Chapter 63

Chapter 63

The royal family's announcement that they would confer Admiral Monte, upon his return, with the prestigious title of Honorary Marshal sparked an immediate uproar in public discourse.

Regardless of the credibility of this military rank, the royal family has, at the very least, acknowledged the existence of the Admiral.

After a long period of observation, the various powers knew that in the first confrontation after the return, it was Xilze Monte who had the upper hand.

Yale was having breakfast when he received the message, his eyebrows gradually raising as Bai Lang's report unfolded.

And it took only a few seconds for that astonishment to transform into repressed excitement.

"…Alright, I understand."

By the time Xi Ze finally ended the communication, he promptly wrapped his arms tightly around the male insect, "You've been appointed as a Marshal! Congratulations!"

Xi Ze hurriedly caught the male insect, his own joy ignited by the other's happiness, causing him to smile as well.

His eyes shimmered with delight as he exerted more effort in his embrace, lifting Yale slightly. He tilted his head to meet the affectionate kisses filled with joy.

The recent hustle and bustle had finally yielded a significant victory, filling Yale with pride and joy for his mate. He hugged the male tightly, nuzzling against him affectionately.

He deliberately overlooked the word "honorary" and dismissed any provisional or alternative titles as irrelevant. It wasn't carelessness, but rather a near-blind faith in Xi Ze's unwavering ability to become the official Marshal – a certainty beyond doubt.

Regaining his composure, Yale felt a little embarrassed and quickly disentangled himself from his mate.

Clearing his throat, his eyes still shone with anticipation as he asked, "Will there be a coronation ceremony? I'd like to attend."

"Yes, we'll depart together when the time comes," replied Xi Ze with a smile, leading the male back to the dining table. "Let's continue with breakfast; you've only had a couple of bites."

Two days later.

Early in the morning, a specialized makeup and styling team knocked on the door of the villa, followed closely by Bai Lang who delivered a custom-made military uniform, filling the living room to capacity.

Yale had woken up early, but the bed beside him was already cold. Only after asking 015 did he learn that the makeup team had arrived. After freshening up, he hurried down to the living room.

"…It's almost there. Try on the military cap…"

A soft voice echoed from ahead. Yale descended from his aircraft and pushed open the half-closed door to the living room, his pupils constricting as he took in the scene inside.

Xi Ze stood at the center of the bright lights, receiving the military cap from an insectoid's hand and placing it atop his head, clearly dressed in full attire.

The military uniform was fresher and more crisp than regular uniforms, with a more intricate and appealing design. The stark contrast between the pure black fabric and shimmering golden accents was breathtaking.

The inner collar buttons were fastened all the way up to the top, below which a row of intricately designed golden buttons ran down. A golden sash, adorned with patterns, was pulled taut around his waist, accentuating his slender figure.

Three barley-shaped straps extended from beneath the pristine shoulder badges, two looping around to connect under the collar, while the third hung naturally down his back, swaying slightly with each military gesture.

As Xi Ze lowered his hands, the faint shadow cast by the military cap concealed part of his brows and eyes, lending a mysterious and cold air to his expression. However, it only served to amplify his imposing and powerful demeanor.

But those icy golden orbs softened marginally upon catching sight of Yale, and the straight line of his lips curled upward.

"Lord Male?"

The designer, who was assisting him with the sash, inadvertently witnessed this transformation and was subtly surprised. Sensing the change, they tactfully stepped back, creating some space.

Yale, still in a daze, quickly approached and whispered, "Up so early? What time are we leaving?"

With the presence of the external insects and the concern of messing up the attire of the female insect, he held back and stopped a meter away. However, Xi Ze reached out to draw him close.

"There's no rush. We have two hours. It's just a habit to prepare early."

There were still faint blush marks on the male insect's face from sleep. He gently rubbed them with the pads of his fingers, but it didn't make much difference. They had indulged in their desires until the middle of the night, but fortunately, they slept soundly enough to avoid dark circles.

"Hungry? Breakfast is on the table."

