Chapter 51

Chapter 51

White Tiger Star Sector, White Flame Legion Headquarters.

The spacious and vast conference room was filled with officers of varying ranks seated along both sides of the long table.

The meeting, halfway through, had been abruptly halted moments ago. In the hushed atmosphere, all eyes were fixed on Shen Yanfeng at the center.

After receiving several sudden messages, he had frozen completely still, as if a pause button had been pressed.

Silence. A prolonged silence.

No one knew what had happened.

Shen Yanfeng’s unusually subtle reaction made others hesitant to disturb him, and the atmosphere in the conference room grew increasingly tense.

What major event could cause Marshal Shen to lose his composure like this during a meeting?

After what felt like an eternity, Shen Yanfeng finally came back to himself: "Where were we just now?"

A general-grade officer replied, "We were discussing the SR-4556 star sector."

Shen Yanfeng nodded. If one listened carefully, they might notice a slight strain in his voice: "I’m aware of the specific details. Proceed according to the previous arrangements. As for other matters that need reporting… have Han Yuan compile them. I’ll find time to review them after they’ve been compiled."

Han Yuan was Marshal Shen Yanfeng’s adjutant. Such an instruction clearly signaled his intention to end today's meeting.

Shen Yanfeng had always been responsible in his duties and had never missed an internal meeting of the White Flame Legion. His behavior was so uncharacteristic that someone finally spoke up: "Marshal Shen, has something happened?"

"There are some personal matters I need to attend to," Shen Yanfeng took a deep breath and stood up from his seat. "Let’s end today’s meeting here. Thank you all for making the long journey to report at headquarters. Han Yuan, I’ll leave the remaining matters to you."

Han Yuan responded, "Understood."

Shen Yanfeng nodded and, under the watchful eyes of everyone, left the conference hall.

As his figure vanished around the corner, the remaining officers began to whisper among themselves.

"What exactly happened?"

"I don’t know. I’ve never seen Marshal Shen like this before."

"Marshal Shen said it’s personal, but if I recall correctly, he’s the last of his family."

"Did he fall in love?"

"Don’t talk nonsense! Marshal Shen knows what's important. Even if he did fall in love, how could it be more important than work?"

Shen Yanfeng seemed oblivious to these discussions as he strode briskly back to his office at the deepest part of the top floor. Only when he closed the door did he notice that his hand holding the micro-terminal was still trembling uncontrollably.

He couldn’t afford to completely lose his composure in the conference room earlier. Now alone, he slowly let out a breath and opened the message he had just received again.

The message sent by Huo Mingyue contained no text, only a few photos taken on-site.

Although the distance they were taken from was far, just a glance was enough for him to instantly recognize that somewhat blurry figure—it was his marshal.

Ever since that transition accident years ago, Shen Yanfeng had risen to the position of marshal of the White Flame Legion despite everyone’s doubts. Gradually, he used his abilities to erase all doubts and became the universally recognized "Marshal Shen."

But only Shen Yanfeng himself knew that the most important meaning behind working diligently to maintain the glory of the White Flame Legion was this—so that when that person returned, he wouldn’t see a declining White Flame Legion and wouldn’t be disappointed that he hadn't protected the White Army.

His gaze locked on the photos, Shen Yanfeng’s mind wandered back to a time long ago.

"Little Shen, why won’t His Majesty let me retire? What if I use this vacation to secretly hide somewhere? Wouldn’t that mean I’ve transferred the legion to you? I’ve always trusted your work. You must lead it well, understand?"

"Marshal Bai, you must be joking. I’m not capable of taking your position! But I’ll do my best to guard the White Flame Legion. When you’ve rested well and returned, I’ll make sure to return it to you exactly as it was."

"...You’re good in every way, but you’re too hardheaded. Why are you so rigid? Ah, forget it. I need to board the ship now. No need to see me off—get back to work!"

"Alright, Marshal Bai. Have a safe journey!"

...

Even after so many years, the scene of their farewell at the starport remained clear in his memory.

Although he knew that survival was almost impossible in a transition accident, whenever he recalled that conversation, Shen Yanfeng would tell himself that maybe the marshal had really found a place to hide.

