Chapter 74

Chapter 74

At the X-1 Research Institute, Building A-12, the Biochemical Laboratory.

Yale deftly removed his protective lab coat, folded it neatly, and stowed it away in his portable storage without haste. Instead, he sat down at a chair and switched on his optical computer.

"Not leaving?"

Adelaide passed by him, checking to ensure that all the instruments and facilities were properly shut down, casually asking as he did so.

"No rush. My mate won't be here for a while."

Yale's last message on his optical computer was from half an hour ago; his male partner had sent a message to pick him up.

He glanced at it a few more times, unknowingly furrowing his brow.

A cold war.

It seemed that he and his male partner were currently in the midst of a silent conflict.

As for why he said "seems," it was because they were still affectionate and intimate as usual, openly discussing any progress or news. In reality, it wasn't much different from before.

However, he was well aware that the male had something on his mind. Xi Ze also knew that Yale knew there was a secret, yet he stubbornly refused to speak about it.

They continued to play this guessing game, even going to bed multiple times without resolving anything.

It was too bizarre.

Yale stroked his chin for a long while but still failed to figure it out. However, he wasn't particularly anxious. On the contrary, he found the situation... rather novel.

He didn't think he had ever engaged in a silent treatment with anyone before. This kind of interaction, reminiscent of elementary school children, felt unusual both in his previous human life and his current life as a worm.

Furthermore, the male was incredibly easy to tease in this state. Whenever he couldn't endure it anymore, he would resort to actions to silence Yale, only to end up benefiting him in the end.

Before Yale could delve deeper into the reason behind their cold war, several news alerts caught his attention:

"Massive illicit funds seized in the Caria Galaxy, along with numerous clues pointing to possible collusion between military and criminals?!"

"General Antonio mired in scandal, is the First Legion about to face an investigation?"

"Details of His Majesty's Assassination Attempt Revealed…"

Scanning through numerous articles at an alarming pace, he found one sensational headline after another, leaving the majority of the Star Network users in a state of confusion. Each news item was accompanied by hundreds of thousands of comments.

Some influential bloggers had even deduced a fairly accurate picture based on these tidbits, almost exposing the current situation within the First Legion.

Everything was proceeding as planned.

As Yale read on, a faint sense of unease crept over him, as if he could sense a stealthy shark lurking beneath the turbulent ocean waves.

—A single misstep could lead to a devastating bite, or even the loss of something invaluable.

After Adelaide ensured all was in order and closed the door, he caught sight of Yale browsing the news and casually commented, "It seems like things have become rather tumultuous lately."

"Recently, our Father has been unusually busy. Every time I ask, his expression is grave, suggesting that significant changes are indeed on the horizon."

But Yale cared about only one thing, "Your Majesty, will this incident affect you?"

Meeting the unmoving face of the male parent, Yale instantly grasped the subtle implication behind the question.

"I won't be personally involved in these matters. The research shouldn't be affected."

Adelaide nodded in satisfaction and began packing to head home.

"By the way, have you heard that the Empire Research Institute is recruiting fresh talent from various universities lately?"

The Empire Research Institute?

Yale's mind conjured up an image of a grumpy, mustached face. He coughed awkwardly. "Yes, I've heard. What about it?"

"You could give it a shot. They usually recruit fourth-year students who are about to graduate, but if you want to continue your studies, you can apply later."

Adelaide shared his recent application endeavors with Yale.

"Although you don't have a formal academic record, that shouldn't be much of an issue. If you're capable, you should give it a try."

Yale hummed noncommittally and suddenly brought up an unrelated topic. "I've heard... that the director of the research institute has quite an eccentric temperament."

"There are rumors, but they don't affect the research. Everyone knows about their scientific capabilities and commitment. You don't need to worry about any shady academic pressure or exploitation."

Indeed, there was no pressure, only simmering frustration.

After he was rescued a year ago, his mental state had been terrible, and he felt too ashamed to face this mentor. After sincerely writing a thousand-word apology letter and submitting a leave of absence application, he packed up and ran off to Etal.

That email still remained unread, but Yale could already sense the unexpressed rage lurking behind the blank reply box.

...In short, if he were to show up before his mentor now, he'd likely get scolded, mocked, and then assigned to run errands for various projects.

Yale coughed softly, still avoiding a direct response.

"I'll think about it. I wish you the best with your application; the research environment there is genuinely excellent."

