Chapter 55

Chapter 55

Pure mental energy surged like an immense tidal wave, crashing relentlessly against the barrier outside the isolation chamber in unceasing waves.

The incredibly sturdy shield, capable of withstanding even devastating weaponry, had shown signs of instability mid-process and barely managed to hold on until the end—

"Crack, crack, crack, crack..."

Clear sounds of shattering echoed in every examiner's ears, akin to the noose tightening around their necks, making them widen their eyes in horror.

"The shield is about to break! Quickly, enter the backup isolation chamber!!"

"Hurry! Forget that machine, just run for your lives!!!"

The director hastily retreated a few steps and shouted at the still-dazed examiners. He instantly unfurled his bone wings and dove into the nearby shelter.

Crack, crack, crack, crack, crack...

In an instant, that tiny crack expanded into a complex web, and the next surge of mental energy reached its peak before crashing down fiercely.

CRASH!!!

The empire's most cutting-edge and advanced shield shattered into millions of shimmering fragments.

The mental energy tsunami was only delayed for an instant before it thunderously cascaded downward.

A doctor who hadn't managed to escape in time collapsed to the ground, his eyes wide as he watched the space-warping mental energy surge right before him, his mind a blank slate.

It's over...

He was undoubtedly going to die today...

But before he could even close his eyes to await death, a sudden warmth engulfed his entire body.

It was as if a vast, gentle spring breeze had brushed against his face, bringing no coldness, pain, fear, or despair.

It seemed to caress every inch of his milky-white soul, granting eternal salvation and healing in that moment. He was so deeply immersed in it that he couldn't regain his senses for a long while.

BOOM!

The mental energy surged past the male, like an unstoppable flood, gradually engulfing the vast medical zone. It even continued to expand beyond the boundaries of the district.

"Quickly, activate a new protective shield! We can't let it spread any further!"

"What is this sensation?!"

"...Ah, so soothing... I feel like I could just lie down and sleep forever..."

"No! The hospital's shields are useless now. We need to contact the administrator of the second district! Have them coordinate with the first and third districts to activate their shields!"

"What's going on with this mental energy... Wait, has Kabevy's mental turmoil subsided?!"

"Beep, beep, beep, beep - Warning! Exceeding maximum threshold! Warning! The value..."

This surge of mental energy had clearly caused widespread chaos, but due to its lack of destructive power and its miraculous healing effect, the situation was barely manageable.

As if sensing the panic, the mental energy suddenly ceased its expansion. It was like a fluffy puppy that had been running halfway, now calmly wagging its tail and lying down, no longer extending outward.

The director, who had been at the forefront, holding his instruments under pressure, saw his solemn expression turn into a stunned one. He muttered in disbelief.

"Stop... It's stopped?"

With the threat eliminated, the frenzied machine, which had been oscillating wildly, finally gave in with a loud bang, its screen shattering, filling the air with a burnt smell.

The absurd stillness on the screen persisted for a moment before a hesitant inspector stepped forward to examine the male insect's test results, exclaiming in shock, "These readings?!"

The other insects also realized what was happening and righted the tilted testing equipment, voices filled with astonishment—

"It's way beyond the A level!"

"No, wait, this machine is only designed to measure up to fifty times an A-level mental power, yet it's overloaded?!"

"This is the limit of the testing device, but not... the limit of this male insect..."

They exchanged glances, a preposterous yet undeniable thought forming in their minds. However, they were too afraid to voice it out loud.

Until the director, his voice hoarse, ordered, "Fetch the S-level testing apparatus."

...

Originally, every contingency had been accounted for; not only was he prepared for a D-class male insectoid, but he would have even been capable of handling a secondary differentiation of an A-class male insectoid with ease.

Yet, who could have foreseen such chaos? In the face of absolute power, all preparations seemed as fragile as tissue paper, utterly useless.

That overwhelming mental energy, though it remained still in the Second District, hadn't withdrawn. The intended secrecy was now exposed on all sides.

A covert communication slipped through the chaos unnoticed.

In the Duke's Mansion's rear garden.

A finger nonchalantly toyed with a delicate petal, mercilessly crushing it until it bled crimson juice.

