Chapter 34 Sample

Chapter 34 The Sample

It was already very late. Lin Juangui had assumed Mu Zhang would leave immediately after the banquet, but to his surprise, Mu Zhang intended to stay the night at his place.

"What, do you think I’m disturbing your peace?" The Alpha's expression was somewhat dark, a smirk playing on his lips.

Mu Zhang knew perfectly well that ever since Lin Juangui arrived at this villa, he had personally overseen many arrangements, clearly intending a long-term stay. However, with the semester ending in just over a month, Lin Juangui couldn't possibly remain on Yungang Star indefinitely. Was he planning to stay here for good?

Lin Juangui was simply caught off guard. Had he known Mu Zhang would be staying, he would have prepared in advance, rather than having to scramble to get a room tidied up now.

The Omega offered an understanding smile. "How could that be? I just worry you might not be comfortable. Besides, I know you’re only coming here out of obligation, not wanting others to say our relationship is strained. I understand completely."

Without Mu Zhang needing to offer any excuses, Lin Juangui had already "thoughtfully" completed the narrative for him.

Mu Zhang opened his mouth as if to speak, but in the end, he merely turned away in silence and instructed a servant to prepare his bath.

Lin Juangui found it a bit strange. Mu Zhang was acting unusually today. Logically, he should have retorted with a few sharp remarks, so why was he ignoring Lin Juangui now?

But Lin Juangui was also tired. He didn't have the energy to ponder it further. After a quick bath, he collapsed into bed and fell asleep. The next morning, he woke to find that Mu Zhang had left before dawn.

It seemed Mu Zhang truly disliked this villa—he wasn't even willing to stay a moment longer.

But that was just as well, saving Lin Juangui the trouble of entertaining him.

After breakfast, Lin Juangui called Zhuang Xi, recited the artifact ID numbers Liang Shanyue had given him, and expressed his hope that those artifacts could be arranged for the same auction.

Zhuang Xi agreed. He knew Lin Juangui needed this information to leverage favors, but the appraised prices of those artifacts were quite high. Grouping them all into one auction might attract even more scrutiny.

"An auction always needs a bit of a spectacle; it can't just proceed quietly and unnoticed."

Such public charity events naturally benefited from being as high-profile as possible. Wealthy individuals needed this kind of reputation to enhance their social standing.

Since Lin Juangui had spoken, Zhuang Xi naturally had no objections. Lin Juangui always effortlessly dispelled his lingering concerns.

"How have things been at school lately? Every move you make is under close attention now." With the serious matters concluded, Zhuang Xi began to tease Lin Juangui.

Lin Juangui chuckled. "Everything’s proceeding as planned. Fortunately, most of the courses interest me; otherwise, it would be like reading an indecipherable text."

Zhuang Xi sighed with emotion. "It’s good that you can immerse yourself in your studies. Back in college, I was too busy scheming with my roommates—there were countless hidden agendas. I've pretty much forgotten my major courses by now."

"That hasn't stopped you from rising through the ranks, Brother Zhuang. But I'm not living in the dorms, which certainly cuts down on potential trouble."

Zhuang Xi was delighted by Lin Juangui’s flattery. "You're still as smooth-tongued as ever. Alright, I'll get back to work now."

"Sure, goodbye, Brother Zhuang."

After hanging up, Lin Juangui sent a message to Rong Rui, asking if he was busy lately. Rong Rui quickly replied: "Thanks to you, the exploration team might need to expand."

Because Lin Juangui had generously displayed the documents provided by Rong Rui’s exploration team during the press conference, sharp-eyed individuals had noticed the team’s logo in the bottom left corner and began investigating which exploration team it was.

Since the charity association and Lin Juangui’s side were keeping information under wraps like an iron barrel, reporters naturally sought other channels to learn more.

Rong Rui’s exploration team was not only highly talented but also exceptionally cohesive.

They followed Lin Juangui’s request to publish the documents discovered and deciphered on Bada Star, then stated that this was the final task the employer had required for this project. After that, they steadfastly refused to disclose any further information.

Rong Rui had his team encrypt and archive all holographic recordings related to Bada Star, setting passwords. After transmitting them to Lin Juangui, he deleted the backups to ensure no lingering concerns from their business with him.