"Your gown is ready as well. After breakfast, you can change and apply some light makeup. That should be about right for departure."

Yale looked surprised, pointing at himself questioningly.

"Me? But shouldn't we still be hidden from discovery? Wearing a gown seems unnecessary if I'm just watching from backstage."

"Certainly necessary. Keeping the news under wraps doesn't mean you can't be seen. At this ceremony, you'll be attending with Bai Lang. It's a perfect opportunity to create some buzz through the media..."

So there was another plan in motion. Yale listened attentively, nodding occasionally to show his understanding.

During this period, the Queen had specifically enlightened him on numerous matters, ranging from the power distribution within the Empire to the intricate web of relationships among the nobles. Which insects could be trusted, and which ones needed to be cautiously kept at a distance... It was complicated, but not too difficult to remember.

The designer, standing in the background, listened with a mixture of fear and awe.

He was a renowned designer responsible for the Admiral's costumes, occasionally taking on commissions from nobles, dressing both male and female insects. However, he had never witnessed a military female insect interact with a dominant male in such a manner.

No need to kneel in apology, no fear of punishment leading to cautious speech – their communication and interaction were ordinary and natural, with affectionate gestures casually exchanged, even hints of tutoring present.

This was... too miraculous, wasn't it?

Initially, he had been worried that the meticulously designed military uniform would be ruined by the sudden appearance of the Admiral's dominant male upon their return.

After all, dominant males were known for their arrogance and jealousy towards successful female insects. Even if they didn't have malicious intentions, they simply wouldn't care about the state of the female's attire. After serving in the morning, it would undoubtedly get dirty.

But the current situation left him utterly astonished. Having discarded his prejudiced lens towards dominant males, he couldn't help stealing another glance at the Admiral's male...

Goodness gracious, how breathtakingly beautiful!

That face! That figure! Could it truly exist in reality? Ahhh!!

Yale seemed to sense something and glanced over Xi Ze's shoulder. Their eyes met, locking onto a pair of glowing green eyes burning with intensity.

He had seen that look many times on Adelaide's face. It wasn't malicious, but the fervor was so intense that it made Yale's heart skip a beat upon first sight. He turned away coldly.

"I'll go have breakfast first. You carry on."

With time running short, Yale pushed the male insect away and headed for the dining room. Midway, he thought of something and turned back. "Have you eaten?"

Receiving an affirmative answer, he stepped onto his flying fairy and left, clearly in a good mood.

Bai Lang looked from the male insect to the admiral, momentarily at a loss for words.

Xi Ze's expression softened slightly as he signaled the designer to prepare the male insect's attire and accessories. He then warned Bai Lang.

"He doesn't know about the military's dirty dealings. Don't say anything unnecessary."

"Yes, sir!"

Bai Lang stood at attention, adjusting his expression to hide his anger upon learning the news.

...

"You look decent in this... No, no, don't wear that accessory. It's too dull and doesn't suit you at all!"

"Oh, wait! These gowns are hideous. How could I have designed such atrocities? They're an insult to you!"

Yale watched the designer's escalating frenzy, momentarily at a loss for words.

He had already been dressed in multiple outfits, each more intricate and luxurious than the last, seemingly worth a fortune. However, the designer grew increasingly dissatisfied, bordering on manic by the end.

Yale had never been dressed so elaborately before. Gazing at his unfamiliar reflection, he felt a flush of embarrassment.

Maintaining a stern expression, he cleared his throat and said, "It's too extravagant. I think the first white suit was sufficient."

"Too extravagant... A white, white suit... ?!"

Though it seemed inconceivable, the male had spoken, and there was a fiercely loyal military female standing behind him, ready to defend her alpha. Swallowing his frustration, the designer acquiesced.

"Then let me help you change back, and I'll select some accessories for you, milord."

Having finally settled on the styling and chosen the accessories, the designer looked up, inadvertently lost in admiration for a while—

It seemed quite acceptable, actually. This male insectoid had no need to worry about clothing at all. Even a simple burlap sack would look good on him!