In the past, he had rationally accepted this self-deceiving comfort. But now, all those fantasies seemed to have become reality.

The marshal was alive!

A knock sounded on the office door. Han Yuan’s voice came from outside: "Marshal Shen, it’s me."

Shen Yanfeng returned to the present, finally withdrawing his gaze from the photos and closing the virtual screen. "Come in."

Han Yuan pushed the door open and entered. When he saw Shen Yanfeng’s expression, he was clearly surprised and asked hesitantly, "What… what exactly happened?"

"Nothing," Shen Yanfeng rubbed his temples and, after a moment of silence, said, "Please prepare things for me. I need to go to the SW-553 star domain."

"The SW-553 star domain?" Han Yuan thought for a long time but still had no recollection of that designation. "Did something major happen there?"

"This is a personal journey, unrelated to legion affairs."

At this point, Shen Yanfeng recalled the cadet uniform he had seen in the photos. After a brief silence, he added, "There’s no need to arrange for military escort. Keep it light."

Although he didn’t understand, Han Yuan nodded. "Understood!"

After Han Yuan left, Shen Yanfeng took out his micro-terminal and sent a message to Huo Mingyue: [I will arrive at the Nawei Military Region in a few days. Until then, continue your normal duties. Do not raise any suspicion.]

[Received! I will definitely not blow my cover in front of Marshal Bai!!!!!!!!]

Shen Yanfeng: "..."

Although Huo Mingyue’s response was serious and proper, the series of exclamation points at the end felt somewhat unsettling.

Just as Shen Yanfeng was considering whether to give further instructions, Huo Mingyue sent a new message.

[Marshal Shen, there’s one more thing.]

[When I returned, I noticed that both the Red Army and the Green Army are collecting cadet information. Could they have discovered something?]

Shen Yanfeng frowned slightly.

Behind the Red Army and the Green Army were Marshals Chi Yan and Qing Yileng.

Shen Yanfeng: [Monitor the situation. Inform me immediately if there are any new developments.]

Huo Mingyue: [Received!]

*

Bai Luming lay on his dormitory bed, unable to sleep for a long time.

All he could think was that the earlier use of "you" (as a formal 'you') had been far too impactful, forcing him to seriously reflect on it.

It made no sense. He clearly remembered that after approving Huo Mingyue's transfer application, he had no further interaction with this outstanding junior officer. When exactly did he leave such an impression that he got recognized like this?

But then again, even if they had met once before, it shouldn't have been an instant identification like this, right? Taking a step back, do all talents in the White Flame Legion have to possess such exceptional memory? Can't they have some common conditions like face blindness?

When He Yilan emerged from the bathroom, he immediately noticed Bai Luming gazing at the starry sky with a bright yet sorrowful profile.

He sympathized with this predicament, so he gently wiped his damp hair and let a sympathetic smile curl at the corner of his lips.

Feeling the bed dip slightly, Bai Luming turned his head and saw He Yilan wearing that utterly punch-worthy expression: "..."

After a moment of silence, he sincerely suggested, "Expression control is an advanced discipline. I recommend you take some time to learn it. Mastering it might help you live a little longer."

"Yeah, I'll definitely learn it when I have time."

He Yilan showed enough humility but didn't seem inclined to adjust his expression. "So, what's the plan now?"

Bai Luming raised his hands and casually rested them behind his head, closing his eyes to avoid the sight. "What plan?"

He Yilan replied, "If you're thinking of breaking out, I'll join you."

Bai Luming cracked an eye open to look at him. "Risking your life to accompany me? How generous."

He Yilan responded, "Well, the outcome of not risking my life would be the same—being dragged down anyway."

Bai Luming finally opened his eyes fully, pondering the subtle yet detectable resentment in those words, and surprisingly laughed despite the situation. "Quite self-aware, Mr. He."

"It's you I'm aware of," He Yilan said indifferently. "After all, when good things happen, you might not remember me, but when trouble comes, you never forget to include me."

Bai Luming nodded. "Touched? Isn't it just keeping you close to my heart, sharing both glory and disgrace?"

He Yilan replied, "So moved I could cry."

