there are bound to be casualties.

He was concerned that his choice might disrupt the peaceful lives of the majority.

Yet, Chu Li felt that there was no need for such concern, for many matters were not within his sole discretion.

He desired to coexist peacefully with Lancelot, but it was not a given that Lancelot would reciprocate the sentiment. Had it not been for the provocative funeral, and had Bai Xian not realized Lancelot's intention to use her as leverage against Jing Baiyuan... the war would have never transpired.

One often tends to view matters solely from one's own perspective.

Thoughts overly pondered solve no issues, only breeding more distress.

The author says:

He didn't die.

As for why, the answer is simply because I didn't wish to deliver a tragic ending, hence he didn't perish.

How kind-hearted I truly am.