Apocalypse Gachapon Chapter 2030: You are very good
Previously on Apocalypse Gachapon...
Shi Yong and Ouchong’s eyes snapped open almost in unison.
A shared glance passed between them, a silent acknowledgment of the relief flooding through each other. They were, or at least so the Order Leader had declared, the crucial bargaining chips in the impending negotiation with the Su Race. Thus, they had to assimilate the ability imparted by their leader; a necessity they had just managed as their spacecraft hurtled towards the Survivor Fortress, the domain of the Su Race.
Turning their gaze to the hundred individuals arrayed behind them, Shi Yong and Ouchong observed the palpable excitement mirroring their own. The Assault Camp, they knew, was irrevocably transformed. It was evolving into a power… destined to become a significant force among the cosmic races!
One rotation of a celestial body later, the vessel dispatched by Jie Su to rendezvous with Ye Zhongming gracefully docked at the spaceport of the Survivor Fortress, the Su Race’s formidable stronghold.
…………………………
Jie Su found himself seated, his attention focused on a translucent beverage before him, which he sipped nonchalantly.
Across the expanse of the table sat another individual, partaking in a drink that bore an uncanny resemblance to a rich, crimson blood."While you hold the esteemed position of a direct descendant within the Su Race, possessing a succession rank that is far from insignificant, you must grasp the reality: barring unforeseen catastrophe, the reins of the Su Race’s future leadership will likely elude your grasp. A seat among the Elders might represent the zenith of your aspirations."
Jie Su listened intently, his composure unwavering, betraying no hint of emotion.
"It is undeniable that you have mastered the Silk Sea Light Array and wield it with considerable skill. Your performance on the Novice battlefield also showcased your latent potential. However, these accomplishments do not necessarily portend great things, given the relatively low caliber of your adversaries."
The man opposite offered a smile, his gaze fixed upon the silent Jie Su.
He tilted his head back, allowing a measure of the viscous, blood-like liquid to flow into his mouth, then resumed his scrutiny of Jie Su. "Furthermore, your youth is a considerable factor, as is the age of your Clan Leader. Your Elders, too, possess lifespans that stretch across many years. For you to ascend to the ranks of the most potent individuals within the Su Race, even under the most auspicious circumstances, would necessitate a considerable waiting period. Such a timeline, I must confess, tests my patience."Jie Su remained reticent, electing instead to drain the last of his drink. The cup, now empty, bore no trace of liquid.
The man’s eyes flickered towards the immaculate cup, a subtle smile gracing his lips.
"Twelve starcrafts, comprising four 'Tao Hai'-class transport vessels and eight 'Lov'-class frigates. The entirety of these assets alone—can the million Moonspan Gold you’ve pledged truly compensate for them? It barely covers a quarter of their actual worth."
"And this figure, mind you, does not even account for the substantial expenses I will incur to facilitate your continuous access to these flight routes," the man stated, crossing his arms. "You understand, of course, that to ensure the discretion of many, Moonspan Gold is the essential currency that persuades them to turn a blind eye."
"If your present offer represents the entirety of your proposed compensation, it is, regrettably, insufficient."
With his final declaration, the man consumed the remainder of the crimson fluid, indicating a clear intention to conclude the discourse for the day.A soft sigh escaped Jie Su’s lips as he shook his head in a gesture of self-deprecation before rising from his seat.
"Irrespective of the outcome, I extend my sincerest gratitude for dedicating your valuable time to this meeting."
He offered a respectful bow to the man, whose imposing presence felt akin to a colossal mountain, took his leave, and immediately began contemplating the delicate task of formulating an explanation for Ye Zhongming. His initial assumption had been a smoother path, but it was now painfully evident that he had overestimated his current standing.However, Jie Su did not succumb to despair. In his estimation, the success of this endeavor would be optimal; its failure, nonetheless, would still prove acceptable.
"You intend to abandon the endeavor so readily?" the man inquired abruptly.