"Then save your tears." Distracted by the banter, Bai Luming lost interest in dwelling on Huo Mingyue. He pulled the blanket over himself with swift motion.

Seeing him ready to sleep, He Yilan asked, "Sure you don't want to break out?"

If the previous remark sounded more like teasing, this question clearly carried no hint of jest.

Bai Luming shook his head again. "No need. It hasn't come to that. Not necessary."

Bai Luming could tell He Yilan was serious, and if they went through with it, this man could indeed arrange an escape route flawlessly.

But judging from Huo Mingyue's reaction, it seemed the message about his presence here had already been relayed to Shen Yanfeng. Unless something unexpected happens, Marshal Shen was likely already on his way here.

Back then, Bai Luming had used the jump accident to completely extract himself from the military, appearing to leave with nothing. But if there was anyone he felt he owed, it was undoubtedly his former vice commander.

Although he hadn't paid much attention to military affairs over the years, from media coverage and neighbors' idle chatter, he could imagine how suddenly Shen Yanfeng had taken over the White Flame Legion and the tremendous obstacles he must have faced.

Maintaining the White Flame Legion's glory and securing his position firmly in the military couldn't be casually summarized in a few reports—the hardships were far beyond description.

Since his former deputy already knew he was here, he should meet him.

When it came to facing things, Bai Luming was never the type to irresponsibly avoid them. Whatever happened next would be dealt with when the time came.

Anyway, no matter how things unfolded, he'd meet it head-on.

There was one more thing: earlier, he really wasn't just being polite with He Yilan.

Their situations were fundamentally different. Whether exposed or targeted, the head of Zhong Sheng Machinery could shed his false identity after leaving here and continue to prosper.

But him? He was just an ordinary citizen with empty pockets. He still had to make a living after getting out. If he ended up on the watchlist for draft evasion, life would be tough.

He Yilan: "Really not? What about using Xiao Yan?"

When he heard the question for the third time, Bai Luming finally couldn't help asking, "Why does it feel like you're looking forward to this? Anyone hearing you would think you're running away with me, not breaking out. You're just seeking chaos, aren't you?"

"I'm not seeking chaos. I just want to give you more options."

He Yilan stared intently at Bai Luming, all traces of laughter gone from his face. His deep gaze locked with Bai Luming's sight, and in that moment, he was clearly the Mr. He who held sway at Zhong Sheng Machinery. "Planet 6616 isn't your only way out. If you don't want to engage too much with certain groups, you have another choice—come back with me."

Come back with me.

Bai Luming's teasing expression faltered slightly under He Yilan's gaze, and his visible emotions gradually receded.

For a moment, their eyes remained locked, neither speaking.

Since they'd met, many things had happened, and much was left unspoken between them.

He had never mentioned He Yilan's true identity, and He Yilan had never exposed his origins. In a way, they'd mutually understood without speaking.

But now, He Yilan's seemingly casual remark had bluntly pierced that veil.

It was as if he was reminding Bai Luming that the person before him had guessed his background, knew his past, and understood what he wanted.

They could speak openly and honestly.

After a long while, Bai Luming softly replied, "Yeah, I understand what you mean."

He sat up from the head of the bed, bringing himself within inches of He Yilan. In the other's deep eyes, he saw his own reflection. Locked in that gaze, a smile touched his lips. "When I need a way out, I'll definitely remember to come to you."

He Yilan didn't avoid the stare. "Good. I'll be waiting."

Bai Luming didn't feel much when he said it, but after He Yilan's response, he faintly sensed that the atmosphere in the room had subtly shifted—it felt somewhat ambiguous.

He Yilan's eyes were deep, and under such an unreserved gaze, Bai Luming felt a faint heat rising through his body.

Lowering his eyes, he cleared his throat quietly. "It's late. Let's sleep."

He didn't know how long it would take Shen Yanfeng to get here, but one thing was certain: tomorrow at assembly, the training grounds would be quite lively.

With representatives from the Four Great Armies coming for guidance, there had to be a "guidance" process. After tonight, which training ground Huo Mingyue would choose was readily apparent.

As for the sudden twists and turns of the day, Bai Luming now had only one thing to say—worn out. Let it be what it may!