The brand new, delicate fabric was virtually flawless, yet it couldn't outshine the natural whiteness of the male's skin. His soft, pitch-black hair was casually tied into a small bun, adding a touch of playfulness and charm.

A shimmering golden chain dangled from his collar down to his chest, swaying gently with his movements. A corner of a deep pink handkerchief peeked out from his pocket, elegantly accentuating the pristine white ensemble.

Despite being an extremely classic style, it didn't appear outdated or mismatched at all. What should have been a low-key and common outfit was transformed into something breathtaking, leaving the insect completely captivated.

He resembled... a glowing elf from another world.

Yale, reflecting upon his image in the mirror, felt inexplicably nervous. He glanced uneasily at the female insectoid beside him.

"Is it alright?"

Xi Ze followed his gaze to the mirror and, hearing his question, wrapped his arms around that slender waist, his voice a low rasp as he chuckled, "…You look great."

He planted a kiss between Yale's brows and added a comment.

"Like a little prince."

And naturally, he was the knight by the prince's side, safeguarding his royal highness with lance and shield, ensuring not a single drop of blood would soil the pristine, soft cloak.

The male insect's reflection in the mirror visibly flushed, the blush spreading from the roots of his ears down to his neck, resembling a vast, breathtaking flush of pink. It was exquisitely lovely.

The round robot butler eagerly poked its head out, receiving a pat on its dome from the female. "It really does, doesn't it, 015?"

"Yes indeed!"

015, who saw itself as the prince's loyal attendant, exclaimed loudly, nodding fervently like a pecking chick.

Yale's face remained warm for quite some time, eventually forcing him to feign nonchalance with a dismissive tut, gently shoving the female to hurry along.

"…No more talking. Hurry up and get out, we're going to be late."

*

The hovercar glided from the villa straight into the military base.

For the investiture ceremony of a military female, it was typically held at the main base, with the monarch personally presiding over the event, bestowing medals and sashes upon the newly honored females. The entire ceremony would be broadcast live across major platforms.

The majority of attendees were military females, with permission to bring subordinates and family members, though the atmosphere was far more formal and less engaging than a noble's ball.

Yale sat in his vehicle, escorted all the way to the venue, surrounded by an armed ring of military females.

"Bai Lang, this way, Your Excellency... This is the exclusive lounge for the General's family. You can observe the ceremony from here."

Bai Lang, assigned with the First Squad, followed closely behind the male, quickly opening the door to the lounge and providing a respectful and concise introduction.

"Team B, stay here. Team A, follow me in."

Half the military females stood guard at the entrance while the rest accompanied Bai Lang into the lounge, standing at attention against the walls with their weapons at the ready for any emergencies.

Yale had maintained a stern and aloof demeanor throughout the journey, only relaxing his shoulders slightly upon entering the lounge.

The lounge was a semi-open box with an excellent view, allowing a clear sight of the central investiture area. It was already equipped with tea and various snacks, awaiting the start of the ceremony.

Taking a seat on the sofa, he looked at Bai Lang, standing like a guardian by its side. "Not sitting?"

"No, Your Excellency. Please rest. The items on the coffee table are prepared by the General for you. Feel free to have some if you get bored."

Bai Lang relaxed marginally but remained vigilant. "There's no need to be so tense, Admiral. This booth is absolutely secure. His arrangements never falter."

The coffee table held tea and snacks on its surface, while several drawers were concealed beneath. Yale opened them one by one.

In the first drawer, a myriad of snacks filled the space.

The second drawer revealed an assortment of holographic movie and game chips.

The third drawer contained electronic research materials, including some rare books not found on the shelves.

And in the fourth drawer, there was only a small, brick-like communication device.

"What's this?"

His eyebrows raised slightly as he picked up the device, sensing that it wasn't a product of the insectoid race's technology.