A meticulously cultivated, vibrant rose was instantly ravaged into pieces.

Cano glanced at the dirt on his fingertip, tsking softly. He picked up a pair of scissors nearby and severed the rose in two, letting it fall onto a pair of prostrated hands.

"Take him down. After the whipping, he'll fast for three days."

The slightly trembling sub-female pressed her forehead to the ground. As the guards pulled her away by her arms, she remained silent throughout, as if accustomed to enduring such treatment.

"Beep."

The light computer emitted a soft sound. Jarno leaned back in his intricately woven rocking chair, dangling his calves as he leisurely swayed, ignoring the new message.

After a long while, he lazily activated his light computer.

The message was brief, but the name mentioned caused his expression to freeze, his eyes gradually darkening.

"Yer... El."

"Secondary differentiation... Super A-class male drone?"

He enunciated each word slowly, almost grinding them between his teeth.

"Why is this male drone haunting me? He's merely a lowly piece of trash picked up from the battlefield."

Recalling the explosive news from three days ago, Jarno's face twisted momentarily.

It had happened precisely on the day of his return. The crown prince, who had been biding his time, had started his move, disrupting the thriving underground industry. Now, they found themselves in a predicament.

And this was merely the power of the First Prince's faction. If that fellow fully recovers...

Everything that had secretly grown in the shadows after confirming "Admiral Monte's" death would be uprooted without mercy.

An indescribable fear lingered in his heart, making him unusually irritable and short-tempered these few days.

"Why... Why did he insist on crawling out of hell after dying gloriously? Die, die, die, die..."

Cano paced nervously back and forth, nibbling on his nails rather neurotically. But at a certain moment, something clicked in his mind, causing him to abruptly halt.

"Hold on... Why did these two incidents occur so closely together?"

A realization dawned upon him, and he wore an expression of disbelief mixed with sudden understanding. Frantically, he retrieved his optical brain and contacted the insectoid who had been in charge of that matter years ago.

The news that followed extinguished the last spark of hope within him.

—"Neo has been convicted, and all his assets have been seized and liquidated."

Swift and ruthless, leaving no room for any reaction – it was entirely that guy's style. Clearly, it was done for that male insectoid named Yale.

How could they possibly know each other?! What sort of relationship do they have... Could it be related to the current situation?

Realizing that the situation was spiraling out of control, Kanuo finally lost his patience and strode into the mansion, "Femfather!"

In the hospital, meanwhile.

The device hidden away in a storage room was carefully extracted. A thick layer of dust coated it, giving it an ancient, nostalgic appearance, as if it had been untouched for a century.

It had been an eternity since it was last used. The insectoids had long accepted the fact that no S-Class male had emerged in ages.

The hospital director, barely able to contain his excitement, gently swept away the dust and inserted new energy sources.

Taking a deep breath, he pressed the activation button.

"Beep! Energy loading in progress..."

"Loading complete! Level detection commencing... Successful capture of target's mental energy! Expanding information network..."

Under the anxious and excited gazes of the onlookers, the numbers on the device's screen fluctuated rapidly, surpassing the A-Level!

The momentum continued to surge upward, relentlessly drawing near the top red line.

"Soon, soon, almost there… We're almost there!"

"Keep rising, ahh ahh ahh ooh ooh eeh eeh!!"

"Beep—"

The skyrocketing numbers finally slowed their pace and eventually froze, with a row of green lights illuminating on the device, revealing the final test result.

"Test result: S-Rank."

"Congratulations on the birth of another S-Rank Sovereign!"

The mechanical voice announced the outcome without any inflection, even offering congratulations. However, the worm, who had been ecstatic just moments ago, was now unprecedentedly still and transfixed.

For a full ten minutes, no worm spoke a word.

But then, a sudden, deafening scream and cheer erupted, spreading from one floor to another, from one building to the next, as if contagious. It burst forth in an incredibly enthusiastic and excited uproar.

—So potent it seemed to rattle the vast expanse of the celestial dome above.

At 14:48:56 on January 1st, in the year 9038 of the Stellar Calendar, after six long centuries, a new S-Rank Male Bug Sovereign was born among the insectoid race.

