Space station 33: Generous Rewards! Shattered Dao Hearts of Firefly and Kafka

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After the discussion concluded, Su Qing and Himeko ventured to a nearby mountain park, not far from the school.

It was the perfect season for admiring autumn foliage. As far as the eye could see, the mountains were ablaze with vibrant reds, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

The mountain wasn't particularly high, and the duo didn't plan to reach its summit; instead, they simply wanted to enjoy nature's beauty, making it akin to a date.

Walking along the winding mountain path, Su Qing held Himeko's hand, occasionally helping her navigate steeper sections.

Himeko wore a creamy white knitted dress with a delicate silver belt at her waist, paired with comfortable sneakers.

Her thin woolen dress provided warmth while accentuating her figure subtly, highlighting her alluring curves around the chest and hips.

Himeko had her long red hair styled up, which added an air of elegance. The style revealed her fair neck, with a few strands of red hair gently falling against her porcelain-like skin.

As they approached a large flight of stairs, Himeko held Su Qing's hand, and with his assistance, she stepped up cautiously. Feeling slightly unsteady, Su Qing gently supported her waist.

Himeko leaned softly into him, wearing a contented smile.

Recently, Himeko had noticed Su Qing's rapid academic progress; his level was now significantly higher than hers.

In the past, this might have sparked unfounded worries, fearing to be left behind.

However, after the blossoming of love in spring and its passionate intensity throughout summer,

now in autumn, as their emotions settled,

their relationship transcended mere passion, becoming more deeply intertwined through reason.

Hand in hand, Himeko led Su Qing to a platform halfway up the mountain.

She had learned to maintain composure, recognizing that her lover's advancement was undoubtedly a positive thing.

If temporarily lagging behind, one simply needed to strive harder to catch up.

The journey alongside Su Qing to explore the stars still stretched long, very long indeed—there was no need to dwell on temporary gains or losses.

[March 7th: Oh wow, Sister Himeko is remarkably composed at this point!]

[Stelle: It feels like the competition might come to an end soon.]

[Kafka: ...]

[Firefly: ...]

[Bronya: ? And it seems like these two have already shattered their determination.]

[Seele: How could they not? Himeko capitalized on her advantage, unleashing a devastating combo that instantly wiped out their health bars.]

[Stelle: Will there be a surprising twist? A twist?!]

[Seele: Highly unlikely.]

[Himeko: (elegantly sipping coffee) Although my memories were sealed, is it possible...]

[Himeko: That ever since then, Su Qing and I have been together all along?]

[Silver Wolf: Living happily ever after, a perfect happy ending, right?]

[Firefly: No way, I don't want this kind of conclusion. Su Qing! Don't forget about us! There's still someone waiting for you at Penacony.]

[Firefly: @Black Swan, do you think he'll return?]

[Black Swan: Best answer: I don't know.]

[Firefly: 😢🐱] (Crying cat emoji)

As they reached the platform halfway up the mountain, they continued walking deeper into the park, admiring the red autumn leaves while the surroundings gradually grew quieter.

Despite exercising restraint, as previously mentioned, occasional rewards remained crucial.

At the end of the winding path stood a round table surrounded by stone benches.

Su Qing took a seat on one of the benches, with no one else around. Hesitating slightly, Himeko sat on his lap.

She gently wrapped her arms around his neck, showing great intimacy, and whispered softly, like the fragrance of orchids, "It's another weekend already."

Remaining composed, Su Qing feigned confusion, "Yes, it's the weekend, but so what?"

Himeko lightly punched his chest, feeling bashful yet annoyed, "Don't play dumb; we agreed that during weekdays you focus on studying, and on weekends...you give me my reward."

"Well, first let's see if you've been studying diligently." With Theoretical Deduction advancing further, Su Qing had reached a level where he could now instruct Himeko effectively.

His left hand rested on Himeko's waist, while his right hand lay on her full thigh, gently caressing as if savoring the texture of her sweater.

This level of intimacy had become routine for them.

Yet, Himeko couldn't help blushing.

Despite reason tempering her desires, Himeko's love for Su Qing never diminished. Just like when they first started dating, she remained easily flustered.

