Chapter 78 Life-or-Death Question

Chapter 78: A Life-or-Death Question

Before the car could start, Lin Juangui's communicator suddenly rang. Liang Shanyue asked Lin Juangui where he'd run off to, as he hadn't been seen anywhere.

"I had someone tell Grandfather Liang that I still have some matters to handle, so I'm about to leave now."

Earlier at the banquet, Liang Shanyue had greeted Lin Juangui. He had originally wanted to say something more to Lin Juangui but was called away by his parents to discuss other matters. By the time he turned back, Lin Juangui was gone.

Liang Shanyue had waited for a while, thinking Lin Juangui would return, but when he didn't, he finally called him directly.

"I wanted to tell you in person—would you have time to give a speech at Yungang University's anniversary celebration? Many students are eager to see their outstanding alumnus in person."

Lin Juangui gave a light chuckle. "I’ll definitely participate in the anniversary event, but I'll have to decline the speech. I don’t want to appear in front of cameras."

Liang Shanyue seemed somewhat disappointed. "Alright. Ever since... that incident, you’ve kept a very low profile."

After the explosion, Lin Juangui spent a long time recuperating in the hospital. News about him was completely suppressed; even those who wanted to know couldn’t find out anything.

As Mu Zhang took power and Lin Juangui took over his business, the pair tacitly agreed to keep a low profile, rarely appearing in public.

Lin Juangui also gave Liang Shanyue a reason he couldn’t refute: "Mu Zhang is now holding a position in the Political Department, so I definitely shouldn't draw too much attention."

Speaking of Mu Zhang, Liang Shanyue’s attitude was surprisingly similar to Lin Juangui’s: "Don’t always do everything for Mu Zhang’s sake. Developing yourself is most important."

"Got it. Thanks for thinking of me."

After hanging up, Lin Juangui sent a message to Mu Zhang, asking if he had time to talk. Mu Zhang hadn't replied yet.

At that moment, Mu Zhang was meeting Mu Yuanqing at a teahouse. Mu Yuanqing presented a gift he'd prepared beforehand and wished Mu Zhang a happy birthday.

"Thank you."

Mu Zhang and Mu Yuanqing were the same age, but Mu Yuanqing was a few months younger. They rarely celebrated birthdays during their school days, only learning each other’s birthdays from medical records.

Even so, when they were on good terms, they would exchange gifts around their birthdays, and this year was no exception.

Mu Yuanqing still had his gentle demeanor. Mu Zhang seemed somewhat nostalgic. "In the blink of an eye, I’m forty already. Time flies."

Mu Zhang opened the gift box from Mu Yuanqing himself. Inside was an exquisite watch.

In this interstellar age, most people used neural interfaces, and such old-fashioned timepieces had been obsolete for years.

But Mu Yuanqing knew Mu Zhang liked them.

Back in school, Mu Zhang had set up a small workshop in his dormitory. He would take these watches apart and slowly reassemble them, enjoying the process immensely. When the second hand started moving again, he would smile with immense pride and satisfaction.

Mu Yuanqing smiled along with him. "Yes, so many years have passed."

Neither could have imagined their relationship would become what it is now—having let go of past love and hatred, becoming true old friends who understood each other.

Mu Zhang placed the watch back in the box and closed it. He poured Mu Yuanqing a cup of tea and, with a slight lift of his left hand, projected a window showing Lin Juangui’s emotion monitor on a holographic screen.

"His emotional peaks have been very stable these past two years. When he and Zhuang Xi encountered turbulence during their charity work, his emotions fluctuated sharply. There were also slight fluctuations during his heat, but not significant. I wonder..."

Mu Yuanqing understood Mu Zhang’s concern and explained, "People who undergo modification surgery, with specific training, can develop stronger mental power and more stable emotions. After all, the most important thing post-surgery is body coordination to achieve their goals. So don’t worry—this is normal."

Mu Zhang seemed relieved. He closed the emotion monitor, picked up his tea but didn’t drink immediately. "I feel like I can’t keep it hidden much longer. He’s very smart. At first, he trusted me and didn’t pursue it, but recently, when he went to Pifeng Star and had an incident, he had someone bring an Alpha to help with his heat. The person who went in happened to be Huo Zeshen."