And at this very moment, they bore witness to history.

*

"Beep... Beep... Beep..."

A soft sound echoed overhead, and Yale opened his eyes amidst a warm embrace.

Before him was a distorted and blurry scene. Unconsciously, he opened his mouth, only to release a string of bubbles.

Yale: "?"

He blinked and realized that he was lying within a pod.

In the dimness above him, a few red lights flickered, and the gentle waves inside the pod caressed his entire body, inducing a sense of both relaxation and numbness.

As if a trigger had been activated, a team of doctors rushed into the room. With practiced efficiency, they operated for a while, causing the liquid to recede significantly. The door in front of him slowly opened.

Yale groggily sat up, while the lead doctor appeared extremely nervous, bending down to whisper his inquiry.

"Your Highness, how do you feel now?"

Your Highness? What Your Highness?

With both his body and mind in unprecedented comfort, Yale pinched his forehead, fully awakening from his daze.

He scanned the room, finding it strangely familiar yet distinctly foreign. Eventually, his gaze fell on the emblem on the doctor's chest.

Second District Central Hospital.

"Head immediately to... the main planet... Second District Hospital... secondary differentiation... Alpha Ruler, do you know who I am?"

In that instant, the vague and scattered voices and fragments of memory connected into a coherent thread in his mind.

Yale's pupils constricted as he instantly grasped his current situation.

"Are you alright? Do you feel any discomfort?"

The male insect before him remained silent for a long while, causing Bird's anxiety to escalate.

All the readings were within normal parameters, but there was no guarantee that something might have been overlooked. Ultimately, the male insect's judgment was the most reliable.

"No... I'm doing fine," Yale finally replied, regaining his composure. After a moment of hesitation, he added, "Where's Xi Ze?"

"Xi Ze?" Bird repeated the name, a puzzled look appearing on his face. "Who is this insect to you? We haven't encountered him before."

As if fearing Bird's displeasure, the doctor quickly continued, "But our hospital is equipped with the most advanced identification and search system. If Your Excellency needs it, we can immediately help you locate him."

It shouldn't be the case that they hadn't met before.

Yet, after some contemplation, Yale didn't press the matter further and simply shook his head.

"No need."

Inside that pod must have been the finest grade of recuperative fluid, accompanied by special garments made from unique materials, designed to keep one dry and protect the skin while submerged in the liquid. Still, Yale couldn't help feeling somewhat sticky.

After freshening up and changing into new clothes, he was ushered into an astonishingly large VIP ward.

The room was bright and clean, exuding subtle opulence. One could almost feel their breath burning money just by staying inside.

"S-Class?"

Yale doubted his ears. "Are you sure?"

"It's... It's true!"

Bird's words stumbled due to nervousness. Normally so composed even in the face of grandeur, he found himself unable to articulate properly at this moment.

"You are the only S-Class Esteemed of the Bug Tribe!"

However, the male before him, upon confirmation, didn't exhibit any signs of joy but rather an air of wistfulness.

Yale lowered his gaze, lost in thought for a moment, then lifted his eyes, curling his lips into a smile. "I see."

Actually, he didn't view this as a fortunate turn of events.

Back when he was rescued from the battlefield and merely showed potential to be an A-class, the doors of his hospital room were practically broken down by scheming nobles, leaving him no peace at all.

The only S-class...

He secretly sighed, anticipating future troubles.

"Is there anything else that needs checking? I'm feeling a bit tired."

Bird was originally lost in the male insect's laughter. Upon hearing this, he promptly closed the medical file in his hands and bowed respectfully.

"That's all, Your Majesty. Rest well and feel free to ring the bedside bell whenever you need me!"

He exited the hospital room with gentle steps, closing the door softly behind him, and didn't pause until he was well clear of the corridor.

Unable to contain his excitement, he threw a few playful punches into the air, then sprinted and leaped across the open space with vigor. In a burst of enthusiasm, he even kissed the data in his hands repeatedly.

Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah!!

It's the invaluable data of the esteemed S-class male drone! We actually obtained it!!! I strongly recommend that the Dean treat it as the treasure of the academy!!!

