Chapter 177

Chapter 177

Bai Xiaoyu didn’t expect to see the old military doctor so soon. The other man’s appearance hadn’t changed at all in over twenty years. This reminded him once again that people from the star system aged extremely slowly, especially those of higher ranks.

Since he was surrounded by cubs and younger warriors, with the cubs changing every day and other adults showing little change over a year or two, he hadn’t immediately realized it.

The old military doctor looked at Bai Xiaoyu and said, "Have you not remembered yet? Or did you forget?"

It was understandable, considering that back then, he had just emerged from his shell and hadn’t returned to his body.

And even after so long, the little guy hadn’t contacted him. When the Marshal was rescued, he had turned into an egg, and the little guy’s consciousness within the Marshal's mental realm had never appeared again.

He had wanted to ask the Marshal what was going on, but the Marshal in that state naturally knew nothing. It was only later that he learned the Marshal had saved the little guy’s reckless brother, after which he had become a different person, giving him some vague suspicions.

Now that he saw the person in front of him, he recognized him almost immediately. After all, he had seen the little guy’s consciousness form many times over the years. Even though they had the same appearance, their temperament was completely different.

This time, his contact with the little guy was mainly to confirm if it was indeed him, and of course, to talk about the medications.

The first time he came into contact with the medications refined by the little guy, he was incredibly surprised.

In their legion, the Royal family and the Huang Family provided mostly B-grade medications, with a small portion being A-grade. The medications Su Ran brought back were all S-grade or above, with the highest reaching 2S+.

To be honest, at his age, it was the first time he had seen so many top-grade medications.

Although there weren’t many top-grade medications in the star system, they were mostly in the hands of powerful factions on Imperial Star. Their legion wasn’t without them, but these top-grade medications were reserved for life-saving purposes. During wartime, there were always warriors in need of life-saving medications every moment. So, except for certain special medications that were left over, their stock of top-grade medications was extremely scarce. Most of the time, they arrived in small quantities, sometimes only a few bottles.

This situation continued until Su Ran brought the medications back.

He was fortunate to witness thousands of top-grade medications at the most needed moment, which was like seeing a ray of hope. Most of the warriors who were barely holding on in the legion received treatment.

Especially those warriors who were infected by the Bug’s dark substances during the battle with the Marshal. Many had already perished, and the remaining ones were mentally prepared for the worst. Unexpectedly, things took a turn for the better, and they were all saved.

Not only that, but their mental energy and physical condition had also improved due to the ordeal, and even their aptitude had become better.

Top-grade purifying medications, if released, would be coveted by major factions and might even be auctioned at sky-high prices in the black market. Yet, here they were, arriving in batches for use on the battlefield.

When Su Ran returned, he said that the Marshal had rescued a great treasure. Now, seeing the two standing together, the old military doctor realized how true that was.

Although the medications delivered so far were still far from enough, they had already saved many critically injured warriors. Unlike before, when they could only watch helplessly as the other party’s breath faded away.

Although he mentioned the military supply merchant to the little guy with some teasing, he knew that the scale of Fire Seed hadn’t reached that level yet. However, it wouldn’t be excessive to suggest and advise the little guy to develop in that direction, right?

After all, apart from the medications provided by the Royal Pharmacy, which weren’t counted within the military expenses, the medications provided by the Huang Family as military suppliers were settled by the Imperial Headquarters and accounted for in their monthly military expenses. The next month, the corresponding expenses would be deducted directly from their legion’s military funds.

These credits were no small amount. They weren’t stingy with the military expenses, but in the early years when the Huang Family had just become their military supplier, both the quality of the medications and the delivery times were acceptable. However, in recent years, not only had the quality of the medications become uneven, but there were also frequent issues during the delivery of medications in wartime, resulting in severe consequences that still filled him with grief and indignation whenever he thought about it.

The incident where the little guy’s brother swapped medications involved the Huang Family.

Unfortunately, they didn’t have solid evidence.

Now, the Huang Family’s medications, if not delivered in time during wartime, would be fatal for them.

Bai Xiaoyu suddenly saw the old military doctor frown and come back to his senses, saying, "I only remembered a little, and as for the military supply merchant, I’m currently working towards that."