Recalling that brief yet intensely focused and joyful period, he realized that he mostly missed and longed for those times.

Back then, his mental state hadn't been strong enough to continue his research, and it wasn't much better now. Running away once was forgivable, but a second time would truly earn him his mentor's "ban."

"You may not want to apply, but in half a month, there'll be an inter-school academic exchange conference. Surely, you don't want to miss that, as it only happens once every five years, and it's quite a rare opportunity."

Adelaide finished packing efficiently but didn't rush to leave. Leaning against the wall, he asked for Yale's opinion so they could attend together, "You should have received an invitation by now."

"Is that so? Let me check."

Yale froze for a moment and casually unlocked his personal storage, fishing out a stack of exquisitely designed invitations—about a dozen or so.

These were all imitations of ancient-style invites, on top of the countless electronic ones that had flooded his inbox. Altogether, there were nearly a hundred.

After glancing through them in the past few days, he found they were all for various balls or gatherings, so he had set them aside.

"Invitations? What kind of invitations?!"

A student who had just entered the lounge looked curious as they hastily packed their belongings while speaking loudly.

"It's said that the Xie family is holding an auction tonight. I wanted to attend, but I couldn't get an invitation no matter how hard I tried. Even begging my sire didn't help. It's so frustrating."

He complained, casting a glance at Yale beside him with a hint of envy.

"However, I suppose Your Excellency has received one, right? I've heard that the Xie family is wealthy and influential, mainly dealing in arms. They've only recently established ties with the viscount. Rich people just keep getting richer, don't they..."

The names 'Xie family' and 'auction' seemed to ring a bell.

Yale pondered for a moment before recalling that Xi Ze had mentioned this a few days ago, saying he would bring him along today. "!"

"Beep beep."

A faint red glow illuminated the holo-computer, and even without opening it, Yale could sense that an omega was approaching. After bidding Adelaide farewell, he hurried out the door.

At the foot of the academic building, a hovering car stood silently. Before Yale could draw near, one of its doors swung open.

Xi Ze was still dressed in his impeccable military uniform, his cap firmly in place, as if he had rushed over straight from work. A tiny walkie-talkie was clipped to his earbone, indicating he might have interrupted a task to be here.

"Alpha Sovereign."

He adjusted the communicator's reception, unusually restrained as if unsure how to interact with the male insectoid.

"Still working?"

Yale was entirely unperturbed, affectionately embracing the slender waist of the female insectoid. Feeling the cold buckle of the belt digging into him, he lowered his voice slightly.

"There's nothing urgent. First, I'll take you to dinner, then we'll attend the Xie family's auction."

Xi Ze reached out to pat Yale's head, his expression softening slightly.

After they both got into the hovercar, the female insect changed the destination to the Jewel Tower.

*

In the car, Xi Ze took the opportunity to brief Yale on some knowledge – the head of the Xie family, Xie Side, was a big shot who had commandeered half of the arms supply chain single-handedly.

Yale had once asked about the other half, and Xi Ze had mentioned that they had recently regained twenty percent in the past few months. Perhaps in another few months, they could reclaim the original sixty-eight percent.

But there was no rush. According to the female insect, this family head had already sensed the shift in the situation before he rose to power and returned to their side without any obstacles.

At the entrance of the tower, a plump insect spread its arms wide in welcome, its face flushed with joy and a hearty laugh escaping its lips. "Your Highness, Marshal, good evening! We've been waiting for you like stars and moons... Let's talk as we walk!"

As Xie Side led them through a special passage into the building, he smoothly ingratiated himself.

"I was once an orphan left behind on the battlefield, aided by the Marshal. How could I ever forget your kindness? Am I right?"

He completely forgot the scene where, after being sternly reprimanded, he had tearfully and reluctantly sealed away all his illicit businesses that very night.

The drone paid him little attention, still absorbed in the news from that side. Yale, who had been watching the spectacle, never expected to become the target of the firepower so suddenly.

"In fact, this auction is mainly organized for His Excellency."

Xie Side looked at him with a benevolent expression, like a caring elder thinking of his beloved drone.

"At the previous ball, I was unable to attend due to some matters and thus missed the chance to meet His Excellency and present a small token of my admiration. It has always been a great regret for me!"

Yale coughed slightly, feeling a bit awkward. He could only manage a few polite responses, drowning in the overwhelming enthusiasm.

