Shadows of the Deep Space Chapter 1693 - 539: Declaration of War (Part 3)

Su Ming made the proposal straight to Lord Rosaga.

Even though Su Ming wished to punish Isawen and his group, the proverb warns that a mighty dragon can't crush a native serpent. Plus, with the Federation avoiding civil conflicts at present, he refrained from overdoing it.

"Lord Su Ming, have no concerns. This mishap partly falls on me, and I'll make certain they face severe discipline."

Lord Rosaga responded, smiling warmly.

Noticing Lord Rosaga's politeness, Su Ming held back further words and gestured toward Monica and her companions.

"Incidentally, what's the fine they owe? I'll handle it."

"Lord Su Ming, that's generous of you. As your friends, they owe nothing."

Lord Rosaga answered with a grin.

"Fine then, release them. I'll file a special exemption with the Council shortly."

Su Ming boldly declared he'd resolve Monica and the others' issues.

"Certainly, though might I inquire how long General Su Ming intends to remain on Black Flame Star? Could I offer some welcome?"

Lord Rosaga asked, still smiling.

"Appreciate it, Lord Rosaga, but I'm pressed for time. I'll just talk briefly with my friends before departing."

Su Ming courteously turned him down.

"Very well, I won't interrupt."

Lord Rosaga promptly departed alongside his followers.

Right then, Vox eagerly addressed Su Ming.

"Lord Su Ming."

"Uncle, long time no see."

Su Ming responded courteously.

"Indeed, many thanks for your help this time."

Vox beamed widely at being called uncle by Su Ming.

"No thanks needed, but Uncle, Monica, I've got urgent business and must depart soon, so little time for chatting."

Su Ming told Vox and Monica.

"That's fine."

Vox answered promptly.

"Leave the rest to me; I'll get someone to manage it."

Su Ming assured Vox.

"Wonderful."

"I'm off now."

"Monica, go send off Lord Su Ming."

Vox quickly prompted Monica.

Monica glanced up at Su Ming and spoke.

"Su Ming, let me escort you."

"Sure!"

Su Ming agreed with a nod.

Together they exited, with Ankaga and Zhang Yi trailing at a respectful gap.

Su Ming and Monica proceeded shoulder-to-shoulder to the transit platform.

During the walk, Monica kept her gaze lowered, her face a mix of emotions—reunion's delight, youthful affection, yet deep unease.

Su Ming then shattered the quiet, speaking to Monica.

"Relax, I'll ensure your asylum paperwork gets done. Black Flame Star's settlements aren't ideal; you'd face exploitation here. I'll request a spot on Earth Flame Star for your residence."

"Okay!"

Monica murmured her assent softly.

They soon arrived at the transit platform; Su Ming halted, pulled his wallet from his pocket, withdrew several anonymous Black Cards, offered them to Monica, and instructed.

"Use these. For any troubles, mention my name; if unresolved, await my return."

Monica paused, reluctant to accept the Black Cards from Su Ming.

Su Ming grasped Monica's hand, slipped the Black Cards into it, and stated.

"This isn't the moment for formalities."

"All right."

Monica nibbled her lip in response.

"This is farewell."

Su Ming told Monica.

"Safe travels, stay careful."

Summoning bravery, Monica embraced Su Ming, then retreated and added.

"Goodbye then!"

Su Ming nodded, guiding Ankaga and the rest into the elevator.

Monica observed the transit platform's metal door softly sealing, flashing Su Ming a radiant smile.

Once the door sealed completely, tears streamed from Monica's eyes.

In this encounter, Monica realized they inhabited different realms now. He stood as a Federation General, far from the fresh graduate, exuding transformed presence and vibe.

Certain missed chances fade eternally.

...

Thunder Extreme Central Control Room.

Su Ming arrived inside with Ankaga and company.

Timi saluted deferentially.

"Lord Su Ming, Black Flame Star clearance is finalized; ready to launch."

"Hold on, I'll message Rhein about some tasks."

Su Ming claimed the command seat, lifted his wrist, composed a note directing Rhein to manage aftermath under his authority.

"Understood!"

Timi affirmed respectfully.

Su Ming swiftly finalized arrangements, then commanded Timi.

"Depart!"

"Yes!"

Timi engaged the controls without delay.

Thunder Extreme disengaged from Black Flame Star’s dock, steering toward the defensive perimeter's outlet.

Upon Star Destroyer·Thunder Extreme breaching the perimeter, myriad launch bays activated.

Swoosh, swoosh!

Myriad Mechanical Octopuses surged forth, enveloping Thunder Extreme.

Thunder Extreme shifted to stealth instantly, fired up the Superluminal Flight Device, and slipped into Subspace.

....

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Deep inside Hermis Star Sea.

A vibrant stellar cluster emerged, growing nearer and larger, revealing pure-water star bodies drifting like a starry assembly.

From distance, it resembled a realm of glass orbs, stunningly picturesque.

Suddenly, those pure-water stars yielded to unseen pull, spiraling inward to craft a striking whirlpool.

Pure-water stars plunged into the vortex core.

Sizzle, sizzle!