"All right, let's start with this question..." Su Qing posed.

"Oh, that's simple. Are you giving me extra points?" Himeko responded.

Su Qing nodded, indicating her answer was correct.

"Well then, since it's correct." Himeko leaned closer, her beautiful cheeks slightly flushed, "Reward."

While fiery red maple leaves were indeed breathtaking, they paled in comparison to the person nestled in his arms.

Engaging in their question-and-answer game, hidden beneath layers of autumn foliage, the couple enjoyed their leisurely date.

[March 7th: So sweet, soooo sweet.]

[March 7th: With each correct answer earning a kiss, this learning method must lead to incredible academic progress, right?!]

[Bronya: @Seele, why aren't you chiming in this time? Didn't you mention before about striving harder when you could see your progress bar?]

[Seele (blushing): Nonsense!!!]

[Seele: It's not like Su Qing is my boyfriend; how-how could I possibly use such a method... Bronya, are you serious?!]

[Bronya: Enjoying the banter.]

[Stelle: Me too, enjoying.]

[Qingque: Impressive! There really are people who can discuss academics while on an intimate date?]

[Sparkle: If studying foreign languages is acceptable, why not this approach as well??]

[Stelle: I love learning! I love learning!]

[March 7th: Is it really about loving learning though?]

[Stelle: Well, if we draw a parallel, it's like gaming couples discussing games during dates.]

[Silver Wolf: Gotcha. Like rewarding themselves after defeating each 'Sekiro' boss?]

[Stelle: Actually, shouldn't it be rewarded harshly each time someone dies?]

[Silver Wolf: ...That might lead to fatalities.]

[Firefly: ?]

[Kafka: ...]

[Silver Wolf (checking for breath): Firefly can still cry, so she seems fine, but Kafka is truly done.]

[Stelle: Mom?! Noooo!!!]

[Herta: Filial indeed.]

***

On their way back, Himeko clung tightly to Su Qing's arm, leaning close with a blissful expression.

[March 7th: Seems like the earlier reward really satisfied Sister Himeko.]

[Himeko: (blushing uncontrollably)]

[Firefly (covering ears): I don't want to hear this! I don't want to hear this!]

[Kafka: ...]

As they entered the school gates, Su Qing should have escorted Himeko to her dormitory and parted ways. However, upon turning a corner, his gaze swept behind them, detecting some peculiar individuals amidst the crowd.

Recalling his encounter from earlier that morning, Su Qing briefly pondered before casually suggesting, "Let's take another stroll around the school."

Himeko was somewhat surprised but naturally delighted. "Great!"

In her mind, she wondered: Is Su Qing unable to resist as well, wanting to spend more time with me?

Meanwhile, in another location, within an office...

Advisor Lin sat at his desk, with stacks of documents spread out before him. He moved the mouse cursor while remarking, "As expected, you still persist with your original research, unwilling to acknowledge your mistake."

Standing nearby was a burly bodyguard, so Professor Xu could only glare angrily at Advisor Lin. "How many times have I told you?! My research is correct! You're wrong!"

"Calm down, calm down."

Advisor Lin signaled the bodyguards to shoo away students who were passing by and gawking. "I've also told you countless times, correctness doesn't matter; what's most important is profit."

He observed Professor Xu, noting that despite being roughly the same age, the professor appeared significantly more hunched and aged.

Sighing, Advisor Lin said, "If only you had joined forces with the Cyan Ring Group alongside me back then, things wouldn't have turned out this way."

"You corporate lackey! Stop with your phony act!" Professor Xu gritted his teeth. "Had enough of your snooping? If so, then get lost!"

Advisor Lin calmly shook his head. "After all these years, there's no need to feign such agitation. My primary purpose here isn't for you but rather for those students of yours."

Only now did Professor Xu's expression truly change. "What do you want with them? They were merely lingering at the threshold of interstellar aviation; they couldn't possibly pose a threat, right?"

"Perhaps they've just reached the doorway," Advisor Lin replied, "but when working for the company, one must always be diligent. I've been keeping an eye on them since their trip to the island."