Lin Juangui knew Rong Rui was efficient, so he particularly admired him and was willing to continue collaborating with him in the future.

When leaving the dining room, Lin Juangui asked the butler to prepare a car. He returned to the cloakroom and called Rong Rui. "I might have another task to trouble you with, Boss Rong. I’ve been on Yungang Star lately. I wonder if you have time to honor me with your company for a meal?"

"I appreciate the offer, but I’m truly swamped. Besides, Yungang Star isn’t my territory—everything’s inconvenient here. If there’s something you need, just say it directly. I’ll give you a special rate."

"Boss Rong is as straightforward as ever."

Compared to the passive cooperation between [Lin Juangui] and Rong Rui in the original storyline, the current Rong Rui received positive reinforcement from Lin Juangui. When Lin Juangui needed help, Rong Rui was willing to assist immediately, rather than overthinking potential unbearable consequences.

After explaining what he needed Rong Rui to do, Lin Juangui left him room to refuse. "Is it a bit difficult? It might take some time, right?"

Rong Rui knew Lin Juangui was giving him an out and laughed heartily over the phone. "You know what, you’ve come to the right person. I might not be able to do it myself, but my friend just might."

"Then I’ll wait patiently. Looking forward to your good news."

He took a denim jacket from the wardrobe, put it on, and slipped into a pair of white canvas shoes—still exuding a youthful, energetic vibe.

The butler asked Lin Juangui where he was going. Lin Juangui adjusted his glasses. "Alpha Training Base."

Whether he reported his whereabouts or not, they’d be relayed to Mu Zhang anyway. Rather than acting rebellious, it was better to leave Mu Zhang with the impression that he was proactively keeping him informed.

Not long after Lin Juangui left, the butler called Butler Yang. He looked worried, almost as if he feared the family’s Omega was stepping out and was concerned about being implicated.

Of course, ordinary people couldn’t enter the Alpha Training Base, but Lin Juangui, as a trainee's guarantor, could enter and observe the training firsthand.

Huo Zeshen had only been there for about a week. Lin Juangui wasn’t sure if he was adjusting well. Given Huo Zeshen’s reclusive tendencies at the orphanage, Lin Juangui was worried he might be bullied here too.

The Alpha Training Base on Yungang Star was vast. The spacious training grounds, rows of Alphas, and diverse training facilities were overwhelming. The moment Lin Juangui stepped inside, he was reminded of his unpleasant memories of college boot camp.

Due to Lin Juangui’s special status, the staff clearly treated him as a VIP, assigning a teacher to accompany him and walk him through the courses and daily schedules for the Alphas.

"Our approach is quite humane. We customize training based on the trainees’ physical conditions. Compared to the average Alpha, Huo is relatively slender. We’ll start by having him gain weight and do some adaptive exercises. Once his body catches up, he’ll join the group training."

Lin Juangui nodded repeatedly, his satisfaction evident. "The child is indeed quite thin. I’ve always worried he doesn’t eat properly. How is he getting along with the other trainees here?"

In essence, Lin Juangui was most concerned about Huo Zeshen’s interpersonal relationships. He was afraid Huo Zeshen’s past experiences of being targeted at the orphanage would affect his current state.

"Well…" The teacher hesitated, seemingly unsure how to explain.

From his expression, Lin Juangui understood—his worries had, unsurprisingly, come true.

"Huo doesn’t like to talk. Although he completes his daily tasks as assigned, he’s ultimately too withdrawn. Even when other trainees try to engage him, his responses are curt and cold, almost nonexistent. Over time, he often keeps to himself."

Lin Juangui took a deep breath. He knew Huo Zeshen’s current state resembled his own childhood. Changing it in a short time was nearly impossible—it would have to be a gradual process.

"As long as he can communicate normally with others, it’s fine if he doesn’t seek out friends. He can handle being alone. Still, I’d appreciate it if you could keep an eye on whether he’s being bullied. I’ve heard it’s common for Alphas to hash things out with their fists."