"Ah, yes! A younger member of our family mentioned knowing you and having some history. Please take a look at this..."

As Xie Side spoke, he led them into a private room. Suddenly, as if remembering something, he slapped his forehead and called out, "Little Zhao! Come here!"

At the sound of that pet name, Yale's ears twitched, and a strange premonition arose. Sure enough, when he looked up, he saw Xie Zhao emerge from somewhere in the corner.

The young male insect stood awkwardly, lowering his head to avoid eye contact, letting out an embarrassed chuckle.

"It's been a long time, Your Majesty. Hahaha..."

"Nice to see you again."

Yale paused, his lips curving into a subtle smile. "Doctor Xie."

Xie Zhao stepped forward and finally lifted his gaze to meet the male insect in front of him, striving to conceal his unease.

"Yes, yes, I didn't expect you to still remember me..."

But Yale tugged on the female insect beside him, diverting his attention. "Xi Ze?"

Upon meeting those familiar golden eyes, Xie Zhao visibly sucked in a sharp breath, nearly losing his composure. "S-S Marshal! Long, long time no see!"

Xi Ze's eyes narrowed slightly. Just as the opposite female insect was about to bolt, he averted his gaze, his voice low and deep.

"I do remember you, and quite vividly."

Vividly.

Those four words were like a bolt of lightning, striking Xie Zhao's forehead, making his eyes widen instantly.

Haunting memories of being mentally tormented by the alien insect flashed before his eyes like a deathbed flashback.

In that tensest of moments, Xie Side, who had stolen a moment from his busy schedule, stepped forward, picked up the shattered Xie Zhao, and pushed him aside to take his place.

"Your reminiscing is over! Your Highness, please retreat to the lounge to rest. I've already instructed the work drones to prepare the auction items. You can inspect them at any time!"

Noticing the expression on Xie Zhao's face, Yale guessed what had happened and was barely able to suppress his laughter, but he still entered the lounge as instructed with grace.

"See you later."

Before closing the door, he casually waved at Xie Zhao, whose tightly suppressed smile still managed to slip through.

There it was! The Little Divine Bug's Smile!

Xie Zhao stood there, slightly stunned. That smile seemed to warm his very corpse for an instant. Even after the door closed, he remained in a daze, waving faintly and whispering.

"...S-See you later."

The lounge was decorated with understated luxury, its floor covered in a plush layer of carpet, resembling a luxurious hotel suite.

It was already half past eight, and the darkness outside the window was deepening.

Yale slumped into the overly soft sofa, too lazy to bother straightening up. He engaged in casual small talk with the head of the Xie family, managing to glean all the details about the auction within just a few minutes.

Speaking of which, he actually had a rather favorable impression of auctions. Back in Etar, it was through an auction that he acquired the key and that piece of Mecha Core.

Mecha Core... he still didn't know how the construction was progressing. He hoped it would be finished soon.

Xie Side, with his insect-like appearance and seemingly dull demeanor, keenly sensed Yale's distraction. Apologetically smiling, he offered a considerate choice.

"Is Your Excellency feeling tired? My fault for rambling on. Would you like to take a break now or view the auction items first?"

Yale let out a long "mm," his eyes momentarily vacant from fatigue, before finally making a decision. "Let's have a look then."

He couldn't figure out why they insisted on him taking a look... were they using the perspective of an S-Class male insect to bestow blessings?

Meanwhile, Xi Ze, who had instinctively walked to the floor-to-ceiling window upon entering, had just finished his arrangements on the other side. After turning off his walkie-talkie, he returned to stand behind Yale.

Observing the scene before him without revealing any emotions, Xie Side tapped three times on the miniature walkie-talkie embedded in his ring. "Alright, alright, just a moment, I'll bring it over right away."

The Xie family is virtually as wealthy as a nation, and the auctions they host are nothing short of extravagant. The collections up for auction are almost exclusively rare and priceless treasures, each one worthy enough to be the grand finale of another auction.

At this moment, they were arranged in sequence on the center table of the room, each nestled delicately within an exquisite jewelry box, awaiting the male insect's discerning selection and favor.

Yale cast a glance.

Well, it's exceptionally radiant, almost blinding to the eyes.

"Please, choose one that you fancy," the host insect, attired in a sleek black-and-white suit, said nervously by his side.

Somewhat unexpectedly, yet not entirely so.

