Chapter 75 What Do You Live For

Chapter 75: What to Live For

Lin Juangui could immediately analyze the purpose behind Mu Zhang's actions.

Risk-sharing.

If Mu Zhang alone held both power and wealth, he would definitely be targeted by many. He needed to delegate some of his holdings in order to gain more of what he wanted.

However, entrusting such a vast fortune to outsiders was clearly unwise. Mu Zhang had worked hard for many years to build it up, and he wasn't a particularly generous person. After much thought, he concluded that Lin Juangui was the safest bet, as Lin Juangui naturally had the capability.

Such a good opportunity was something Lin Juangui couldn't miss, but he first expressed concern about Mu Zhang's workload: "If you go to the Political Department, will you be very busy?"

Mu Zhang showed an apologetic expression, "Probably, but I'll try to come home early. Also, next month we might need to move. I plan to bring the cat from Sai Ling Star over so you won't be too bored."

The cat could easily get stressed during transport. Although the Colorful Cat is quite brave, it's already about five years old, and Lin Juangui didn't want it to go through too much hardship.

But Mu Zhang's comment suggested they would be settling down on the Federal Capital Star from now on. Lin Juangui nodded and said, "Okay. If it can make things easier for you and you trust me, I'm willing to do something for you."

Mu Zhang stepped forward and hugged Lin Juangui, feeling both grateful and touched. "Thank you for being willing to help me, as always over all these years."

Lin Juangui patted Mu Zhang's back. "It's the least I can do."

The Sky Light Fleet, as Mu Zhang's private military force, was formidable enough to make anyone cautious.

Now that he was leaving it behind to take up a position in the Political Department, it didn't mean he couldn't use it as a ladder to climb higher in the future. As Mu Zhang's partner, Lin Juangui would undoubtedly be tasked frequently.

But none of that mattered. Since Mu Zhang was willing to hand over that power, Lin Juangui accepted it with a clear conscience.

Not long after, Zheng Shi came over to show Lin Juangui the contract. At that time, Lin Juangui and Mu Zhang were still sitting on the sofa in the living room. Lin Juangui leaned on Mu Zhang's shoulder, slowly reading through the contract, while Mu Zhang smiled throughout, occasionally using his fingers to comb Lin Juangui's hair, his eyes full of obvious affection.

Zheng Shi watched quietly from the side, not daring to speak much, but he felt a pang of emotion.

It had been a long time since he had seen Lin Juangui. Zheng Shi knew about his injury and hospitalization, and had even heard that after waking up, he had completely forgotten everything from the past. So, seeing the current Lin Juangui nestling unresisting in Mu Zhang's arms, pointing at clauses and asking what they meant, stirred complex feelings in him that were hard to describe.

Mu Zhang had added a very important clause to the contract: if Lin Juangui initiated divorce from Mu Zhang, he would not only get nothing but would also have to compensate Mu Zhang a multiple of the equivalent amount in cash. The reverse was also true.

In other words, Mu Zhang, taking advantage of Lin Juangui's amnesia, was determined to make sure Lin Juangui could never leave him for the rest of his life.

Lin Juangui was still overwhelmed by the sheer number of Mu Zhang's assets. Rubbing his temples, he said, "I don't want to read anymore. I should have my lawyer look at this too."

Mu Zhang said soothingly, "Zheng Shi is right here. If there's anything you don't understand, just ask him directly."

Lin Juangui looked up with a troubled expression. "Suddenly I feel like I can't handle this mess. Can we scale it back?"

Mu Zhang had never seen Lin Juangui act so coyly. He smiled until his eyes narrowed. "There's no bargaining like this. You just need to give orders; many things don't require you to do them personally. Only your decisions are needed. You once said that I'm too rigid in handling things, I don't know how to be flexible, and you complement my shortcomings perfectly."

Lin Juangui continued flipping through the contract, while Mu Zhang occasionally fed him some fruit.

What a devious contract.

The most important assets in Mu Zhang's possession were listed in the contract, but contingent on Lin Juangui not divorcing Mu Zhang.

As long as he remained Mu Zhang's partner, Lin Juangui could do whatever he wanted. But after divorce, Mu Zhang could not only take everything back, but Lin Juangui would also have to pay him a hefty penalty.

When Lin Juangui scanned that clause, his expression remained neutral, as if it were of no consequence, but he was already starting to ponder what to do.