The teacher nodded, not denying the rumor. "Don’t worry, we pay close attention to the trainees’ mental health. Besides, among Alphas, many conflicts are resolved with a fight and then forgotten—no hard feelings. But we’ll intervene promptly to ensure things don’t get too out of hand."

"This training base really is professional." Lin Juangui smiled, somewhat relieved. "Take me to see Xiao Shen."

"Of course. He should be in the cafeteria right now. I’ll take you there."

According to the base’s muscle-building plan, Huo Zeshen now had to visit the cafeteria six times a day. His meals were prepared by robots and could be collected by scanning his ID card.

The food here couldn’t possibly be both visually appealing and delicious—it was mostly nutritional chow. Lin Juangui knew these dishes likely had little seasoning, and being able to swallow them all was a form of training in itself.

Huo Zeshen was indeed in the cafeteria, eating at a seat by the window. However, there was someone sitting across from him.

Lin Juangui's eyelids twitched slightly as he approached and recognized the person, then he smiled politely, his eyes crinkling, and said, "General Mu, I didn’t expect to see you here."

Mu Yuanqing’s expression visibly stiffened upon seeing Lin Juangui, but he quickly recovered his composure, stood up, and said, "Hello, I’ve long heard of Mr. Lin’s reputation."

The staff member found an excuse to leave temporarily. Lin Juangui sat down beside Huo Zeshen and asked how he was settling in and whether he was adjusting okay.

Huo Zeshen nodded with an "Mhm." Lin Juangui urged him to finish his meal before it got cold.

Seeing how familiar Lin Juangui and Huo Zeshen seemed, Mu Yuanqing said politely, "After I rescued the children from Planet Youlan, I heard that Mr. Lin took over. Thank you for looking after those children."

Lin Juangui smiled courteously. "It’s what I should do. After all, General Mu is Mu Zhang’s good friend. He definitely cares deeply about the people you saved. May I ask if General Mu is working at the training base or…?"

"I occasionally inspect training bases across different planets for talent scouting for the military. If Mr. Lin doesn’t mind, you can just call me by my given name."

Lin Juangui knew Mu Yuanqing was trying to build a closer relationship, but he still needed to play the part of someone who would later discover he was a replacement and claim the moral high ground. Becoming too familiar with Mu Yuanqing would make it hard to find excuses later, so he replied somewhat reservedly, "Would that be appropriate? If Mu Zhang finds out I’m calling you by your given name, it might be difficult to explain…"

Mu Yuanqing quickly realized his misstep and apologized, "I’m sorry, that was too forward of me."

A married Omega indeed needed to maintain some distance from other Alphas. Lin Juangui being cautious was not unreasonable.

This was Mu Yuanqing’s first time meeting Lin Juangui. Previously, when he saw Lin Juangui on the news expressing gratitude to his husband Mu Zhang, he had stared intently at Lin Juangui’s face, thinking how well-suited such an Omega was for Mu Zhang.

From then on, he would gradually fade from Mu Zhang’s life. This Omega was beautiful and kind-hearted. Mu Zhang hadn't married just to spite Mu Yuanqing—he had been genuinely moved by this Omega’s virtues.

Mu Yuanqing took a deep breath. He knew he shouldn’t feel anything beyond blessings, but where did this ache in his heart come from?

Lin Juangui told Mu Yuanqing it was alright and updated him on the current situation of the rescued children.

"Xiao Shen and Cai Yu both presented their secondary genders when they came of age. After Cai Yu presented as a Beta, he was sent to boarding school. As for Xiao Shen, the Alpha Association said his pheromone level was very high. I thought sending him to a regular military academy would be a waste, so I brought him here."

Others didn’t know what exactly Huo Zeshen’s relationship with Lin Juangui was, but regardless, doing so much for an unfamiliar child was extraordinary.

Mu Yuanqing sat up straighter, suddenly feeling ashamed of his jealousy toward this Omega.

"Thank you for working so hard for these children. It should have been my responsibility, but it ended up falling on your shoulders."

