Shadows of the Deep Space Chapter 1672 - 535: Well-Intentioned Lie (5)

Su Ming viewed the battle recording, stunned like the others, particularly during the genetic lock release as he dashed in to finish off Argoloto. The Thunder Angel resembled a god coming down from the heavens, utterly invincible while crushing every enemy in its path.

"Wow, they have to be super wealthy to splurge on those premium ad slots."

Mia commented, filled with sincere wonder.

"That's normal."

Su Ming sipped from his wine glass and responded calmly.

"Master Mo Xiu is absolutely amazing, defeating Deputy Corps Commander Blood Fang·Kaisas, Argoloto Legion Commander of the Undead Legion, and two Royal Religious Order members single-handedly."

"How many suns is that worth?"

"No clue!"

"To me, Master Mo Xiu remains the top powerhouse!"

.....

Right then, the nearby table of diners, glued to the lively broadcast, buzzed with excited chatter.

Suddenly, a young woman at the adjacent table chimed in.

"I still think General Su Ming outshines him, and he's handsome on top of that!"

..

"Girl, you've got it wrong. Sure, General Su Ming edges out in pure skill, but overall, he can't match Master Mo Xiu!"

"Rubbish! Su Ming took on the Dark Star Empire and Heavenly Revelation Divine Country's two Legion Commanders, plus the Mechanical Sect Leader, all alone!"

"True enough, but he was just stalling them. He faced nonstop pressure throughout, whereas Master Mo Xiu powered through solo—that's a whole different level of fight!"

"Even so, I say General Su Ming is superior."

"Girl, you're not being fair. The Thunder Angel's specs crush the mecha General Su Ming pilots; the stats prove it!"

..

Su Ming observed their heated debate and shook his head helplessly.

Truth be told, they weren't wrong—the Thunder Angel's capabilities were exceptional.

Had he controlled the Thunder Angel versus Sakari and his crew, he wouldn't have ended up so worn out; he'd even feel assured of victory.

At such elite tiers, skill differences narrowed sharply. Wins hinged on instants, with raw power depending heavily on the mech.

"Who knew you'd be this famous—running into fans even in a place like this."

Mia grinned brightly at Su Ming.

"It's fine."

Su Ming answered, mood subdued, as he emptied a full bottle of wine in one gulp and cracked open the next.

Mia stared in shock at Su Ming draining the bottle so fast; was this man seriously about to drink like that?

"Teacher, cheers."

Su Ming filled his glass, toasted Mia's, and slammed it back.

Mia watched wide-eyed as Su Ming chugged so fiercely; she never imagined him as such a hardcore drinker.

"Teacher, you drinking or what?"

Su Ming questioned, eyeing Mia.

"Yeah, I am."

Mia steeled herself, grabbed the glass, and downed it straight.

Once done, Su Ming refilled his and declared,

"One more for me."

"Um, shouldn't you grab some food first?"

"Nah."

Su Ming brushed it off entirely.

"Oh, alright...."

Mia felt momentarily flustered.

Moments ticked by, and soon empty bottles littered their table.

"Man, I'm done for."

Mia slumped over the table, utterly spent.

Su Ming quietly kept pouring himself wine.

Mia sneaked a glance at Su Ming, confused and wondering inwardly.

"What's with this kid? Is he scheming to get me drunk, then hehe (*^▽^*)?"

Just then, Su Ming eyed the flushed Mia, grabbed his bottle, and headed to the terrace, propping against the rail. While savoring the cool night air and his drink, he gazed at the vibrant city lights below.

Night grew deeper.

"Damn!"

....

-----------------------------------------------

A few days afterward.

Every street in Starlight City gleamed spotless and renewed.

Festive banners adorned the roads, while virtual ad screens everywhere looped celebration broadcasts.

A sharp-dressed woman in white blouse and blue skirt beamed as she delivered the news.

"Ladies and gentlemen, World Daily's Zhang Ya here, live from Starlight Square by the City Lord Mansion. As you see, troops encircle the whole square, with precisely 1 hour and 35 minutes to the event kickoff. The Federation hasn't thrown a bash this epic in a century. Stick with me to experience this landmark occasion."

..

"Now, Federation reps, city lords, generals, and VIPs are arriving."

..

On the avenues, crowds of locals stopped to catch the live feed.

Starlight Square.

A fleet of sleek black hovercars pulled up at the perimeter.

Su Ming emerged with Rhein, Ankaga, Zhang Yi, Allu, Angel, and the rest.

Surveying the scene, a grand stage dominated the square's heart.

Crowds of lawmakers, bureaucrats, and officers mingled below it with lively talk.

At the edges, hordes of journalists rigged pro gear, ready to film the spectacle.

"Whoa, what a crowd!"

Rhein and crew gasped in awe.

"Su Ming, here!"

A call rang out from afar.

Su Ming looked over to spot Ferion and Jone beckoning, so he brought Rhein and the gang to say hello.

"Ferion, Jone!"

"You actually showed up; figured you'd skip the whole thing."

"No way I'd skip it."

"Bold move, heading into Mist Star Sea without worrying you'd never come back."

Ferion ribbed Su Ming.

"I went because I knew I'd make it."

Su Ming clarified for Ferion and Jone.

"Fair enough."

Ferion and Jone let it drop.

"Su Ming!"

Yet another voice hailed from nearby.

Su Ming turned to find Admiral Alifei approaching with a wide grin.

"Alifei, you're here too."

Su Ming offered a handshake.

"Just here for the fun, but you're the star of the show today."

Admiral Alifei complimented Su Ming.

"Stop pulling my leg."

"No joke. Word is, it's not only awards—they're naming two new Generals. Yours is the hottest name floating."

"Two Generals?"

Su Ming showed some surprise too.