Actually, whether they divorced or not wasn't important. In Lin Juangui's view, as long as the two protagonists of this book met a bad ending, he would be satisfied. But now it seemed Mu Zhang was aiming for a higher goal. That person named Mu Yuanqing was no longer Mu Zhang's idealized first love; their emotional line had completely broken off, and the plotline was still connected due to the Sword Group.

Lin Juangui turned to the last page of the contract. He signed his name.

There was a solution to every problem, but refusing to sign the contract wasn't an option for Lin Juangui. He had to follow Mu Zhang's pace.

Mu Zhang was already pursuing greater power. As his partner, Lin Juangui could naturally benefit as well. Lin Juangui looked at Mu Zhang, who was secretly relieved, and gently touched his cheek with his cold hand: "Although I don't understand why you're doing many things this way, I will support you."

Zheng Shi stood up and said to Lin Juangui with a smile, "From now on, you are the owner of the Sky Light Fleet. You can give orders directly to Gu Mi. Mr. Mu, I'll be on my way now."

Mu Zhang waved his hand, and Zheng Shi withdrew as instructed. Mu Zhang took Lin Juangui's wrist and kissed it lightly: "Juangui, we'll be together forever, won't we?"

Lin Juangui didn't answer Mu Zhang. He just buried his head in Mu Zhang's shoulder, his expression calm and cold, but he still said, "As long as you promise to always treat me well."

"Of course."

Mu Zhang saw Lin Juangui's amnesia as a chance for a fresh start for both of them, but Lin Juangui seemed to have fallen back into the same old cycle.

Lin Juangui had always despised capitalists who exploited people for their last ounce of value. They only cared about their own interests, never concerning themselves with the lives of those under them.

After taking over Zhou Corporation, Lin Juangui had been rectifying the company's bad practices, succeeding in getting Zhou Corporation back on track, welcoming fresh blood to inject vitality. But the older generation felt Lin Juangui was messing around. They preferred using forceful methods to achieve their goals, which gave them a perverse sense of satisfaction. However, Lin Juangui's consistent belief was that he hoped everyone who cooperated with him could get what they wanted.

With different philosophies, disagreements naturally arose. If it weren't for Lin Juangui's ability and correct decisions, he might have been like a dog abandoned on the roadside.

Lin Juangui didn't like cleaning up messes, but he always seemed to attract such messes.

The Sky Light Fleet was a very large fleet, not only responsible for Mu Zhang's daily travels but also involved in many battles. The most advanced weapons under Mu Zhang's command were basically all equipped in the Sky Light Fleet.

Mu Zhang's future work focus would be on the Federal Capital Star. Lin Juangui helping him manage the fleet was just in name. Moreover, the fleet had different factions and beliefs; if Lin Juangui wanted to use it, he had to understand it.

While Lin Juangui was pondering these things, the Colorful Cat was also delivered from Sai Ling Star to the Federal Capital Star.

Smelling Lin Juangui's scent, the Colorful Cat clung to him without a second thought. Lin Juangui crouched down and rubbed its chin. Mu Zhang said beside him, "Let the cat play with you for a few days first. Once it relaxes, we can take it over there."

Whenever Mu Zhang made a move, it was grand. He bought an estate in a prime location on the Federal Capital Star, not far from the Political Department's office building, just a ten-minute hover car ride away.

The wheels rolled over a gravel-paved path. Even before the door opened, one could feel a serene and elegant atmosphere. Lin Juangui leaned out, his feet landing on soft moss and carefully selected bluestone slabs.

What lay before them wasn't the oppressive confinement of traditional high-walled courtyards but a clever use of borrowed scenery and partitions to create a contrast of strength and softness. Whether it was the expansive mirror-like water feature or the few ancient pines with rugged forms nearby, they could instantly calm the restlessness accumulated from long stays in the city.

The Colorful Cat nestled obediently in Lin Juangui's arms, completely unlike its usual playful and lively self at Luo Chen Manor.

"This place has been on auction for many years, but no one bought it. The price was high, after all, given the prime location. Some people thought it was too dilapidated, but I had it renovated for a long time. What do you think?"

Sure enough, a faint smile hung on Lin Juangui's face.

Moisture permeated the air, silently seeping into the lungs.

They walked across a stone bridge, beneath which clear water flowed with koi fish swimming leisurely. On both sides of the path were meticulously maintained miniature landscapes, creating a Zen-like atmosphere of borrowed scenery.

"Very special, it feels... both new and old."

Mu Zhang easily pushed open the heavy solid wood door. Large floor-to-ceiling windows brought the beauty of the courtyard and distant mountains indoors without reservation. The furniture was minimalist in style, with warm materials, adorned with a few antique-style pottery pieces and green plants.