The old military doctor responded, reining in his previous emotions, "Then our legion will wait for you."

After a while, he suddenly looked resentful again, "You remembered, so why didn’t you contact me before? Don’t tell me you didn’t have a way to reach me. You’ve met Su Ran; he has my contact information."

Bai Xiaoyu quickly explained, "I only started to remember a little while ago and haven’t fully recovered yet."

The old military doctor looked at him as if he wasn’t lying. "Alright, don’t forget to add my contact info."

After a few more words, the old military doctor glanced at the Big Black Egg next to him. "Commander, this is a great opportunity. Hurry up and bring this person back. All the warriors in the legion are desperately waiting for these medicines."

After hanging up the communication, Bai Xiaoyu breathed a sigh of relief.

He continued to inspect the Herb Base and then brought everyone back. On their return, they happened to run into Warrior Captain Cui Zhanpeng and a few others who were on patrol. They were currently in their beast forms, moving at a very fast pace.

The two sides quickly exchanged greetings. Bai Xiaoyu noticed their bio-mechanical limbs. They couldn’t use advanced mechs at the moment and could only use regular ones. The speed and performance of regular mechs were even inferior to their beast forms, so most of the warriors patrolled using their beast forms.

This reminded him of the Creation Pill he was currently researching. He was only missing one more herb to complete the formula. Once that was done, these warriors would be able to regrow new limbs.

The next day, the Dawn team returned, each of them excitedly operating their brand-new mechs. Mo Yan and Mo Lin immediately started a sparring match with their mechs. The intense battle inspired the other Dawn members, and soon the sky above the breeding facility was filled with various dazzling mechs engaged in combat.

The Little Prince and Little Bai stood on either side of Bai Xiaoyu, looking up at the scene.

The Little Prince, after holding back for a while, couldn’t help but let his gaze shift back and forth between Bai Xiaoyu’s face and the fighting vehicles above.

He couldn’t understand again how Little Bai could have made a mistake. Would the Emperor really let the Bugs behave so freely over his head?

Forget it, he decided not to care anymore.

Bai Xiaoyu also couldn’t figure out why the Little Prince suddenly became angry and, when asked, the Little Prince just huffed and refused to say anything.

During the fight, several patrol groups passed by. The big cats watched those advanced mechs for a while, their eyes involuntarily revealing longing. But the warriors quickly collected themselves and continued patrolling in other directions.

At that moment, a young eagle with its body stuck together rushed out, looking at the mechs above and flapping its wings excitedly.

Bai Xiaoyu withdrew his gaze from the warriors and focused again on the two conjoined young eagles.

His Creation Pill formula would need to be restored as soon as possible.

Once the Dawn team finished their sparring, they began to fawn over their renewed mechs.

With the improved combat systems, the mechs' performance had significantly increased. Equipped with the latest weapons, they were not only more combat-effective but also faster at retreating.

Mechs could be upgraded and modified, but it required a large number of credits and, more importantly, an excellent mech modification team. After the modifications, these mechs had reached peak performance. These teams didn’t take on just any client. As space pirates, they were somewhat excluded, and the prices were astronomical. Of course, they were also reluctant to let unfamiliar hands modify their mechs.

Mo Yan brought Mo Lin over, "Boss, we are truly grateful to you. This mech modification has resulted in the mech of my dreams. All the improvements I requested were perfectly implemented!"

Mo Lin nodded somewhat awkwardly, "Over the past few days, we’ve also familiarized ourselves with the medicine delivery process. We’ve designed the routes for each planet, avoiding high-risk natural and man-made areas. Once the large combat transport arrives at the best delivery point, we can start delivering the medicines using mechs. Of course, we’ve also planned a route to transport herbs back from your other herb base planet."

Bai Xiaoyu nodded, "Alright, I’ll take you to familiarize yourselves with the medicine storage warehouse. We’ll rely on you then."

Mo Yan rubbed the back of his head and said with a smile, "What reliance? The mech modifications alone cost a lot. In the future, feel free to work these guys to the bone and make them repay their debt through labor, including me. Besides, you’ve helped us with new false identities. Now we don’t have to worry about being hunted by others for the bounty."