"This is the latest research outcome from the Empire's Institute. A communication device capable of transmitting information through ninety-nine percent of cosmic radiation and interference. It's condensed from a massive, ground-mounted apparatus into this compact size, ready for mass production. Eventually, it will be integrated into starships or mechas," Bai Lang glanced at it, then ventured a speculative guess with some uncertainty.

"High-intensity jammers are always activated during His Majesty's ceremonies, but you might be able to establish contact with the Admiral through this."

"Is it that impressive?"

Yale flipped the communicator over and noticed a small plaque engraved on the back - "Yale".

So, is this an encrypted communication channel exclusive to him and Xi Ze?

He smiled, gently tapping the small silver plaque with his finger. After a moment of hesitation, he decided not to disturb Xi Ze with the preparations for the investiture ceremony just yet.

The clock struck the appointed hour, and the ceremony commenced as scheduled.

Following the emperor's lengthy motivational address, the venue resonated with rousing military hymns. Yale, who had been lounging on the sofa in boredom, sprang to attention upon sensing Xi Ze's impending entrance.

"Is he coming?"

Taking a few steps forward, he leaned against the glass, observing a squad marching through the formations below. At the forefront was none other than Xi Ze, resplendent in a crisp military dress uniform.

Compared to when he first left, Xi Ze's chest was now adorned with an array of medals, row upon row, so numerous that they seemed to threaten to overflow from his upper body.

They swayed gently with each movement, clinking softly, creating an illusion of a golden armor that symbolized supreme glory and radiance.

Yale recalled the layers of scars on the male drone's body, varying in depth and shade - marks that even the most resilient military drones couldn't erase. They were testament to the drone's countless battles and years of dedication.

Each medal corresponded to numerous healed or scarred wounds, solidified by gallons of blood and tears. It was the ultimate acknowledgment of the military drone's lifetime of achievements.

Yet, those he had protected behind him, the royalty and nobles indulging in hedonism on the home planet, held no regard for such greatness or sacrifice. They were even willing to harm him without hesitation.

Five years.

Years filled with immense pain, enduring endless torture and unbearable humiliation, struggling desperately to survive.

Yale pressed his lips together, his nostrils tingling, but he forcefully suppressed the emotion, focusing intently on the solemn scene below.

Tap, tap, tap...

The hard soles of military boots echoed against the smooth ground, creating a rhythmic sound that lingered in the ears of countless insects, either as their salvation or nightmare.

He watched Xi Ze step forward steadily and resolutely, passing through myriad scrutinizing gazes. Ignoring the deceitful schemes, Xi Ze approached the platform with unwavering determination.

"Imperial Admiral Xierze Monte..."

The silver-haired emperor rose from his chair, lifting his head to gaze at the dazzling military alpha before him. His creased face trembled for a moment, betraying a mix of either nostalgia or fear.

Perhaps feeling the insincerity himself, he ultimately refrained from uttering any hollow words. After a moment of silence, he proceeded with the ritual as expected.

"Bang!"

Continuously leaning in for a closer look, he unknowingly bumped into the glass. Yale rubbed his forehead and changed his angle to continue observing.

He didn't actually know the specifics of what the female insect was doing, but he was acutely aware that Xi Ze was methodically executing his plan, moving steadily towards his predetermined objective.

Stealthy maneuvering, a powerful comeback, seizing power...

He was reclaiming the glory that once illuminated his shoulders, regaining his rightful position and voice, brandishing a cold blade towards those who had inflicted harm or added insult to injury.

- Even back in Etar, he knew that a bird with broken wings, when fallen into the mud, would one day desperately grow new flesh, spreading its wings to soar freely in the sky.

Yale's eyes overflowed with amusement, his facial expression relaxed and joyful, as visible ripples of delight bloomed around him like tiny flowers.

Completely oblivious to the clicking of camera flashes below, some of which had already shifted their focus onto him.

Not all the insects in the venue shared his joy, however.

"What an honorific Admiral, a position that's neither here nor there, with no real power in the military and no designated role. It's clearly meant to embarrass the Generals... Simply ridiculous."

Bai Lang deliberately moved away from the males but couldn't help grumbling under his breath as he passed by fellow officers who wore similar expressions of discontent.

