Chapter 27

Chapter 27

The inauguration ceremony was reconvened after the protective shield was repaired.

Even before the live broadcast began, many were already glued to their holoscreens. The media hailed this inauguration as the most highly anticipated in history.

However, Luo Ci hadn’t paid much attention to the StarNet these past few days, focusing instead on the Sea Clan warriors. This trip made him realize just how much the Sea Clan loved competition—whether it was brewing medicine, serving the Sea Emperor meals, or standing guard at night, everything was decided through duels.

He finally understood where those inexplicable bruises had come from… Not to mention the lawn meticulously maintained by the steward, which had been utterly ruined in just a few days. The Sea Clan members would start fighting the moment they locked eyes with someone they disliked. The freshly laid lawn was torn bare within days, leaving the steward distraught.

Only after Luo Ci repeatedly emphasized the issue did the Sea Clan warriors stay away from the lawn. However, their aggressive tendencies remained. He felt they were a bit too energetic but couldn’t think of a good solution for the time being.

Amid his worries, the day of the ceremony arrived.

When the hover-car came to pick them up, it was still early.

Normally at this hour, Luo Ci would still be curled up in bed, sound asleep. He hadn’t fully woken up yet.

It wasn’t until the hover-car started moving that he rubbed his eyes, sat up, and clung to Helunen’s waist, burying his face against his chest.

The little merbaby blinked his round eyes and looked up. Helunen’s attire was somewhat similar to when they first met—his chiseled features, his black hair swept back with a few strands falling over his forehead, his uniform immaculate, and a dress uniform coat draped over his shoulders.

Luo Ci tilted his head, his small hands clutching the fabric as he nuzzled closer, insisting on pressing his cheek against Helunen’s shoulder and neck.

It felt like Helunen had grown far more indulgent toward him since returning from Qunqing.

Before, though Helunen had allowed him to cling, there had always been limits—like insisting he sleep alone.

But recently, Helunen seemed to have completely forgotten about that rule. Luo Ci had slipped into his bed several times, and Helunen pretended not to notice.

Lately, he would quietly burrow under the covers before Helunen went to sleep. Helunen didn’t insist on removing the little lump from the bed. Once he assumed Helunen was asleep, he would squirm closer and settle on his chest.

However, he wasn’t a very still sleeper. One moment, the blanket would be neatly tucked around him, and the next, it would be kicked to the floor.

Even if he curled up into a little merbaby roll, he might fall asleep on Helunen’s chest but wake up either sprawled over his face or nestled in the crook of his neck, his soft, milky belly exposed. His tail would sway left and right in his dreams, and sometimes his plump tail would end up draped over Helunen’s nose, the fin veil covering his eyes.

When his biological clock kicked in, Helunen would wake up and try to move the fin veil aside.

Luo Ci, not wanting him to get up, would pout and wiggle his little tail, stubbornly pressing the delicate, translucent fin veil back over Helunen’s eyes. Only when Helunen gathered the chubby merbaby into his arms could he finally remove the obstruction from his vision.

This was practically their morning routine.

But most of the time, when Helunen woke up, Luo Ci would be sprawled limply in deep sleep, his tail completely relaxed, completely unaware that Helunen had gotten up.

With Helunen’s indulgence, Luo Ci became even more attached, wanting to stick to him at all times.

As the hover-car approached the ceremony venue, the soaring spires came into view. Luo Ci leaned against Helunen’s shoulder, peering outside.

“Mi…” Milo tilted his head and climbed onto the seat beside them, also looking out the window.

Originally, they hadn’t planned to bring Milo along. But when they were about to leave, Milo had woken up and wailed while clinging to Luo Ci, so they decided to take him with them.

Now, two little ones sat side by side on the seat, looking like they were heading out for a picnic.

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated ceremony venue was already fully prepared. The site was divided into two sections—the outer area for speeches and media interviews, and the inner area, separated only by a thin line, where representatives from various planets would gather, resembling a tea party.

The Sea Clan hadn’t made a public appearance in centuries, and the Sea Emperor’s first official appearance was at their leader’s inauguration. From any perspective, this was a historic occasion for the Federation.

Thus, the representatives noticed that after days of preparation, the ceremony had clearly become even more grand, especially in terms of security. The venue was heavily guarded by high-ranking generals, a testament to the Federation’s emphasis on the occasion.