Jie Su’s eyebrows lifted in surprise, his gaze settling on the man, a figure of considerable renown amongst the galaxy's super and major races. He appeared utterly perplexed by this sudden shift in demeanor.
"Did I, by any chance, indicate that I was amenable to your proposal?" the man countered with a chuckle.
"You…" Jie Su's eyes widened slightly, struggling to comprehend the man’s abrupt change in attitude.
"Take a seat," the man gestured with his chin towards the chair.
Jie Su complied, returning to his seat. In the presence of this influential figure, any semblance of personal arrogance felt utterly out of place."A young man, far too impatient."
A comely youth, positioned attentively behind the man, offered a subtle smile upon hearing this remark. He silently mused that Jie Su exhibited no impatience whatsoever; rather, it was the man himself who was speaking with undue haste.With a casual flick of his wrist, the man caused the cup to levitate from the table, drifting gracefully towards a nearby crystalline bottle.
The attendant youth promptly retrieved the cup, filled it with the enigmatic, blood-colored liquid, and presented it to his master."Many perceive your appearance on the Novice battlefield by intentionally suppressing your power as an act of recklessness, irresponsibility, impulsiveness, and emotional decision-making. However, this assessment is fundamentally inaccurate. You astutely capitalized on that very opportunity, ensuring your recognition among the cosmic races and, concurrently, instilling a renewed appreciation for your capabilities within the entire Su Race."
"Your standing within the Su Race has demonstrably improved since your return."
For the first time that day, Jie Su’s gaze met directly with that of the man before him."Ordinarily, to reach your current standing through sheer consistent effort would demand an additional five years."
Jie Su let his gaze fall, yet his body loosened considerably more than it had been.
The man observed him with approval and continued, "The stipulations you've presented to me: an initial sum of one million, followed by five hundred thousand annually for the duration of this endeavor. Upon its conclusion, the aircraft remain under my ownership."
"None of these specifics pique my interest, but the *means* by which you can offer such terms—that is what deeply captivates me."
"Multiple races lend their support to you!" the man declared with absolute conviction.
Jie Su offered a frank nod in agreement.
"To procure a million Moonspan Gold without disrupting a race's operational capacity, at least three or four of the less affluent races allied with your Su Race would be necessary. You, despite a comparatively modest succession rank, command the loyalty of no fewer than three or four distinct races. Such an individual, I believe, warrants an investment."
Jie Su lowered his head once more, but the man erupted in hearty laughter. "Too late, the revelation is already made. It appears to be even more than three or four. You truly are a surprise."
Having his subtlety exposed, Jie Su ceased any pretense of concealment and simply offered a tranquil smile.
Whether his hidden depths were perceived or not, whether by design or by chance, what real difference did it make?
"Furthermore, I am an individual drawn to the thrill of the unknown. Your desire for numerous aircraft, coupled with unrestricted, unmonitored flight permissions, sparks immense curiosity regarding your ultimate objective. While I shall refrain from inquiring, the urge to offer my support is undeniable. This constant sensation of seeking answers is, in itself, profoundly exhilarating."
The man guffawed once more, took another draught of the crimson liquid, then rose to his feet. "Truthfully, the preceding points hold only moderate significance. Your subtle stratagems, your fleeting curiosities, or the covert backing of those insular races—none of these truly capture my attention. My primary focus rests entirely upon *you* as an individual."
Approaching Jie Su, he placed a hand on the young man's shoulder and, with an uncharacteristic display of earnestness, stated, "Though I hail from a prominent race, I too find myself repelled by the methods employed by the major powers. The current state of the cosmic races is a direct consequence of these dominant factions' actions. If these seven Survivor Fortresses continue under their stewardship, any prospect of hope will inevitably wither. Occasionally, the emergence of fresh vitality is paramount."
"And you, Jie Su, are among that vital new wave," the man proclaimed, a smile gracing his features as he exited. "At forty years of age, boasting a Furelai exceeding fifty thousand."
"Jie Su, your capabilities are exceptional."