Mu Yuanqing frowned, as if recalling Huo Zeshen’s schedule during that time. "Patrolling within the Seventh Military District’s jurisdiction is completely normal. Causing a disturbance by a gland explosion is a big deal; he would definitely need to understand the details."

"How is he lately?" Mu Zhang was clearly asking about Huo Zeshen.

Compared to a few years ago, Mu Yuanqing no longer seemed confident when mentioning Huo Zeshen. Instead, he slowly frowned, looking troubled.

Even without Mu Yuanqing saying it, Mu Zhang knew: Huo Zeshen was now a mere opportunist, willing to do anything for power. Most importantly, many soldiers were admirers of strength, and Huo Zeshen’s tactics had won him quite a few followers.

Mu Yuanqing sighed softly. "We rarely contact each other except for official matters. At his current rank, only Di Yanhe can get through to him. He has merits from frontline battles, is close to Liang Xiancheng, and after repeated tests and adjustments, who knows what Ultimate’s destructive power will be? If he eventually forces Di Yanhe out, given his prestige, he could become the next general."

"Hmph." Mu Zhang sneered, as if saying Huo Zeshen was delusional. "If he really reaches that position, it might be easier. I could grab him by the throat and make sure he never moves again."

Mu Yuanqing knew Mu Zhang’s dislike for Huo Zeshen wasn’t just because of Lin Juangui. He advised Mu Zhang not to rush. "For now, we should watch Sword Group’s next move. Mr. Lin has a good relationship with Liang Yu. If we can resolve this behind the scenes, it’s best not to bring it to the surface."

At this, Mu Zhang put down his tea cup again, massaged his temple and sighed helplessly. "Liang Yu also has ulterior motives."

Liang Yu wasn’t as blunt as Huo Zeshen. When facing Lin Juangui, he always acted with disgust and apprehension. Wasn’t this attitude familiar to Mu Zhang? He used to treat Lin Juangui the same way, and in the end, he was still won over by Lin Juangui.

Sometimes Mu Zhang felt this was heaven’s punishment for him. He accepted it calmly and resignedly, but he just didn't know when this punishment would end.

"Mr. Lin is reasonable. He knows who treats him well. Don’t be too paranoid."

Mu Yuanqing was very familiar with Mu Zhang’s marital situation and often advised him this way, hoping Mu Zhang wouldn’t act impulsively and push Lin Juangui further away, only to regret it later.

Mu Zhang’s smile turned bitter. "Yes, I know."

Just then, Lin Juangui’s message came through. Mu Zhang thanked Mu Yuanqing again for the gift, and they went their separate ways.

After getting into the car, Mu Zhang called Lin Juangui back. His voice was filled with laughter as he asked how things went at Grandfather Liang’s birthday banquet.

"It was fine. Grandfather Liang had many people around him. Big families always have plenty of descendants."

Mu Zhang smiled without speaking. He actually wanted to ask if Lin Juangui had seen Huo Zeshen, what he thought of him, and if he remembered him. But he knew asking would make Lin Juangui suspicious, so he held back. Instead, he asked if Lin Juangui had considered keeping other small animals.

"I remember you and Zhuang Xi went to a charity event for stray animals. Haven’t you thought about adopting some interesting little ones?"

Lin Juangui’s underdeveloped womb. He had long accepted the regret of being an Omega who couldn’t bear children. He had discussed this with Mu Zhang before losing his memory, so if Lin Juangui wanted to keep any animals, Mu Zhang would never stop him.

But Lin Juangui said it wasn’t necessary. "Wild birds and squirrels often come around near our home. Colorful Cat is very hostile towards them, always jumping around. I think... it’s best to let it be happy. I’ve spoken with the vet—its personality is more suited to being an only child."

Mu Zhang laughed. He knew Lin Juangui was caring. Every time he heard him making serious plans for Colorful Cat, he thought that if Lin Juangui could have children, he would raise them very well.

But Lin Juangui didn’t dwell on it. After some small talk, he said to Mu Zhang, "Liang Shanyue invited me to give a speech at Yungang University’s anniversary. I declined, but I should still attend the celebration, right? If you have time, shall we go visit Grandmother together?"

When Lin Juangui first learned he had completed another round of studies in this world and graduated successfully, he was surprised. He only knew he had excellent grades but had no memory of what he was like during school—looking back, he felt some regret.