The atmosphere inside was also far more harmonious than before. The moment the Federation Legion’s insignia-marked hover-car landed, the crowd hurried forward.

The memory of the overwhelming psychic onslaught that had crushed thousands of pirate ships was still fresh in their minds, haunting them. Even though they had mentally prepared themselves, their hearts still raced with nervousness.

As the host of the event, Lord Huinis naturally stepped forward to take charge. He inclined his head to Helunen and shook his hand briefly. “With so many military affairs lately, we’ve troubled you, Marshal.”

Helunen replied calmly, “Just doing my duty.”

Lord Huinis then bowed deeply—a gesture of utmost reverence—and said, “Your Imperial Majesty, your presence honors me deeply.”

Luo Ci gave a small nod, feeling shy and nervous inside but trying to maintain a composed expression. However, the sight of the tiny merbaby putting on a serious face only made Helunen’s heart melt with tenderness.

Lord Huinis smiled. “It’s been so long since I last saw you. I’ve longed for your presence.”

His words immediately gave the other politicians present a clear understanding—just as the news had reported, Lord Huinis and the Sea Emperor were indeed close.

The Federation was one of the foremost planets in the Star Alliance, especially in military strength. Though the capital had been ambushed by pirates, it was only because most of the Federation’s fleets were deployed at the border planets for defense. Logically, Lord Huinis had no reason to be so humble. His deference to the Sea Emperor only highlighted his goodwill and respect toward the Sea Clan.

But… where was the Sea Emperor?

The politicians peered about, searching, until a small head peeked out from Helunen’s chest. Downy white hair that begged to be touched, a face no bigger than a palm with luminous eyes, and milky little hands resting on Helunen’s arm.

Counting on his fingers, Luo Ci spoke in a soft yet earnest voice, “It hasn’t been that long. We saw each other just last month.”

The politicians were stunned, stealing glances at him. They hadn’t expected the Sea Emperor to be so young—at first glance, he looked like a snow-white glutinous rice ball… Was that translucent, gauzy thing his tail? No wonder Marshal Helunen was carrying him.

They had come fully prepared with utmost vigilance, but faced with such a sweet, doll-like merbaby, their defenses instantly melted.

It was impossible to maintain wariness toward such an adorable little one. The tiny bundle reminded them of the fondest memories in their hearts—most of them had children of their own at their age, and the merbaby was just so sweet and cute. Even if they wanted to act tough, they couldn’t.

The merbaby was practically a catalyst for easing interstellar tensions—while the politicians had approached the ceremony with solemnity, the moment Luo Ci’s large, liquid eyes turned their way, they softened their stern expressions. Scaring such a delicate child would be inhumane! They’d never forgive themselves.

Luo Ci widened his eyes, then quietly ducked his head back and rubbed his cheeks with his little hands.

Do faces get this stiff when people get older? He’d better massage his more often—he didn’t want to end up like that.

Feeling those chubby little hands pawing at his face, Helunen’s brow twitched. “Mind your manners,” he said sternly.

The tense atmosphere instantly dissipated.

“Your Majesty is right. To me, it has felt like an eternity,” Lord Huinis said, completely unbothered by the rebuttal. He gracefully bent down and gently lifted the tip of Luo Ci’s tail. The fin veil was delicate and soft, like the finest spun silk—far surpassing the touch of any luxury silk—and he attempted to press a kiss to it.

Luo Ci shyly curled his tail away.

A mermaid’s tail was covered in sensitive nerve endings, and having it kissed felt… too intimate. He quickly hid his tail in his arms.

Seeing the little mermaid’s embarrassment, Lord Huinis took no offense in the slightest. “My apologies, Your Majesty. It’s merely a custom from my homeland…”

Some cultures expressed affection through kisses.

“Mmm…” Luo Ci had never encountered such a custom before and was discomfited by the intimacy, the tips of his ears turning faintly pink.

Watching the blushing merbaby, Helunen fell silent for a few seconds before suddenly speaking. “What if I were to go to a frontier world and not see you for a month?”

“No way!” Luo Ci’s ear fins shot up straight. He placed his carefully hidden tail into Helunen’s palm and pursed his lips. “I’ll give you my tail, so you won’t go to the frontier world, okay…?”

Even three days apart from Helunen made meals lose their flavor—a whole month was unbearable. He couldn’t bear it.