"Teacher?" Kahn's voice came from the doorway. He and Anna stood there, observing the scene inside with some unease.

"Teacher, you said you wanted to see us... What is this about?" asked Anna.

The bodyguards pushed both of them into the room.

Professor Xu tried to struggle but was held firmly in place.

Advisor Lin looked at Kahn and Anna. "There are two more; I've already dispatched people after them. That Su Qing, he's the core of your group, isn't he?"

Kahn and Anna seemed to grasp the situation, remaining silent without responding.

"Don't worry, I've already dealt with him," Advisor Lin said with a smile. "He is indeed exceptionally talented. However, dealing with such young individuals is not new to me; usually, they don't learn their lesson until facing some setbacks."

Upon hearing his implication, Professor Xu struggled again but was firmly held by the guards. "What do you intend to do?! Resorting to violence in public? Even Blue Ring Company isn't reckless enough for this, surely!"

Advisor Lin approached, patted the bewildered Kahn on the shoulder, and shook his head with a grin. "No need to worry, I am a civilized person; I won't go too far."

Meanwhile, at a secluded spot within the school grounds...

Su Qing walked over, patted the panicked guard lying on the ground, and shook her head. "Don't worry, I'm a civilized individual; under normal circumstances, I won't kill anyone."

[Seele: Pfft! (laughs out loud immediately)]

[Stelle: Hahahaha!!]

[Sparkle: Amused.]

[Qingque: Although roughly guessed it, didn't expect such a stark contrast - ha ha!]

[Silver Wolf: On Water Blue Star, with no extraordinary powers, Su Qing is practically unstoppable.]

[Silver Wolf: But... laughing to death.]

[Silver Wolf: Wait? Advisor Lin says they won't go too far, while Su Qing directly states he won't kill. Who's truly the villain here??]

The prone bodyguard lifted his head, first glancing at his groaning teammates around him.

Then he recalled Su Qing's brutal and merciless actions moments ago, along with the palpable aura of killing intent...

To suggest that Su Qing had never shed blood seemed highly unlikely to the bodyguard.

He was genuinely bewildered. Are college students nowadays this fierce?!

Do they engage in warfare as extracurricular activities or something?

[Qingque: Ha ha, the bodyguard's reaction is quite amusing.]

The bodyguard swallowed nervously. "Y-you... you really mean it?"

Su Qing flashed a smile. "Of course, as long as you answer my questions. You said you're just doing your job; why risk your life for it?"

[You have provided friendly persuasion to the bodyguard.]

[The bodyguard is swiftly convinced.]

[Su Qing convinced the guard at lightning speed.]

[Stelle: hhh, truly "affectionate" persuasion now.]

Su Qing stood up, having grasped the situation through his questioning. He looked at Himeko beside him and said, "We need to visit Professor Xu's office."

Pausing briefly, he added, "Let's go together."

In this current scenario, being by his side was the safest option.

During their relationship, Himeko had become aware of Su Qing's extraordinary physical capabilities. However, it wasn't until just now that she witnessed firsthand the hidden aspect of his nature.

Himeko glanced at the wailing bodyguard on the ground, then looked at her lover. Feeling somewhat startled, she pursed her lips but swiftly moved next to Su Qing, taking his hand. "Yes... I'll go with you."

[Stelle: Wow, Sister Himeko overcame her fear so quickly?]

[March 7th: This is the power of love, the limitless power of love!]

[Silver Wolf: Can't take it—here goes March 7th again.]

[Himeko (recalling): At that time, as someone who had never experienced combat, I indeed felt afraid.]

[Himeko: But then I thought, no matter what dangers lie ahead, am I willing to face them alongside Su Qing?]

[Himeko: Once I found the answer to that question, the subsequent choice became clear.]

[Firefly: (sourly)]

[Stelle: Aah! Don't suddenly unleash such lovey-dovey sparkles; my eyes can't handle it!]

[March 7th: ? Hee-hee, sounds like wedding vows—so sweet!]

[March 7th: Thanks for the sugar, Sister Himeko!]

[Himeko: (smiling)]

"Relax." Sensing Himeko's slight trembling, Su Qing embraced her briefly and gently patted her back. "As long as I'm here, everything will be fine."