Luo Chen Manor was the complete opposite in style. To precisely grasp Lin Juangui's preferences, Mu Zhang had put in great effort. He took Lin Juangui to the master bedroom, which had an equally elegant and comfortable arrangement, but the color tones were softer and less glaring.

By the window stood a comfortable reading lounge chair and a small bookshelf. Outside was a private hot spring bath, surrounded by natural rocks and emerald bamboo, shrouded in a faint mist.

"Knowing you like bathing, I specially had water diverted here."

The two stood by the floor-to-ceiling window. An unknown bird landed on a bamboo branch, chirping crisply a few times.

Lin Juangui felt an almost lazy relaxation. He placed his hand gently on the glass, and Mu Zhang placed his hand over Lin’s. Smiling tenderly at Lin Juangui, he said with a tone of promise, "From now on, this will be our home. Whenever you're tired, you can rest here—read, drink tea, soak in the hot spring, or simply gaze at the mountains and trees outside. I'll be here with you."

The fresh, earthy scent of greenery flowed quietly through the air. Had Lin Juangui not had someone else in his heart, he might have been moved by such a lavish yet thoughtful gesture.

Lin Juangui took a deep breath and accepted it generously. "Finding a place like this is truly rare. I won’t even ask how much you spent—after all, it’s not my money, so I won’t fuss."

Mu Zhang grinned and pulled him into an embrace. "Good—I’m glad you feel that way. I’d be delighted if you were even more extravagant—it gives me motivation."

After settling on the Federal Central Star, Lin Juangui found it much easier to handle his own affairs. However, Tian Guang did not approach the planet closely, so many of his arrangements were relayed through Gu Mi.

Gu Mi had an endearingly clueless demeanor about him—not particularly articulate, but highly efficient. Lin Juangui knew he was simply following Mu Zhang’s orders with unwavering obedience. He didn’t demand loyalty from Gu Mi, so long as they could cooperate smoothly.

One day, just after finishing a video conference with Gu Mi in his study, Lin Juangui was informed by the butler that Mr. Mu had returned. He stood up to greet him but waited for a long time without seeing anyone.

"Sir is going into rut. Please return to your bedroom, close the door, and let your pheromones flow."

The servants here had been transferred from Luochen Manor and were somewhat aware of the complicated dynamic between Lin Juangui and Mu Zhang. But Lin Juangui, having lost his memory, clearly didn’t know what to do when Mu Zhang was in rut.

Lin Juangui called Mu Zhang on his communicator, and the call was quickly answered. He asked why Mu Zhang hadn’t come to him during his rut. Mu Zhang laughed hoarsely, "During rut, I can’t help releasing pheromones—it would make you uncomfortable. So, I had a room built below yours. Your pheromones will drift down."

"..."

Lin Juangui didn’t know what to say. He silently returned to his bedroom, removed his inhibitor patch, and sat on the soft chair by the bed. He asked Mu Zhang, "Was it like this between us before?"

Mu Zhang’s laughter carried a hint of bitterness. "Yes, this is the balance we struggled so hard to achieve."

"I’m sorry. If it weren’t for me—"

Lin Juangui’s words were quickly cut off by Mu Zhang. "It’s not your fault, Juangui. I’ve always known it was me who forced things."

But they were bound together by contract, just as Mu Zhang had always hoped. So long as Lin Juangui didn’t leave him, he could find ways to compromise and resolve these minor issues in their lives.

After hanging up, Lin Juangui’s dazed and worried expression was clearly displayed on the wall of monitors in the basement. The mood monitor synced to Mu Zhang further confirmed how upset Lin Juangui was at that moment.

Mu Zhang let out a long sigh, as if he had finally gotten what he wanted. Breathing in the pheromones Lin Juangui provided, he fell into a deep sleep.

Time flew by. Three years later, the Federation remained as it always had—constant border conflicts on various scales, and those who controlled most resources on each planet continued to live extravagant, decadent lives.

To outsiders, it seemed that after recovering from his illness, Lin Juangui had become a figurehead, rarely appearing in public. But now possessing most of the Federation’s wealth, he no longer needed to engage in flattering or exhausting work.

His daily routine mostly involved playing with his cat, meeting friends, handling about two hours of work in his study, and then sitting in the courtyard watching koi fish swim.

This was an ideal life for most people, yet Lin Juangui's eyelids drooped as he frowned faintly, as if somewhat unhappy.

[Lin Juangui] crouched by the stone bridge, touching water he couldn’t actually feel, his face also full of frustration.