Helunen glanced at Lord Huinis.

Huinis understood what that look meant.

See the difference now?

After being apart for a month, the little mermaid won’t even let you kiss her tail. She can’t stand being apart from me for a few days and even offered her tail to me.

Tch, such attitude.

The politicians nearby: "..."

Every politician present was the cream of the crop—how could they not sense the tension in the air? They struggled to maintain composed expressions, but their minds were in turmoil, unable to believe it—were these two really fighting over a mermaid's tail? Seriously? Helunen and Huinis?!

They must have misheard.

Hmm… Maybe there was some other hidden meaning? That had to be it.

Luo Ci’s thoughts were running wild too.

He was genuinely worried Helunen might abandon him and go to the wasteland planet.

Why had Helunen suddenly asked that? Did he already have such plans and was just sounding him out?

Cupping his cheeks worriedly, even after taking his seat, he had no interest in the feast laid out before him. Unable to hold back, he tugged Helunen’s sleeve and whispered, "Hey, lower your head a bit. I have something to tell you."

Helunen gestured to the other politicians exchanging pleasantries with him, getting their nod before bending down.

"What is it?"

Seeing the little mermaid flip his tail and whisper, the other politicians, pretending to chat, all strained to listen—they wanted to hear too.

Unfortunately, not being of the Sea Clan, they couldn’t catch a word.

Luo Ci wasn’t the type to keep things bottled up. Rather than overthinking, he’d rather ask outright. Whispering into Helunen’s ear, he said, "You’re not going to the wasteland planet, right? If you really have to go, take me with you..."

Helunen paused, surprised the little fish was still hung up on this. Noticing his gaze, the little one seemed embarrassed, pursing his full lips as a faint pink spread across his cheeks and ear tips. Yet, his large, glistening eyes still blinked expectantly, waiting for an answer.

Helunen always felt complicated in these moments. Even by his standards, the little mermaid was just too adorable… too adorable to tease further, reinforcing his resolve.

He sighed. "What I said earlier wasn’t serious. Don't worry about it. I’m not going anywhere."

"Promise… me?"

"Promise."

Luo Ci snorted and stuck out his pinky finger—a gesture for a pinky swear. Helunen sighed inwardly (still such a child) but linked his pinkies regardless.

Surprised at how easily he’d gotten the promise, Luo Ci blinked slowly before wrapping both arms around Helunen’s waist and nuzzling into his chest.

As the ceremony was about to begin, Luo Ci finally remembered his status—he was the Sea Emperor now.

His seat was arranged beside Helunen’s, with Sea Clan Warriors standing guard silently behind him.

Normally, guards weren’t allowed in such venues, but the Sea Clan Warriors had entered without protest, and no one objected—after all, this was Huinis’ inauguration. If the host didn’t protest, who were they to oppose? Besides, the Sea Emperor was so young—what was the harm in having an extra guard or two?

Still… many couldn’t help glancing between Luo Ci and Helunen, noticing an unusual closeness. Just what was their relationship?

Truthfully, many had seen the live footage of Helunen gently freeing the Sea Emperor from the tentacles. But since the attack had happened in the Federation, it was only natural for Marshal Helunen to intervene—especially when dealing with the Sea Emperor. Caution was expected, to avoid interspecies tensions.

So that scene alone didn’t explain much. But looking further back? They recalled the Sea Clan’s raid on Cygnus, where Marshal Helunen had also kept the Sea Emperor from the press.

And today, the Sea Emperor should’ve been carried by a Sea Clan Warrior, yet it was Marshal Helunen who held him… This went beyond mere duty—it was more like being happy to pamper the little lord.

One politician, unable to curb his curiosity, noticed the little mermaid eyeing up the sweets and seized the chance to offer a slice, striking up a conversation: "Your Majesty and the Marshal seem to have known each other for a long time?"

Luo Ci’s cheeks stuffed with food. Having been with Helunen since hatching, it was indeed a long time. He nodded matter-of-factly. "Yep!"

"Oh?" The politician handed him another piece, pressing eagerly, "And what is your relationship?"

"Big Brother's my… caretaker," Luo Ci mumbled, his mouth still full, swallowing slowly before answering.

The politician, emboldened, wanted to ask more when a sudden chill washed over him. Meeting Helunen’s gaze—just a brief glance—he felt an unprecedented weight.