Lin Juangui shook his head. "It’s fine. Actually… it wasn’t without reason. Before marrying Mu Zhang, I was diagnosed with some physical limitations. Fortunately, Mu Zhang didn’t mind, so I wanted to make up for it in other ways. The children at the orphanage are all lovely. Every time I visit, they crowd around calling me 'big brother.' When I’m older, they might even call me 'uncle,' then later 'great-uncle,' or 'grandfather.' I find it a worthwhile effort, so General Mu, you don’t need to stand on ceremony with me."

Huo Zeshen paused mid-bite, and Mu Yuanqing looked surprised, but since health was a private matter, he didn’t pry.

"I’ll keep closer tabs on Huo from now on. I hope his abilities live up to your efforts."

Lin Juangui looked surprised but soon relaxed. "It seems soldiers and ordinary people really think differently. I just hope Xiao Shen can grow up safely, but General Huo seems to have high expectations for him."

Mu Yuanqing smiled, his back straight—a habit from years in the military.

"An Alpha like him needs more training to withstand hardships. 'When heaven is about to place great responsibility upon a man, it first tests his will.' Alphas survive through struggle and competition. Only then can they become excellent soldiers. It’s a necessary path."

"I understand."

As they spoke, Huo Zeshen finished his last bite. He stood up to return his tray, and Mu Yuanqing also rose to say goodbye. "I have some matters to attend to, so I should be going."

"Alright, safe travels, General Mu."

The brief exchange gave Lin Juangui a preliminary understanding of the protagonist shou's personality.

He certainly had the upright bearing of a soldier, but environment influences people. Even if he started with integrity, surviving in a complicated system required ruthlessness.

Still, Mu Yuanqing’s outward demeanor was deceptive. If not for what [Lin Juangui] had told him about Mu Yuanqing’s actions, based on this first impression, Lin Juangui would have classified him as one of the good guys.

Huo Zeshen got a cup of water from the drinking station and handed it to Lin Juangui. "Brother, are you thirsty?"

Lin Juangui took the cup and said, "Thank you." The two left the cafeteria together.

Though Lin Juangui wanted to ask what Mu Yuanqing had said to Huo Zeshen, he remembered his role as a gentle, understanding older brother in front of Huo Zeshen. Just as he curved his lips slightly, about to speak, Huo Zeshen said, "Before he came here, he visited Cai Yu. Cai Yu told him a lot about Planet Youlan, and he asked me what I remembered."

Lin Juangui frowned, confused. Was Mu Yuanqing investigating something?

Huo Zeshen observed Lin Juangui’s expression.

He had noticed Lin Juangui the moment he entered the cafeteria, but Mu Yuanqing was still speaking, so he didn’t interrupt.

When Lin Juangui sat beside him, Huo Zeshen felt inexplicably happy. He could almost smell the fragrance on Lin Juangui’s clothes, reminding him of Lin Juangui’s pheromone scent on the day he presented his secondary gender.

Though he listened to Mu Yuanqing and Lin Juangui’s conversation, his attention was entirely on Lin Juangui—he barely registered what he was eating.

"I told him I didn’t remember anything. Then he advised me to study hard at the training base and strive to enter a good military academy in the future."

Lin Juangui came back to himself. The biodegradable cup in his hand had been crushed at some point. He looked down, smiled, tossed it into a nearby trash can, then bent by a roadside faucet meant for Alphas to rinse off to wash his hands.

Huo Zeshen looked down at Lin Juangui’s face and suddenly asked, "Brother, don’t you like him?"

Otherwise, why would he have shown such a guarded, wary expression upon seeing Mu Yuanqing?

Huo Zeshen had sharp eyesight and noticed even the subtlest details. Though Lin Juangui hid his emotions well, Huo Zeshen could still easily sense the shift.

It was obvious who "he" referred to. Lin Juangui shook his head in denial. "No, of course not. He’s your benefactor. If you join the military in the future, you’ll be counting on General Mu to look out for you."

"I will."

Huo Zeshen took a pack of tissues from his pocket, pulled one out, and carefully wiped Lin Juangui’s hands.

Lin Juangui seemed used to such attention, only realizing afterward that Huo Zeshen had already finished drying his hands.

The situation felt awkward for Lin Juangui. He shouldn’t have such intimate contact with Huo Zeshen—it reminded him of too many hard-to-describe moments from the past.