Himeko visibly relaxed.

[Bronya: Su Qing exudes such unwavering security even in these moments—it truly is reassuring!]

***

"Excuse me, please step aside."

The bodyguard at the door instinctively tried to block their way but found himself effortlessly pushed aside, unable to muster enough resistance in time.

Su Qing and Himeko entered the office, first greeting Professor Xu who seemed relieved, then checked on Kahn and Anna, confirming they were uninjured.

Only then did Su Qing turn towards Advisor Lin standing in the middle of the room. "We meet again so soon."

Professor Xu wanted to speak up, but he realized that despite being just a student, Su Qing had completely taken control of the situation. Everyone present inadvertently focused on his words.

Advisor Lin, usually composed, showed surprise for the first time. "What happened to the people I sent after you?"

Su Qing shook his head. "No idea, I've never seen them before."

His response was remarkably natural, and his appearance remained neat, showing no signs of injury.

Advisor Lin looked puzzled. "Could it be they didn't find you?"

"Never mind." He glanced at the guards nearby. "Then let's handle this ourselves. Give this young man a lesson."

"Dammit! Stop right there!" Professor Xu could no longer bear it; he couldn't just watch as his student faced harm before him.

He rushed forward, "After enduring so much for years, today, even if it costs me my life..."

In that critical moment, Professor Xu's hunched figure erupted with extraordinary strength, displaying exceptional bravery and determination.

Kahn and Anna wore expressions of shock, while Advisor Lin reacted with surprise.

Facing a formidable enemy, the teacher's heroic sacrifice to awaken his students felt almost cinematic, evoking tears...

But Su Qing swiftly pulled Professor Xu back, restraining him firmly. "Don't die—it's not worth it."

Professor Xu stared, bewildered. Advisor Lin also looked taken aback. Everyone present was utterly confused.

[Seele: Hahahahahaha!]

[Seele: "Don't Die"]

[Seele: Can't take it anymore, I'm going to laugh myself unconscious.]

[Stelle: Succinct and to the point.]

[Bronya: Ha ha, I can't hold it in either. Despite clearly being in crisis since just now, why does this situation feel somewhat comical?]

[Black Swan: (also unable to suppress a soft laugh) It's the contrast, isn't it? Mainly the contrast between Su Qing and the others, truly intriguing.]

[Black Swan: With Advisor Lin having so many armed bodyguards, dealing with a few students should have been effortless. For Professor Xu and the rest, it indeed seemed like facing a formidable threat.]

[Black Swan: But for Su Qing, this scene is...]

[Stelle: Just a few bodyguards? He'd instantly take down even junior demon hunters!]

[Fu Xuan: Indeed, such a pedestrian threat at their doorstep hardly seems enough to rattle Su Qing.]

[Sparkle: Amusing.]

[Sparkle: I was even thinking, if the legendary demon hunter Su Qing from her past life couldn't handle this situation, it would truly be entertaining.]

[March 7th: ...Sparkle finds amusement in just about anything.]

To prevent Professor Xu from acting impulsively again, Su Qing casually dealt with the few bodyguards in the office.

It required minimal effort, with the only concern being not to cause any fatalities. Water Blue Star, unlike Tianyi-5, is a civilized society.

However, the reactions of those present were far more pronounced than Himeko's earlier response. Kahn was utterly shocked, exclaiming, "Water Blue Star profanity! Su Qing, are you also a martial arts master?! Skilled in both literature and combat?!"

Professor Xu adjusted his slightly slipping glasses, as if only now truly recognizing his student for the first time.

Anna shrank back fearfully, glancing between the burly man lying unconscious at her feet and Su Qing, her eyes filled with admiration.

Advisor Lin reacted swiftly, transforming like a cunning fox, and immediately raised his hand. "Calm down," he said soothingly. "Whatever the issue, we can always find a way to discuss it."

He began to persuade Su Qing, "Think carefully. Is it truly necessary to strive on a path with no visible end? While you're still young, why not align yourself with a major corporation and enjoy a lifetime of wealth and prosperity? Isn't that appealing?"