A cold sweat broke out. He shrank into himself and said no more.

Luo Ci tilted his head, puzzled. He sensed the man had more to say but didn’t understand why he stopped.

But his focus never lasted long, and soon he was engrossed in the desserts again.

This really felt like a tea party…

An endless array of sweets flowed like a banquet, different from Azure Cluster’s style—much sweeter. His favorite was the citrus-baked scallops, tangy and sweet, popping them one after another until his cheeks stayed constantly full.

The politicians finally understood: So this was who all the desserts were for.

Unaware that the live broadcast was running, Luo Ci didn’t realize the galactic audience was already losing their minds. Viewers had been waiting eagerly, and now they finally grasped why Huinis and the Cygnus Governor had both used the word "adorable." The high-definition stream captured every detail—the little mermaid’s long, curled lashes, his plump, soft cheeks, the way his pupils dilated slightly when tasting something delicious… It was all impossibly adorable.

The live chat had keyword restrictions, keeping comments relatively tame.

But other platforms blew up with chatter.

People were first stunned that the Sea Emperor was a child. Even those who’d came in skeptical found themselves melting.

[He’s so tiny! Those big, round eyes—my heart’s melting.]

[I’m floored—the Sea Clan’s been hiding this little treasure?!]

[I used to wonder why they kept him hidden away, but now I get it. If I had such an adorable baby at home, I’d hide him too! Who wouldn’t fear someone stealing him away?!]

[I wanna squeeze that plush little tail…]

[Ugh, the official stream’s harsh. I just said I wanted to cuddle the Little Fish, and they banned me.]

...

They all cooed helplessly at their screens.

Among the viewers were renowned science bloggers who usually focused on biology and ecology. After cross-referencing data, one released a video analyzing the Sea Emperor’s species—confirming he was a mermaid.

...A mermaid?

The video went viral, amassing hundreds of millions of views, yet viewers still froze in disbelief. Mermaids were infamous across the galaxy for their ferocity… yet the Sea Emperor was pure sweetness.

As ancient mythical beings, mermaids had always been hailed as the most beautiful creatures.

Their young were especially doll-like, soft and delicate. Now, people understood—no wonder earlier footage was taken down. The little mermaid was ten times cuter in person, instantly captivating.

Hadn’t they seen how even the politicians couldn’t help baby-talking when speaking to him?!

The originally solemn inauguration ceremony had truly turned into a social gathering this time.

The politicians watched the little mermaid seriously focused on his desserts, feeling an inexplicably warm, fuzzy feeling in their hearts—like a soft little kitten, its big tail brushing against their heartstrings, making them eager to talk to the little mermaid. But with Helunen glaring daggers, they didn’t dare turn their heads, leaving them completely frustrated.

Luo Ci remained oblivious to the fact that all attention—both inside and outside the venue—is on him. His tail wriggled restlessly on the chair. The cushion was soft, but he still felt uncomfortable… Tugging at Helunen’s sleeve, he whispered a complaint, “The cushion’s bothering my tail…”

It wasn’t actually bothering him at all—he just wanted Helunen to hold him.

Helunen hadn’t expected him to last until the end anyway. The fact that he’d lasted this long was already a surprise. Raising a hand, he scooped up the little mermaid into his arms.

Luo Ci sneaked a glance upward, confirming that no one seemed to be paying attention to him, then curled his little tail contentedly and nestled into his familiar spot.

The two chairs might as well have been nonexistent.

Seeing the little mermaid seemingly dozing off, everyone in the room unconsciously lowered their voices.

The atmosphere was uncharacteristically harmonious.

This harmony lasted until the ceremony’s conclusion. Luo Ci only woke groggily at the sound of saluting cannons, his sleepy eyes blinking. “Mmm…?”

What’s going on…?

Is it over?

With great effort, Luo Ci lifted his fluffy little head, eyelids drooping heavily. One eye cracked open as he instinctively sought out Helunen, his small hand patting around until he confirmed a secure grip before relaxing.

Helunen had been speaking with Lord Huinis.

Noticing the little mermaid waking up, he cut the conversation short. “You woke up early.”

“…Huh?”

Luo Ci looked around in confusion, the whole mermaid completely confused. The ceremony was nearly over—how was this waking up early?