Yale rose from the sofa and stepped closer, his gaze lowering to survey the array of exquisite artifacts without any visible reaction.

Regrettably, he had little interest in these items.

As he browsed, the host insect couldn't resist peering out slightly, anxiously following Yale's movements and line of sight. Though it was trying its best to restrain itself, its eyes were clearly burning with an intensity that seemed ready to ignite flames.

At first, Yale assumed the insect was worried he would choose the most valuable piece.

After circling the display without picking up a single item, the organizer insect wore an expression of astonishment, which then turned into despair. It stammered, nearly trembling, "Not a single one you like?"

"I'm in charge of organizing this auction, and I carefully selected the theme and exhibits. Are they really that terrible?"

It was on the verge of tears, despite its burly physique suggesting otherwise, as if it were about to curl up in a corner and sob quietly. It looked... rather overwhelming to deal with.

Yale lowered his head to examine the collection once more. Eventually, from the dazzling rows, he picked out a charming brooch in the shape of a liquid-like kitten.

It appeared ordinary at first glance, but it was likely quite expensive.

Then he lifted his gaze and met a face even more on the verge of tears, the orbits reddened from self-reproach, creating a profound impact.

"I see... Your Highness prefers something more adorable, huh? Sobs, sobs, it was my fault for focusing too much on luxury and glitter."

Yale coughed softly, unable to resist a light chuckle. He comforted the other, "Actually, they all look great. You've worked hard."

The male insect's eyes widened abruptly, looking rather comical, but soon, an immense joy erupted within him, illuminating his entire face.

"Thank you so much, Your Highness! You're such a super gentle and kind insect! Waaaahhh..."

Yale's gaze wandered for an instant, but he still handed the item over to the attendant under the shimmering gaze, placing it in an even more extravagant box for packaging.

"Has Your Highness made your selection?"

Xie Side seized the moment to interject, asking eagerly, "May the auction commence now?"

It seemed that the auction couldn't begin without his approval. No wonder the hall was already filled with nobles, yet they were all patiently waiting.

Yale nodded decisively. "Let's begin."

The host insect, upon receiving the correct signal, instantly perked up from its whining state, and began to bustle about in a chaotic yet orderly fashion.Swiftly, it organized the auction items and dispatched them one after another.

Soon, a beam of light illuminated the auction floor below, and the first item for bidding was presented by a servant onto the central round platform.

Xie Side studied the male insect's expression and suddenly began to elaborate extensively.

"On the surface, this auction is about bidding for items, but in reality, it's an opportunity for others to pledge their allegiance to you. Once a bid is successful, one must present their family crest, and the money paid for the auctioned item will be transferred into your name."

Family crests are not casually displayed or given away, for they carry immense symbolic significance. Once bestowed solemnly, it signifies an alliance with the insectoid clan.

Yale raised an eyebrow slowly, clearly surprised. "Is that so?"

Xi Ze hadn't mentioned this to him, but it made sense. The female might have been afraid that the small number of items up for auction would disappoint him, so it was better to reveal them once they had good results.

Yet, these unspoken rules were exposed by the seemingly carefree insect before him. Yale didn't believe that Xie Side couldn't see the reason behind his ignorance.

"Your Highness has no idea about your own influence!"

The head of the Xie family was a little frustrated, emphasizing his words with a heavier tone. "Just watch, I bet the auction items will be in high demand!"

Yale glanced at him, noticing the well-concealed probe in the male's eyes. He then lowered his gaze to focus on the auction below and suddenly smiled.

"Well then, I shall look forward to it?"

Below, the auction floor was vast and designed in a mesmerizing vortex shape. The boxes and compartments were arranged in tiers, descending towards the center where the auction stage stood.

So far, the auction atmosphere was intense, even breaking through the nobles' usual restraint. It was a lively scene with a thousand bidding cards competing for each item.

"Seventy million star coins for the first time!"

"Seventy million star coins for the second time!"

"…B-05 item has been successfully auctioned!"

The value of the items was arranged in ascending order, with the earlier ones being less expensive, catering to mid-tier nobles or other insect beings of various backgrounds.

The distinction was evident from the seating arrangement and the concentration of bidding insects.

Bang!

"B-15 item has been successfully auctioned!"

Xie Side hadn't expected such an enthusiastic atmosphere. It truly felt like a rush, with the fear of missing out if one didn't act quickly enough.