As for Geng Xuelan, she was persistent about urging them to have children. Every time Lin Juangui visited her alone, he couldn’t avoid being "interrogated." She said even with an underdeveloped womb, he could undergo surgery. Lin Juangui found this troubling and often used Mu Zhang as an excuse.

Mu Zhang checked his schedule and said, "Okay. Tell me the specific time, and I’ll arrange it."

"Mu Zhang, do you regret it?" Lin Juangui was clearly asking about children.

Mu Zhang smiled dotingly and with understanding. "There’s nothing to regret. You’re so much younger than me—isn’t it the same if I pamper you like a child?"

Lin Juangui laughed and said Mu Zhang wasn’t serious. "If you don’t say it, outsiders can’t tell. At most, you’re just more mature than me."

They had discussed age many times and could even joke about it now.

"I’m satisfied as long as you don’t look down on me."

"Alright, I won't disturb your work anymore. I'll hang up now."

"Okay, be careful on your way back."

Compared to the relaxed atmosphere between Lin Juangui and Mu Zhang, Huo Zeshen's side was anything but peaceful.

In the interrogation room of the Seventh Military District, the moment the metal door slid open, a bone-deep chill seeped in.

Huo Zeshen stood before the one-way glass, his black military uniform sharply tailored like a blade, the general's stars on his epaulets gleaming sharply under the cold light. He lowered his gaze to review the files on his datapad, his expression calm to the point of indifference, as if the agonized screams from the interrogation room were merely background noise.

"General, he's been brought in," the adjutant reported in a low voice.

Huo Zeshen looked up, turning his gaze to the face of Xu Zhen, the Head of the Logistics and Equipment Department, who followed behind the adjutant. His eyes were like sharp blades scraping inch by inch across Xu Zhen's skin.

Xu Zhen's uniform was already soaked with cold sweat. He cautiously glanced at his subordinate in the interrogation room, now battered and bloodied, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white.

"Director Xu, I heard this man is one of your most capable subordinates," Huo Zeshen's voice was cold and clear, devoid of any emotion. "Three batches of military energy cores, two sets of stealth armor, and..."

His fingertip lightly swiped across the light screen, projecting transaction records. Huo Zeshen looked down at Xu Zhen with a scrutinizing gaze. "An S-grade psionic disruptor."

Xu Zhen's pupils constricted abruptly.

Huo Zeshen inclined his head slightly, using his leather-gloved hand to tap lightly on Xu Zhen's temple. The touch wasn't heavy, but it made Xu Zhen stiffen completely.

"Do you want to end up like him?" Huo Zeshen was clearly referring to the person in the interrogation room.

Xu Zhen's breathing quickened, cold sweat dripping down his face, but he remained defiant. "I... I don't know anything..."

"I see."

Huo Zeshen nodded, as if he actually believed Xu Zhen's words. He instructed the adjutant to take the person inside out and send him to the medical bay for treatment. Then, he gave Xu Zhen a chilling smile. "Director Xu, perhaps you're not yet familiar with my rules. Today, I'll let you experience them properly."

The bloodied person in the interrogation room was now Xu Zhen. Huo Zeshen deliberately wiped his hands, seemingly unfazed by the two drops of blood on his face as he listened to Xu Zhen speak.

"General Huo... I was just following orders... The Liang family did offer me benefits... but if I didn’t do it... my partner wouldn’t be able to keep working at the conglomerate..."

Huo Zeshen smirked. He put his leather gloves back on and slowly walked over to Xu Zhen, looking down at him. "You're lying."

Xu Zhen's lips trembled. He swallowed nervously, speaking rapidly as if to prove his honesty. "I... I have transaction records! It was Liang Yu himself who gave the order!"

Huo Zeshen stood with his back to the light, his imposing demeanor sending chills down one's spine. "I already obtained your evidence. It's fake. I'll give you one more chance—see if you want to take it."

Huo Zeshen was truly someone who could dispatch others without blinking. Xu Zhen took several deep breaths before stammering, "I... I really don’t know who it was! But I did it for the money! I didn’t mean to betray anyone... I just wanted to make some extra cash..."

Xu Zhen's partner had three children, and the cost of raising them was high. In his position in the logistics department, it was easy to skim off profits. After being persuaded by others, he gave in to temptation and carried it out effortlessly.