The Little Fish pouted indignantly at Helunen, pursing his lips dramatically, his plump pink lips pouting… Just what kind of image did he have in Helunen’s mind?

……

As the ceremony drew to a close, the conference hall began to empty.

Luo Ci buried his face against Helunen’s chest and yawned. The ceremony had been so dull.

He just wanted to go back.

His soft tail tip coiled around Helunen’s finger as he whispered.

“It wasn’t what I imagined… There wasn’t any double-dealing or treachery. Everyone seemed so peaceful…”

Helunen pinched his little cheek but said nothing.

This ceremony had indeed been unusually harmonious. In such an atmosphere, everyone seemed like one big, happy family—with only a very few sitting on pins and needles, such as the representative from Pia Planet.

He had once boasted about his courage, claiming that Lord Huinis lacked the backbone and boldness expected of a major planet’s leader, and that if he were in his place, he wouldn’t fear the Sea Clan.

Now, with the Sea Emperor right there, some politicians looking for fun egged him on: “Wasn’t Your Excellency the one with great courage? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is right before you—won’t you exchange a few words with the Sea Emperor?”

The Pia representative: “……”

He admitted he might have been too loud-mouthed before.

Helunen guarded the little mermaid far too fiercely. Anyone who tried to get close would immediately feel an oppressive aura that was no joke.

Besides, he had noticed the squishy blob clinging to the little mermaid’s chair—likely the same Deep-Sea Monster that, just a few days ago, had made the capital planet tremble with a single stomp. That thing could swallow an entire battleship in one bite. He doubted he’d even be enough to be a toothpick.

And yet, that terrifying beast now lay docilely on the ground.

Belly up, letting the little mermaid knead it as he pleased.

Its tentacles stretched out comfortably, beady eyes half-lidded in apparent bliss.

Recalling the planets that had once provoked the Sea Clan and mysteriously vanished… There was a good chance this thing had devoured them. He couldn’t help but shudder.

After witnessing the tragic fate of the space pirates, what planet would dare scheme against the Sea Clan now?

Hearing the other politicians mock him, he simply played dumb, pretending not to hear.

Better to be called shameless than to lose his life.

After bidding farewell to the others, Helunen carried the little mermaid in his arms and walked out.

Luo Ci rubbed his eyes belatedly—he hadn’t said goodbye to Lord Huinis. But then again, if Helunen was taking him out, he must have already handled the formalities. Reassured, he melted into a puddle of contentment in Helunen’s arms.

He assumed they were returning to the mansion on the floating island. To his surprise, Helunen brought him to the spaceport, where an unmarked private-looking starship awaited.

The butler, the steward, and the Sea Clan Warriors were already waiting, their luggage long prepared… Where were they setting off to?

Luo Ci thought slowly but couldn’t recall any scheduled trip.

*Thump, thump…*

At first, he thought it was his own heartbeat, but then realized it wasn’t. Perking his ears, he traced the sound to Helunen’s chest.

Strong, vigorous heartbeats pulsed through the fabric of his uniform, carrying a steady rhythm.

Luo Ci tugged at his sleeve. “Did you drink?”

“Mm,” Helunen loosened his collar slightly. “Does it smell strong?”

The little mermaid wriggled deeper into his embrace, sniffing left and right. A faint trace of alcohol mixed with Helunen’s woodsy aroma—not unpleasant at all, but mellow and deep, leaving him slightly dizzy.

His cheeks pink, he fiddled with his fingers and said, “Not too bad.”

Helunen still decided to take a shower aboard the starship. Then he heard the little mermaid ask, “Where are we going?”

“Where do you want to go?” Helunen countered.

The implication seemed to be that wherever he wanted to go, they could go.

Something felt off.

Luo Ci’s heart raced suddenly before calming again. Pouting, he randomly named a planet he’d seen in a travel brochure.

Helunen instructed the pilot to set the coordinates without batting an eye.

Luo Ci’s round eyes widened.

The little mermaid tilted his face up, making it appear even smaller from this angle—like an exquisitely crafted porcelain doll, adorned with a pair of crystal-clear eyes. Every time those eyes looked at him, Helunen found it impossible to refuse anything.

Luo Ci hesitated. “But what about your duties? Aren’t you handling them?”

Helunen glanced down at him and, for some reason, suddenly smiled. “Mm,” he replied softly.