The influence of an S-class male insect was indeed significant.

"A-07 item has been successfully auctioned!"

"And A-11…"

From B-grade to A-grade, almost every item was fiercely contested, with prices escalating to astronomical sums.

Yet, when it came to the S-grade items, the bidding voices gradually softened, indicating the true competition among the elite aristocratic circles.

"The S-1 lot has been successfully auctioned!"

The momentary tension was broken, paving the way for a promising start. Yale glanced across at the opposite box, somewhat surprised to spot the First Prince.

Augustus also caught sight of the male and nodded with a smile. Many nobles, following his gaze, looked up and indeed saw Yale's profile, their expressions turning solemn.

After Augustus secured the first S-grade item, the subsequent lots were gradually sold as well, fetching prices far higher than the previous lively bidding, even shocking the insects present.

"Are you satisfied?"

Yale spoke abruptly, lifting his gaze to meet Xie Side's slightly stiff expression, his own eyes holding a cryptic depth.

"Didn't you come unprepared with enough auction items today?"

In the dim glow, the male insect's expression was faint, but his eyes shone with a sharp light that pierced through the elaborate schemes and intrigues below without being distracted by the prosperity.

"The insects below were here for me, yet they didn't obtain the item they desired. Shouldn't the House Lord do something about it?"

Xie Side swiftly composed his expression, nodding with a smile. "You're absolutely right, I've been careless! Please forgive me, forgive me!"

This was a subtle warning.

Was it because of the earlier probe, or perhaps...

Regardless of the reason, the male insect before him was clearly no pushover. His sharp edges were concealed, only revealed when provoked to sting intruders.

Yet, it was precisely this seemingly calm demeanor that was most terrifying. It was best not to provoke such a creature easily.

Recalling the news image he had seen, Xie Side remembered the male insect drenched in what appeared to be blood, yet its breathtaking beauty remained intact, showcasing a sharpness that could only be admired from afar.

A dull ache began to throb in his mind.

Xie Side apologized profusely, promising compensation that would satisfy the other party, thus pacifying the formidable figure.

During their exchange, a murmur of whispers swept through the auction hall below.

"The auction held back then to honor Sir Kanuo managed to sell only a small portion of the collection!"

"The items up for auction this time are significantly more superior in quality. A-grade items rival the previous S-grade, and B-grade ones surpass the former A-grade. The Marshal truly has extravagant tastes..."

"Not just the Marshal, but also Prince Firstborn, that arms dealer who's involved in casinos and auction houses, and Sir Vito, the leader of this new generation of nobles... Each of them is exceptionally wealthy!"

"Not just that! Let me see, there are also families renowned for their scientific giants who have sent their drones to participate. Speaking of research, didn't you see Director Mord bidding just now?"

Just a cursory count was enough to leave the tongue of even the most jaded space insect wagging; delving deeper might unearth a truly terrifying figure.

During their conversation, they would occasionally glance up at the figure not far away with a mixture of reverence and awe, almost daring not to meet the S-Rank's gaze directly.

The sudden appearance of this S-class male insect had left many insects in a state of disbelief, devoid of any sense of reality. They even harbored suspicions that it might be a fabrication for political intrigue.

Yet, as Yale's existence persisted, that all-pervading pressure and sense of sanctity gradually seeped into the very flesh and souls of every insect.

Even in Yale's presence, he couldn't help but incline his body slightly, fearful of any unintended disrespect or offense.

Not only was this auction causing ripples, but in another district not far away, something was brewing that would shake the very foundations of the planet.

11 PM.

The auction officially concluded. After watching for so long, Yale was feeling slightly drowsy. After sending Xie Side away, he intended to return home with his mate.

"Lord Male."

Hearing his name being called, Yale instinctively turned his head and looked at the male standing by another window. Their eyes met, and Yale was momentarily stunned.

There was a blazing spark in those golden eyes, a mix of joy and fury that was strikingly vivid.

"I have some good news for you."

"The current First Legion General, Antonio Edkara, openly betrayed the Empire and fled to an external star system at 10:57 PM tonight."

Yale's eyes widened incrementally.

"Three minutes after his defection, the Imperial Family officially issued a warrant for his arrest."

Sharing a glance with Xi Ze, the latter finally couldn't hold back his laughter. His sharp and composed features contrasted with his rising tone.

"He's done for."

Author's Note:

A fresh couple amidst the Cold War in space.