This was exactly the lifestyle they had always wanted, and they could once again roam the star system as before. Although they were currently only traveling between a few hundred planets, it was expected to increase in the future.

After thanking Bai Xiaoyu contentedly, Mo Yan led everyone to the medicine warehouse. They were shocked to see the top-tier medicines.

Mo Yan’s eyes sparkled with greed, "Boss, aren’t you afraid I’ll run away with these top-tier medicines?"

Bai Xiaoyu replied, "I am, especially since medicines are scarce right now. But would you really do that?"

Mo Yan patted his chest and assured, "Of course not, do you think I’m that kind of person?"

He paused and then asked, "Oh, and don’t tell Hao Qiao. We’ll slip out quietly."

Bai Xiaoyu: "Isn't it a bit inappropriate? Besides, do we still have enough doctors in your team? Should we arrange another one?"

Mo Yan: "We have more than one doctor. Besides, this time when we go out, it won’t be like before where we might fall into danger at any moment. Having regular doctors is sufficient. It’s better for Hao Qiao to stay with the medical team and spend more time with the students."

Bai Xiaoyu: "He's coming over. You tell him."

Upon hearing this, Mo Yan froze for a moment. He turned his head and saw Hao Qiao standing with a tall, pale-looking man who was holding his hand and rambling nonsense. Seeing Hao Qiao's dark face, Mo Yan couldn't help but laugh out loud.

Hao Qiao's expression immediately turned dangerous, and the man next to him stopped his actions, not daring to continue.

Hao Qiao yanked his hand away and glared at Mo Yan. "Don't you owe me an explanation?"

Mo Yan: "Doctor Hao, aren’t you overqualified for this kind of mission? We're law-abiding citizens now. If we really get seriously injured, we'll come back for your treatment. Not to mention, there’s the boss’s potion—a top-tier 2S potion. One sip of this potion, and there’s basically nothing for you to do."

Hao Qiao took a deep breath. "Fine."

After that, he turned and left, with the man behind him quickly following. Behind them, a large group of students led by Chen Ying were staring eagerly in this direction. When they saw that Hao Qiao was angered, they all glared over.

Mo Yan pouted. "He’s got a partner now, and he’s rubbing it in my face as a single guy. And he even has a group of followers. Looks like he’s got quite the attitude now."

Mo Lin nodded.

Although they said this, there was more blessing than reluctance in their eyes as they looked at Hao Qiao.

Bai Xiaoyu looked at them and couldn't help but feel both amused and exasperated.

Three days later, a massive ship adorned with a flaming seed symbol took off, and many people saw it off.

Mo Yan and the others waved goodbye with teary eyes. Hao Qiao couldn't help but say, "Stop acting like this. You’re coming back in less than three days. This trip is just to scout and deliver potions to three hundred planets. Hurry up and go."

Hao Qiao was the last to leave as he watched the ship disappear from view. At first, his steps were hesitant, but they soon became firm.

Bai Xiaoyu didn't disturb him before he left. It was late at night when Hao Qiao came to find him just as he was about to sleep.

After comforting the three tiger cubs in bed, Bai Xiaoyu came out and saw Hao Qiao with a relaxed expression. "Have you made your decision?"

Hao Qiao nodded. "Boss, I'll take charge of the medical team from now on."

Bai Xiaoyu: "Good, I've been waiting for that statement from you for a long time."

Hao Qiao: "Sorry to have kept you all waiting."

Bai Xiaoyu knew who else Hao Qiao was referring to besides himself. "Aren't you going to tell them?"

Hao Qiao: "They'll know when they come back, right?"

After seeing off Hao Qiao, with the establishment of the potion delivery team and the confirmation of the medical team leader, Bai Xiaoyu looked at the star map, which had over three hundred planets lit up, and entered a pleasant dream with a good mood.

In his dream, the old military doctor from not long ago was still there. By now, his consciousness had been repaired quite well.

Normally, Marshal Bai's absorption of the repair substance was average, but his physique was excellent for absorbing potions. Then the little one in the sea of consciousness hugged the white tiger's head and rolled around, rubbing against it. After a while, the short arms and legs began to move, seemingly a bit uncomfortable.