"The Emperor is really getting senile. He comes up with such absurd ideas, but it's undoubtedly that good-for-nothing Second Prince whispering in his ear."

He cursed inwardly, yet he was powerless to do anything at this moment.

"The Third Army and Fourth Army are a bunch of useless drones. They can't even handle mecha combat or close quarters fighting, but they're experts in scheming behind closed doors, playing one trick after another. How disgusting..."

The Empire had been stagnant for years, its old guard stubbornly clinging to tradition and fearing any hint of change. The sudden return of the General was simply too much for them to accept.

If those nobles banded together to ostracize them, even with the General's extraordinary abilities, it would be impossible for them to grow strong enough to defy them in such a short time. At the very least, bloody clashes were inevitable.

Wait...

Bai Lang's brow twitched, and something suddenly came to mind. He swiftly turned his head to look at Yale.

Didn't they have a valuable asset right by their side when it came to leverage and assistance?

An S-Class male insectoid, a rare gem that appeared only once in a thousand years, cherished a hundredfold more than royalty and nobility, an intimidating existence capable of shaking the very foundations of the insectoid race.

The Admiral had protected His Highness so meticulously, coupled with the male insectoid's usual good temperament and humility, never boasting about his rank. This had made them temporarily forget about the powerful weapon standing beside them.

"S-Class male insectoid..."

Bai Lang muttered to himself, contemplating the potential benefits that such a title could bring. His eyes immediately lit up.

Just as he was about to approach Yale, the Admiral's warning echoed in his ear:

"Don't say anything unnecessary."

His movement halted, and he let out a frustrated hiss.

It was clear that the Admiral was reluctant to expose Yale, His Highness, to the dirty politics, but in reality, only Bai Lang could ensure His Highness remained unharmed.

Before that, it was crucial to consolidate power and win over various factions to prevent complete isolation and opposition.

The existence of an S-Class male insect was almost like a stabilizing anchor. If they could fully ally with such a force and utilize them wisely, the balance would undoubtedly tilt in their favor.

"Truly speechless..."

Bai Lang's voice suddenly rose behind him. Yale's sensitive ears twitched, and he snapped back to attention.

He tilted his head to listen to the female's grumbling, but as he did, his brows knitted tighter.

"What are you talking about?"

Bai Lang coughed loudly, ignoring the male's question, and continued in a louder tone.

"Cough! I didn't say anything, right, Kade?"

"I didn't say that this ceremony is a joke, a ploy by the Duke's Mansion and the Second Prince to intimidate the General. Nor did I mention that the so-called Honorary Marshal position is a worthless title without even a chair in the War Bureau or the Senate Hall, let alone any real voting power."

"I certainly didn't say that the Third and Fourth Legions have become breeding grounds for noble scions, filled with all sorts of criminals and schemers who constantly plot with Anto to suppress the General's influence, even considering tampering with military supplies..."

The male behind him had already fully turned his head, staring intently in their direction.

Bai Lang pretended to cough louder, casting a reassuring glance at his visibly anxious colleague.

"Oh dear, the Admiral told me not to say anything unnecessary. I'd better keep quiet then."

All traces of amusement had vanished from Yale's face.

Half of the male's body was illuminated by the bright lights below, casting the other half into shadows. Only his gleaming eyes, like polished jet, stood out, as if he had just awakened from a dream.

So it was like this...?

It meant that it was all a deceit, not an honor for Xi Ze but a profound humiliation and pressure. There was nothing to celebrate at all.

And yet, Yale had foolishly congratulated the male, believing it to be a victory or a commendation... How utterly stupid.

With a cold expression, Yale was lost in thought. It wasn't until he had processed the sudden revelation that he became aware of the sting in his palm.

Looking down, he realized that his grip had been so tight that his nails had left several crimson crescents in the flesh of his palm, resembling tiny, curved moons.