Huo Zeshen lowered his eyelashes, his thoughts unreadable. After a moment, he simply turned to the adjutant and said, "Record his statement. Handle it according to procedure."

Back in his office, Xu Zhen's confession was submitted simultaneously. The adjutant also quickly transferred Xu Zhen's recent movements and contact list to Huo Zeshen.

Diverting military supplies was, in fact, a common practice within the military. There were always those who took chances, hoping to make a big score, using their families as an excuse to justify their greed. They appeared selfless and justified, but in reality, if not caught, they would continue their wrongdoing indefinitely, never stopping.

Huo Zeshen was indeed ruthless, but no one in the military dared question his methods. This was why no one intervened or pleaded for mercy when he cracked down on smuggling.

Within just a few hours, the name "Tianguang" appeared before Huo Zeshen. His eyes darkened, and he took a deep breath before slowly exhaling, then sank into his chair and fell into a long silence.

Although the military had its own munitions factories in recent years, the demand from countless military district commanders and soldiers still exceeded supply. To repel invasions from other species, they had to procure additional supplies to ensure sufficient resources.

Tianguang was now under Lin Juangui's control, and all those munitions factories were placed under his management. Selling weapons and allowing them to be smuggled out of the military—what was his purpose in doing this?

Why would Liang Yu be dragged into this? Isn't it common knowledge that Huo Zeshen has a good relationship with the Liang family? How could he not know about the recent situation of the Liang family and believe such an obvious lie?

Just as Huo Zeshen was frowning, deep in thought, his comms device suddenly rang. The operator from the Seventh Military District informed him that Zhuang Xi, president of the Charity Association, requested a call with Huo Zeshen, and Huo Zeshen agreed.

Zhuang Xi and Huo Zeshen had crossed paths a few times before. Back when Huo Zeshen was still in the orphanage, Zhuang Xi had visited him several times, so Huo Zeshen was quite polite to him.

When Zhuang Xi mentioned a charity banquet next month, Huo Zeshen was about to turn it down immediately, but Zhuang Xi’s next words made him ponder for a long time.

"I’m going to invite Juangui as well. The Charity Association has been established for so many years—he'll definitely come. You haven't seen each other in years, haven't you? Haven’t you thought about talking to him about the old days?"

Back then, Huo Zeshen followed Lin Juangui around, calling him "brother" affectionately, and Zhuang Xi had seen it with his own eyes. The orphanage director had even mentioned more than once that Huo Zeshen only showed warmth and closeness when he was with Lin Juangui.

If not, it would say a lot about what kind of person Huo Zeshen is, and Zhuang Xi would no longer bother with him. But if Huo Zeshen still held some affection for Lin Juangui, Zhuang Xi hoped Lin Juangui could reel Huo Zeshen in and prevent him from falling into the abyss.

Huo Zeshen clearly didn’t understand Zhuang Xi’s intention, but it was indeed a rare opportunity, so he only said he would try to make time. Zhuang Xi laughed and agreed, then pushed his luck by asking if Huo Zeshen could give a speech at the event.

"If my schedule allows."

Huo Zeshen didn’t give a definite answer, but Zhuang Xi’s face broke into a smug smile.

After inviting Huo Zeshen, Zhuang Xi called Lin Juangui.

It took a while for Lin Juangui to answer, and Zhuang Xi instinctively frowned. "Where are you? Why is it so noisy?"

Lin Juangui was currently strolling through Yungang University, arm in arm with Mu Zhang. The area was filled with students in volunteer uniforms and guests attending the university anniversary celebration, making it pretty noisy.

"I’m at Yungang University. They’re holding the anniversary celebration these two days, and I’m here for the ceremony."

Zhuang Xi chuckled. "Perfect timing. I have a banquet to invite you to as well. You blew off the previous charity celebrations, but you can’t skip this year. I’ve invited many industry leaders and top students from universities. It would be embarrassing if you weren’t there—won’t you come and have my back?"

Lin Juangui asked Zhuang Xi for the specific time. He was in a good mood and agreed readily: "I know—it’s the Charity Association’s 300th anniversary, right? I’ll be there, don’t worry."

Mu Zhang, standing beside him, heard Lin Juangui’s words clearly. He smiled and asked, "What event is so important that it requires your presence?"