What would the ending of this story be?

Mu Zhang had already established himself firmly in the Political Department, and Lin Juangui had further evolved Tian Guang into a weapon of war. Those lacking ambition were moved to less vital roles with a severance package before joining Lin Juangui’s conglomerate, while those eager to achieve more honed their skills for future opportunities.

In the eyes of many, this Alpha and Omega was already impeccable. In a few years, they might even take control of the entire Federation. But this would undoubtedly go against [Lin Juangui]’s wishes—how could he stand by and watch Mu Zhang ascend to another peak?!

So, lately, [Lin Juangui] had been constantly going on about how awful Mu Zhang had treated him in the past, to the point where Lin Juangui was growing weary of hearing it.

Lin Juangui sometimes wondered if his feelings for Huo Zeshen had faded with time.

He didn’t even need to go out of his way to gather information—Huo Zeshen had been promoted several times in just three years, now holding the position of commander of the Seventh Military District. These days, people addressed him as General Huo.

This General Huo had barely made it out of a battle-ravaged sector, then caught the attention and careful mentorship of several influential figures. Through his own sheer determination, he excelled in multiple campaigns within the Seventh Military District, demonstrating exceptional strategic command.

However, aside from his outstanding performance on the battlefield, his reputation in other areas was far from favorable.

Power grabs were just the beginning; his major moves to eliminate rivals drew widespread complaints. He was not particularly kind to others, often appearing cold and detached. There were even those who fled like rats at the mere mention of his name, leaving one to wonder what Huo Zeshen did to them.

While rumors from the outside cannot be fully trusted, Huo Zeshen had now become a stranger to Lin Juangui. The dream he once had upon arriving in this world—to live a good life alongside Huo Zeshen—now felt like nothing more than an illusion.

Lin Juangui began to ponder what he was truly living for.

That's just how people are: when financial needs are unmet, one strives to earn money; once clothed and fed, one starts contemplating the meaning of life and what one truly desires.

The vision had been constantly pushing hatred of Mu Zhang on Lin Juangui, explaining the reasons behind this resentment. Yet, Lin Juangui still didn’t quite understand.

Perhaps he had no way to find out, either.

The questions in Lin Juangui’s heart cannot be shared with anyone. He doesn’t belong in this world to begin with, and [Lin Juangui] had already told him everything he knew. Now, he wears a constantly miserable look, filled with heartbreak and helplessness over how things had turned out.

Mu Zhang remained as busy as ever, leaving early and returning late each day. Lin Juangui can barely even see him.

During breakfast, the butler would tell him Mu Zhang had already left for work. At night, Lin Juangui would hear faint noises, only to open his eyes and find Mu Zhang kissing his forehead. If Lin Juangui stirred awake, Mu Zhang would say, "Sorry for waking you."

Lin Juangui would blink and shake his head, saying it’s fine. "Not long ago, the family doctor said your stomach issues require more rest. With how tired you are every day, is your body holding up alright?"

Mu Zhang is already forty this year. He scheduled a special physical, and Lin Juangui saw the report. By normal standards, it looked fine—after all, people in the Federation can live up to over two hundred years, so Mu Zhang is still relatively young.

Lin Juangui’s concern brought a satisfied smile to Mu Zhang’s face. He gently stroked Lin Juangui’s hair, his eyes filled with boundless tenderness. "Lately, I've been establishing a new department, so there’s a lot to handle. I haven’t had time to spend with you. Once…"

Mu Zhang didn’t finish his sentence. He knew no one likes to be told to wait. Not wanting to disappoint Lin Juangui, he simply smiled and said, "If you’re feeling bored, find something fun to do. Staying at home all the time will make you feel stifled."

"Okay…"

Lin Juangui was never good at having fun. When Huo Zeshen was by his side, what he enjoyed most was simply being together. Huo Zeshen would busy himself in the kitchen while Lin Juangui sat on the counter, chatting and laughing with him, occasionally handing him things.

Such a life is hardly possible for Mu Zhang and Lin Juangui. Whenever they sit together, their conversations revolve around Federation politics, the Sky Light Fleet, or matters of the Sword Group. They feel more like business partners than lovers.

Ultimately, due to their pheromone incompatibility, Lin Juangui and Mu Zhang cannot be intimately close. At most, they hold hands or exchange cheek kisses. Anything beyond that makes Lin Juangui uncomfortable, and Mu Zhang can sense his unease.

These are things he cannot bring himself to ask Mu Zhang, knowing he would receive no answers.