But the pain was sharp yet dull, not matching the injury before his eyes. It took him a long while to realize—

It wasn't his hand that hurt; it was the depths of his left chest, that incredibly tender spot colliding fiercely with his ribs, causing a deafening roar in his eardrums and an unceasing, tearing agony.

During this period, Xi Ze had shared many things with him, covering a wide range of topics, intricate and diverse… almost everything.

Yet, he never mentioned his own struggles or difficulties, nor did he speak of the hardships he faced along the way, or the fact that he was often isolated and pressured.

The female insect's sole purpose in teaching him was to equip him with ample information, to help him see the path ahead, most importantly, to grant him the ability to protect himself.

Even if one day he left, Yale wouldn't be left in a state of confusion, dragged into complex conflicts from which he couldn't extricate himself.

Xi Ze didn't even ask for his allegiance, instead offering all possible choices and paths, allowing him to follow his heart and forge his own way.

How could there be someone so foolish in this world…

Yale drew several deep breaths, barely managing to suppress the sourness and anger, but still felt a lump in his throat, trapped and stifling.

Damn it.

These vermin... they all deserve to die!

His mental landscape seemed to resonate with his emotions, surging with immense spiritual energy that stirred up massive waves, creating chaos and unrest in the sea of consciousness.

Yale's eyelashes fluttered as he followed Bai Lang's subtle explanation, scanning the faces of the insects below before casting a cold glance at the emperor seated above and the second prince.

On the high platform, the emperor of the empire was bestowing an honor medal upon Xi Ze.

Thunderous applause erupted in the venue, wave after wave, though the sincerity of the congratulations remained unknown.

Reaching into the pocket of his suit jacket, Yale clenched the communicator given to him by the female insect, its chilliness snapping him back to reality.

He was already this upset and angry just from learning the truth.

How must Xi Ze feel standing on that stage, facing all that malice and deceit?

Would he feel disgusted and disillusioned, even ashamed of himself?

It wasn't until Xi Ze finished dealing with the media's questions and returned to the car after the event ended that Yale finally regained his composure, mustering a slight smile. "You're back. Are you tired?"

"Master, what's wrong?"

Xi Ze keenly sensed Yale's off mood. Although the male ruler appeared calm on the surface, it was clear that he was seething inside.

"Was the ceremony too dull? Or did someone give you trouble? Tell me, don't bottle up your anger..."

He had soothed his agitated male ruler many times before, almost to the point of expertise. However, this time, he couldn't get a straight answer.

Seeing that he wasn't getting anywhere, Xi Ze furrowed his brows and rolled down the car window to ask Bai Lang, who was accompanying them, "What happened?"

The moment he saw Bai Lang's hesitant expression, Xi Ze realized something, his expression shifting slightly as he hurriedly shut the window with a warning, "I'll deal with you later."

Hiding information about the ceremony could be seen as protection or deception, depending on the perspective. He had promised not to deceive Yale again but was caught red-handed. No wonder the male ruler was so furious.

Taking a chance, Xi Ze gently held Yale's hand. Receiving no rejection, he leaned in and placed a series of gentle kisses on those tightly pursed lips.

"Master..."

"Yes, I'm here."

Yale's eyelashes quivered slightly as he took a deep breath, reaching out to caress the side of the male's face. He lifted his head to return the intermittent kisses.

Outside the car window, a gentle snowfall, cold to the touch, once again graced the night sky that had just fallen.

Author's Note:

Yeye, who was previously bursting with joy like a blooming flower, instantly exploded in anger upon learning the truth. If not for the general's efforts to soothe him, he would have leaped into action, delivering fierce punches to those cunning individuals!

The general indeed handles emotions like an old-fashioned patriarch, with excessive protectiveness and numerous concerns. He's the type to meticulously prepare long johns, scarves, and down jackets for the cold, but right before they step out, he worries about the young one catching a cold or fever, thus retracting his decision – a male parent who can be complained about is understandable...

Back on Ettar, this aspect of his personality was only beginning to surface. But after returning to the main planet and being confronted with harsh conditions, it has become even more pronounced (sighs, collapses).