As a result, Marshal Bai took him to the old military doctor.

After a thorough examination, the old military doctor didn't find anything unusual.

To the surprise of both, the consciousness wrapped by the white tiger's mental energy tendrils began to stretch.

In their eyes, the little one's consciousness rapidly transformed from the appearance of an infant not long after birth to that of a five or six-year-old cub.

Bai Xiaoyu looked at the old military doctor's expression, reminiscent of when he had seen Little Prince and Little Bai seemingly grow three years older overnight. And now, he was growing even faster than they had.

Facing the marshal's gaze, the old military doctor reiterated, "Other than the consciousness growing, everything else is normal. The cubs in Imperial Star have shown no changes, so why did the consciousness suddenly grow so rapidly?"

The old military doctor couldn't sense it, and the instruments couldn't detect it either. But Bai Xiaoyu had already felt the faint pressure of the impending apocalyptic mental energy, and Marshal Bai, whose consciousness was in contact with his, must have noticed it too.

Facing his own changes, the little guy beamed, "Big White, look at me—I've grown up!"

Bai Chen replied, "At your age, you need to start studying on the star network."

The little guy was stunned, "Star network, Big White, will you come with me?"

Bai Chen said, "I might not have the time, but I can accompany you for a little while occasionally."

The little guy nodded contentedly, "Okay, let's go to the star network."

Seeing this, the old military doctor interjected, "Marshal, can the little guy access the star network now? He doesn’t have a physical form or an optical brain."

Bai Chen said, "Use mine."

After thinking about it, the old military doctor had a sudden realization. The little guy’s consciousness was resonating with the marshal’s, effectively allowing them to share the same body. Naturally, the optical brain would recognize them as the same person.

It was entirely feasible.

Thus, Bai Xiaoyu watched as Marshal Bai went back and taught the little guy how to access the star network.

At first, the little guy was quite curious about what the star network was, but soon, wrapped in Marshal Bai's mental energy, he entered a magical world.

When he opened his eyes, the little guy realized he could move and run, controlling this new form with ease. However, this body had no mental sea and no white tiger, which startled him. He yelped, "Big White, where are you?"

Bai Chen replied, "I'm here."

Hearing the voice and sensing the presence of the marshal's mental energy around him, the little guy quickly felt at ease.

Since it was his first time on the star network, Bai Xiaoyu saw Marshal Bai reviewing documents while patiently guiding the little guy through the star network, step by step.

Marshal Bai's star network avatar was generated through a scan, a perfect replica of his real self, a massive silver-white tiger. The star network couldn't detect his exact level or generate specific data, but he was currently the strongest existence on the star network.

With a single leap, he could cross vast distances.

On the first day, without any learning, the little guy used the white tiger's identity to run wild on the star network. The white tiger’s ID was a random string of characters, clearly auto-generated and never changed.

After playing on the star network for half a day, he suddenly came across an ancient courtyard. Unlike other places in the star system, the walls here became translucent blue data streams when touched.

The little guy was extremely curious and walked in. He discovered that the data streams would automatically display without needing to touch anything.

His gaze eventually settled on a spot that resembled a black hole, with the bottom of the hole also consisting of blue data streams, though slightly lighter in color.

The little guy walked over and stared at it for a long while before finally speaking, "Why is there a fish pond here?"

When Bai Chen finished his meeting, he saw the little guy's silver-white tiger tail fluffed up as he crouched down, dipping his tail into the data stream, his ears perked up, completely still.

Bai Chen closed the file in his hand, "Fishing?"

The white tiger nodded vigorously but moved gently so as not to scare the fish, "Shh, Big White, keep your voice down, don't scare the fish away."

Bai Chen said, "Okay."

Bai Xiaoyu covered his face, thinking, what fish could possibly be here? Marshal Bai was really letting the little guy mess around.

Soon, the little guy’s eyes sparkled with excitement, and he swung his tail, "Big White, I got a bite!"

He turned back happily, wanting to show what he had caught. He saw a translucent, light blue, fist-sized orb clinging to the tip of his tail, "I think I caught a light blue fish… or maybe a fish egg?"