Lord Yale is really... so incredible, oh my goodness!! An eternal fan, an eternal supporter!!

The examination just now was very tedious. Throughout the process, Bird was terrified that the male drone might lose patience and casually select a few females for punishment, or simply walk away.

But until the end of the examination, although the male drone remained indifferent, he had no further demands. He cooperated with all the procedures, and even...

He even said 'thank you' with a smile on his face, oh my god!!

Bird was filled with astonishment but managed to maintain a respectful expression. It wasn't until now that he could finally let out the excitement pent up inside.

Several passing nurses gave him curious glances before he reluctantly stopped his enthusiastic reactions, though his chuckling face couldn't be contained.

"I can't dawdle. I need to hurry and send the information to the Dean and the Admiral."

...

Next to the bed, a window overlooked a clear blue sky outside. Below was a small garden where a few younglings were playing, creating a lively and vibrant scene.

Yale propped his cheek in his hand, idly gazing outside.

From the doctor's response earlier, he had learned that it had been well over half a month since he had survived his second differentiation. During that time, he had been in a coma in the hospital, recuperating both his injured body and mental strength.

Back then, with the chaos of the insects, he hadn't inquired too much, but this information was essentially adequate.

The reason for his premature second differentiation, naturally, was linked to those nightmare-like memories.

Tangyuan... 015...

Lost in thought for a moment, Yale's eyes involuntarily drifted down to his left hand resting on the blanket, a hint of sorrow flickering across his face.

At this moment, he truly yearned to see Xi Ze.

During his second differentiation, he had been delirious, and despite the intimate encounter with the male insect, they hadn't had the chance for a proper conversation. Upon waking up from a long slumber, the male insect was still not by his side.

"Beep beep."

His optical computer sounded a message notification, abruptly pulling Yale back to reality. He turned his head towards the bedside table.

Xi Ze.

His gaze was fixed on the flickering red light, his mind filled with the name of the male omega.

After buying Xi Ze a light brain, he had immediately exchanged communication methods with the omega and occasionally exchanged messages.

Yale's Adam's apple moved slightly. He took a deep breath to steady himself before picking up the device and activating it.

"Adelaide: ? Where's your omega?"

"Buda: Sir? The battles have been intense lately. Have you found a safe place to hide? Please take care!"

"Rami: It's so chaotic lately!! Sir, please stay at home and don't go out. Do you have enough supplies? Do you need any help?"

"Adelaide: I heard that Altar has been attacked and turned into a battlefield. Are you alright?? If you need assistance, share your location with me, and I'll come to get you."

"Elaine: Sir?! How are you now, are you still in Altar?! Would you like to temporarily seek refuge in the hospital's bomb shelter?!"

"...”

It wasn't Xi Ze.

A flicker of disappointment involuntarily escaped Yale's eyes, but he quickly curved his lips, replying to each and every message of concern from all directions.

He had to admit that these familiar messages eased the tension in his shoulders, quietly soothing the anxiety of being in an unfamiliar place.

After finally responding to all the messages, he switched to his chat with Xi Ze.

The last message was from a month ago, when Xi Ze had asked him to buy some flour and promised to make him steamed dumplings… According to his descriptions, the male insect had been trying to recreate many of the dishes Yale used to enjoy.

However, after a moment of hesitation, Yale closed his optical brain.

He had no idea what situation Xi Ze was in now, and sending a message might do more harm than good. They were bound to meet eventually, so it wouldn't hurt to wait a little longer.

But why did that doctor say they had never seen Xi Ze?

That didn't make any sense.

Yet, another possibility flashed across his mind like a bolt of lightning. Before he could ponder further, there came a gentle knock on the door of his hospital room.

"Your Highness? May I come in?"

A voice, somewhat familiar.

Yale concealed the contemplation in his eyes and hid his light computer under the covers. "Enter."

The doorknob turned, and a black leather boot stepped into the hospital room, followed by a figure in crisp military attire.

Soon, a face with distinct features, strangely recognizable, came into view.

"It's been a long time, Your Highness."