"It’s for the Charity Association. I’ve turned Zhuang Xi down for two years—if I skip it again, he’ll complain." Lin Juangui was very straightforward.

Mu Zhang, however, drew a quiet, sharp breath. He knew Zhuang Xi held a charity banquet every year to showcase the association’s achievements and invite children who had grown up in orphanages to share inspiring stories.

For the past two years, Mu Zhang had found excuses to keep Lin Juangui from attending. Huo Zeshen also seemed completely uninterested in such events and probably wouldn’t attend this year either.

Since Huo Zeshen showed no intention of approaching Lin Juangui at Liang Xiancheng’s birthday banquet, did that mean he had completely let go of Lin Juangui?

Mu Zhang put on a fake warm smile, playing the generous part, and told Lin Juangui not to overexert himself. "If you feel tired, come home early."

Lin Juangui nodded obediently. "You too. Home is more comfortable—don’t always sleep in the office."

Lin Juangui’s concern made Mu Zhang feel good. He smiled and gently stroked Lin Juangui’s forehead. "Alright, I’ll come home more often to keep you company."

The two stood in the central square of Yungang University. The afternoon sunlight filtered through the ancient clock tower, washing his silhouette in soft golden light.

Dressed in matching light-gray trench coats, they fit right into the scenery. Lin Juangui held onto Mu Zhang’s arm, his skin pale and smooth. Mu Zhang gently held Lin Juangui’s hand and smiled softly, about to say something when he noticed someone approaching.

"Juangui! You’re here too!" Huai Fu’s voice was clear and pleasant. He bounced over to Lin Juangui like a bunny, though his smile faded slightly when he noticed Mu Zhang, offering a curt greeting.

Huai Jun, carrying snacks Huai Fu had bought, hurried over behind him. He immediately noticed Mu Zhang and put on his business face.

"I didn’t expect Mr. Mu to accompany Juangui to the university anniversary."

Huai Jun was accustomed to calling him "Juangui," since Lin Juangui and Huai Fu were close friends, but Mu Zhang furrowed his brow slightly, turning to observe the delight in Lin Juangui's eyes upon seeing Huai Fu, and reluctantly engaged in conversation with Huai Jun. "Yes, I wasn’t comfortable with him coming alone."

Lin Juangui had already been whisked away by Huai Fu, chattering excitedly together, while Huai Jun’s expression remained an ambiguous half-smile, making Mu Zhang somewhat uneasy.

After Huai Fu and Huai Jun left, the smile never faded from Lin Juangui’s face; he had clearly enjoyed talking with Huai Fu.

"Just now, Huai Fu mentioned that we often walked this path because it’s closest to the library. He also said I was working myself to the bone to graduate early back then. It’s a pity… I don’t remember any of it."

Lin Juangui was subdued for just a moment before he smiled again at Mu Zhang. "Did you used to come to the university often to keep me company too?"

It was almost a trick question. Mu Zhang hesitated, not wanting to lie to Lin Juangui but also not wanting to see him upset.

Mu Zhang intertwined his fingers with Lin Juangui’s. "I made mistakes in the past, but thankfully you don’t hold it against me. I’m happy I can accompany you to the anniversary celebration this time—at least you’re willing to have me by your side."

It was a tactical retreat in the conversation. Lin Juangui gave a faint smile, unwilling to prolong the sentimental atmosphere. He glanced at the sky and remarked casually, "It feels like it’s getting late. If we don’t head to the nursing home soon, Grandmother will worry, right?"

"Alright, let’s go."

Neither spoke on the way to the nursing home. Lin Juangui leaned against the seat, eyes closed as he rested, while Mu Zhang worked on his Light Brain. They didn’t disturb each other.

Until a sudden gunshot rang out. The hovercar swerved violently, nearly careening out of control. Lin Juangui opened his eyes, and Mu Zhang quickly pulled him down into a protective position, shielding him as they sought cover.

The car continued sliding forward from momentum. Lin Juangui’s voice was calm. "Give me a weapon."

Mu Zhang pulled two guns from under the seat, expertly loaded them, and handed one to Lin Juangui. "Someone doesn’t want us leaving Yun'gang Star alive."

Lin Juangui smirked mockingly. "Then they won't get out alive either."