Yet, these doubts accumulate over time, eventually becoming a heartache.

Lin Juangui knew this couldn’t continue, so he began thinking about what might be enjoyable for him.

In the end, following Huai Fu’s suggestion, he traveled to a planet named Pifeng.

This place has no ruling lord, nor does it have anything resembling daytime. It could be described as an even more decadent den of debauchery than the Federation’s capital planet. Pifeng is known for its numerous famous streets lined with all kinds of bars, where many come to drink their troubles away.

But what Pifeng is most famous for is its casinos. Otherwise, why would those feeling disheartened go to nearby bars to drink? It’s all part of an established business ecosystem.

"Have you been arguing with Mu Zhang lately? You don’t seem very happy."

After graduating, Huai Fu began managing the company alongside Huai Jun. There were many things he didn’t know, but Huai Jun patiently taught him step by step. Combined with Lin Juangui’s investment in the company, Huai Fu’s influence within the company grew, and there were no issues with anyone challenging his authority.

It was tough at first, but once he got the hang of it, Huai Fu began to enjoy himself. The knowledge that once seemed difficult to grasp in school gradually made sense through practice. Now, Huai Fu is a recognized figure in his circle.

In front of Lin Juangui, Huai Fu no longer displays the confusion and helplessness he had during university. He has become more confident and charismatic, much like his name suggests—a richly fragrant flower blooming.

"Maybe that's just how it is after being married awhile. He’s been so busy these past few years, and aside from playing with the cat and handling work, I haven’t had much else to enjoy at home. I’m glad you were willing to take me out to have some fun this time."

Huai Fu felt a bit embarrassed by this. "Not at all, just looking for some fun. I only dragged you along because I heard this place is exciting; otherwise, my brother would never have agreed to let me come."

Lin Juangui was both amused and exasperated. "So I'm your lucky charm, huh?"

Huai Fu grinned playfully, "You're more steady than I am."

The casinos on Pifengxing didn't have proper names, only a series of numbered codes.

This place was steaming with desire, and the lights and shadows were even more frenzied. Giant holographic projections intertwined in the air, displaying seductive advertisements and real-time odds. Deafening electronic sounds mixed with the crisp clinking of chips, creating a dizzying, disorienting wave of sound.

The air was thick with chaotic scents—perfume, smoke, and alcohol all mingled together, along with the restless pheromones of Alphas flowing freely.

Lin Juangui was dressed in casual, comfortable clothes, strolling around as leisurely as if he were in his own backyard. In contrast, Huai Fu had dressed up specifically to show off at the casino, wearing an eye-catching suit that made his face peach-blossom bright and his whole body shimmer with opulence.

The moment the two entered, they attracted quite a few glances. The excited screams of winners and the curses of losers intertwined. Huai Fu stretched his neck, looking around for a while before pointing to the most frenzied area—the dice tables—and saying, "It's rare for us to come out. Why don't we try our luck over there?"

Lin Juangui had originally come out to relax, but seeing how excited Huai Fu was, he didn't want to dampen his spirits. He smiled and nodded.

The two squeezed into the dice tables area and were immediately swept into an even noisier vortex.

Huai Fu had fairly good luck, winning a few small bets and getting so excited that his cheeks flushed red. Unintentionally, he caught the attention of a few tough-looking guys.

The leader of the group had a face full of rough features and a thick gold chain around his neck. He deliberately bumped hard into Huai Fu with his shoulder, causing Huai Fu to exclaim and drop the chips in his hand all over the floor.

"Hey, kid, watch where you're going?!" the gold-chain man accused, grabbing Huai Fu's slender wrist with such force that Huai Fu cried out in pain.

Huai Fu's face turned pale. He instinctively tried to break free, but the gold-chain man's companions closed in one by one, smirking maliciously.

An Omega being targeted by Alphas in such a chaotic setting was clearly dangerous, but most of the onlookers were just there for the spectacle. The casino security wouldn't intervene over such a minor scuffle.

"Let him go." A cool, clear voice pierced through the noise—quiet, yet strangely penetrating.

Lin Juangui had originally been sitting at a nearby bar, leisurely sipping a drink while the casino manager mixed drinks and was briefing him. He hadn't expected trouble to break out so suddenly.

The gold-chain man felt inexplicably irritated by the calm gaze but grew even more arrogant when he realized the other was also an Omega. "Oh? You're this kid's friend? He bumped into me and dirtied my limited-edition leather shoes! Pay up! A hundred thousand credits! If you're even a cent short, don't think you'll be leaving here standing!"