Bai Lang closed the door behind him, strode to the bedside, and saluted with a smile. "You're finally awake. Are you feeling any discomfort?"

"A long time no see...?"

Yale gazed at him, seeking clarification. "Have we met before?"

"You might have forgotten. Previously, when the space pirates attacked Aital Star, the military went to rescue. In that ambulance..."

Yale pondered for a moment, his expression slightly dazed, "Oh, I remember. My apologies."

Bai Lang cleared his throat gently, then introduced himself after the reminder, "It's my fault for not properly introducing myself before."

"I am Bai Lang. By rank, I'm a Vice Admiral, and I've served as an Adjutant to the Admiral for decades. I can somewhat shamelessly claim to be the Admiral's trusted aide. You can just call me by my name."

"Anyway, congratulations on your ascension to the S-Class, Your Excellency!"

Yale first expressed his thanks, then hesitantly asked, "The Admiral you mentioned is...?"

Who... Wait...

The smile on Bai Lang's face froze almost instantly, and his bared teeth slowly retreated.

Wait, wait... What was going on here? !

Had the Admiral not informed the male partner of his identity? He had thought it was no longer a secret!

This was bad.

It was somewhat honest for the Admiral to admit it himself, but how was it supposed to be when someone unrelated like him brought it up? !

The air seemed to freeze for a moment. In the next second, a swift black figure dashed to the counter opposite the bed and picked up a black remote control.

Snap!

A clear and enormous projection materialized in mid-air, facing the male insect on the bed. Bai Lang suspected that he had used the thickest skin of his life to make the most awkward topic switch.

"It must be boring in here, Your Majesty! You can watch the latest movie to pass the time... Hahaha... What genre do you like, hahaha..."

"..."

The military female's reaction confirmed his speculation.

But seeing Assistant Bai's profuse sweating as he desperately tried to change the subject, Yale sighed and didn't push the issue further. He lifted his gaze to look at the screen, cooperating with Bai's attempt to move on.

The previous movie on the projection had just ended, switching to a news broadcast. Instantly, a cacophony of voices filled the entire room, with chaotic questions intertwined with the sounds of camera shutters and buzzing microphones.

".... Could you give us an account of what happened? After the Lemir Battle, what exactly did you..."

"In the aftermath of your sacrifice, the Empire has bestowed upon you the title of Honorary Marshal. Admiral Anto has also taken your place. May I ask what your current role is...?"

"...Admiral Monte, why were you previously absent from media appearances? What prompted your sudden return and decision to face the public now?"

"Admiral!"

"Admiral Monte!"

Bai Lang's expression froze. He suddenly remembered that today was the day of the press conference. Thus, even if the Admiral knew about the male's awakening, he wouldn't have been able to return in time.

He stiffly turned his head, hearing the crisp sound of his neck cracking. Standing at the center of the conference, wasn't that their Admiral?

The male's expression on the screen gradually revealed understanding, eventually turning into a realization that left Bai Lang's heart numb.

"Hilzer Monte."

Yale gazed at the military female on the screen, his eyes then shifting to the name card standing upright on the table in front of him. He softly read out the name written there.

Lowering his gaze, he smiled faintly, his expression indifferent.

"…So it turns out he doesn't go by Xi Ze."

Snap.

Bai Lang turned to stone completely.

…Huh??

Huh??????

What's going on?!! What the hell is happening????!!!!

Even though he used a pseudonym to avoid being recognized, logically, he could understand it. But being unexpectedly exposed in this situation was incredibly awkward—ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!

Now, it was truly, utterly, and completely over.

Author's Note:

Finally, the mask has fallen off, haha! It's a bit of a sour yet exhilarating feeling, hehe.

The general had intended to reveal this personally to Yeye, but was caught off guard when his true identity was unexpectedly exposed. The aide-de-camp was utterly shocked, transforming into a screaming chicken (!!!).

Who would comfort Assistant Bai, he's about to break down (sob sob sob)?

ps: A small setting, Hilzer and Xi Ze, in fact, only the word Ze has the same pronunciation, Xi and Xi are different in the Zerg language, it is difficult to associate them together (spreading hands)