He took a deep breath, pushing aside the troubling thoughts.

He had lied to Huo Zeshen, but this was the kind of polite fiction adults maintained. Lin Juangui’s private hope was that Huo Zeshen wouldn’t have to see these darker sides so soon.

But this child was growing up faster than he’d expected. Lin Juangui’s gaze unconsciously softened with a pang of tenderness.

Huo Zeshen smiled at Lin Juangui and asked how he was doing at his new school. Lin Juangui nodded. "Pretty well. The classes aren’t too hard for me. You’ll need to work hard too."

Seeing Lin Juangui’s playful expression, Huo Zeshen seemed pleased. "The teacher says it’ll take time. Brother, will you give me time?"

"Of course. I’ve already given you all my time." Lin Juangui’s eyes fell on the necklace hidden under Huo Zeshen’s clothes. Huo Zeshen felt an unparalleled sense of reassurance at Lin Juangui’s words.

He would give Lin Juangui all his time too.

-

Though he had left Lin Juangui’s villa early in the morning, Mu Zhang didn’t return to Sailin Star immediately.

He still had business to attend to on Yungang Star.

Mu Zhang’s business spanned the entire universe, and Yungang Star was no exception.

He hadn’t slept much the previous night, spending most of his time thinking about Lin Juangui's words.

The center of attention, Mu Zhang, particularly detested the feeling of being fawned over and flattered by those around him due to his family background, even from a young age.

He was naturally talented in everything he did, yet his achievements were often overshadowed by snide comments like, "With the resources he’s had since childhood, who could even compare?"

Later, after losing his parents, Mu Zhang left the Federal Central Planet and became a space pirate drifting through the cosmos. No longer bound by the name Mu Zhang, he thought he had escaped his past. Yet, not long after founding Tian Guang, he was recognized, and the shadows of his former life descended upon him once more.

Mu Zhang was no stranger to prejudice, nor had he led a life entirely free of hardship. So, when Lin Juangui spoke those words, Mu Zhang felt as though he had betrayed his past self.

Apart from being an Omega, Lin Juangui excelled in everything he did after marrying Mu Zhang. He consistently challenged Mu Zhang’s preconceptions in his own way, but this time, he seemed weary, which was why he spoke his mind so bluntly.

Mu Zhang began to question the root of his intense aversion to Omegas.

He despised weakness and the loss of self—so why had he projected that hatred onto all Omegas?

This question lingered in Mu Zhang’s mind until someone entered the reception room where he was seated.

Moments earlier, Mu Zhang had been sitting by the window, holding a wine glass and admiring the view of Cloud Harbor Star. The plush, thick carpet muffled all sound. Catching a familiar scent, he turned and saw Mu Yuanqing staring at him with a complex expression.

Mu Zhang’s face darkened completely.

Asking "why are you here" felt pointless. Mu Zhang stood up, personally poured a glass of wine, and handed it to him. "I didn’t expect we’d meet again. I thought you’d keep avoiding me."

Mu Yuanqing’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he accepted the glass, a trace of bitterness flashing in his eyes. "I wasn’t avoiding you. I just didn’t think you’d want to see me."

Mu Zhang gestured for Mu Yuanqing to take a seat in a nearby armchair but did not deny his words.

After being wounded by Mu Yuanqing’s cold and heartless remarks, Mu Zhang had indeed wanted nothing more to do with him. He knew he needed time to heal—after all, letting go of years of deep emotion was no easy task.

Yet, in many moments of solitude, Mu Yuanqing’s figure still involuntarily surfaced in his thoughts.

But what did it matter? He and Mu Yuanqing could never go back to how things were.

Both took a silent sip of wine, and a long stretch of quiet settled between them.

Mu Zhang was no longer as warm toward Mu Yuanqing as he used to be. He was restraining his habitual warmth, which made him come across as somewhat aloof.

Mu Yuanqing knew he couldn’t afford to cling to any lingering affection from Mu Zhang. Besides, he hadn’t come today to reminisce—he had more important matters to attend to.

"The project on Youlan Star has completely failed, but... some samples remain. They’ve asked me to discuss the next steps of our cooperation with you in detail. I’ll also be handling all future exchanges."