Advisor Lin's words were earnest. "Trust me, the universe might just be vast emptiness, devoid of any other civilizations. Even if we venture into space, there could be nothing to gain at the end. Tell me, what can one possibly find amidst the cosmos?!"

This rhetoric had convinced some individuals before. With Advisor Lin backed by the technologically advanced Cyan Ring Group, his arguments carried significant credibility.

However, Su Qing showed no hesitation. "The universe holds boundless realms, Aeon Gods, and myriad civilizations. If you must ask, the Xianzhou is just one example among them."

Advisor Lin momentarily lost composure, revealing his most unguarded reaction. "How do you know!?... No, this 'Xianzhou' doesn't exist at all!"

[Fu Xuan: Speechless.]

[Qingque: Also speechless. +1]

[Seele: This guy is seriously revolting. I suggest he just crash and die.]

[Sushang: Ha ha, well said! Love your feisty spirit, Seele!]

[Seele: He knows about the vastness of the universe yet still tries to deceive others here.]

[Seele: Who knows how many people he's tricked into abandoning their dreams? He definitely doesn't deserve to be called a scientific advisor!]

[Stelle: I declare this as Seele's most accurate judgment on science yet!]

[Seele: ...Can you not mock me at a time like this?]

[March 7th: Amused.]

[Stelle: Ha ha, sorry, sorry. This time, I was indeed wrong.]

[Seele (reluctantly accepting): Hmph.]

[Himeko (smiling): Acknowledging and rectifying mistakes still makes one a good person.]

By now, Su Qing had grasped the general situation.

The Cyan Ring Group likely established contact with certain organizations in the universe, obtaining technology surpassing that of Water Blue Star.

Instead of helping Water Blue Star venture into space after gaining this advantage, they concealed the information and actively hindered the development of interstellar travel to maintain their monopolistic position.

[Bronya: ...Unfathomable. Would a company truly obstruct an entire planet's aerospace progress for decades, just for its own benefit?]

[Herta: I've seen such things far too often. Never underestimate the depths of human depravity.]

Su Qing quickly processed the information and formulated a potential solution.

He asked, "So it seems you have means to communicate with the outside world?"

Advisor Lin recovered swiftly, regaining his composure within a brief moment.

His eyes flickered, but he refrained from answering directly. Instead, he said, "Even if you knew, so what? You're just one person. No matter how skilled you are, can you truly take on the entire Cyan Ring Group?"

Su Qing pondered for a moment. "Given Water Blue Star's current level, it should be possible within a few more years."

Advisor Lin looked at him as if seeing an extraterrestrial being. "Are you serious?"

The conviction in Su Qing's words was too strong.

Advisor Lin couldn't help but doubt reality itself.

Su Qing nodded. "But actually, your point is valid."

Violence could serve as the ultimate means to resolve issues.

However, one must not overly rely on it.

Underestimating the tactics of a large corporation once they abandon their moral boundaries would be unwise—assassinations, poisonings, or even accidents involving trucks around corners...

Even if he himself were undaunted, he couldn't risk exposing those close to him, especially Himeko, to such dangers.

Thus, Su Qing organized his thoughts and began, "Well then, since that's the situation, we can discuss options."

Advisor Lin's joy exceeded expectations. "Excellent! Everything has its price, after all. As long as we can negotiate, anything is open for discussion!"

Su Qing had everyone else step aside, leaving only Professor Xu behind, as he might need his assistance later.

Then, Su Qing patted Advisor Lin on the shoulder, his voice suddenly infused with a peculiar enchantment. "Listen carefully..."

[Advanced Word Spirit Technique lv3 (0/100) used]

[Remaining uses: 2/3]

[Stelle: Negotiate!]

[Silver Wolf: Is this skill obtained from Kafka? The value of the Fluid Banner keeps rising!]

[Kafka: ...]

[Bronya: How exactly does Su Qing plan to resolve Water Blue Star's issues?]

[Bronya: Using brute force would indeed be quite challenging.]

[Himeko: Watching this scene reminds me of something...]

[Himeko: Perhaps the most effective way to deal with a major corporation isn't through governments or laws, but rather, another major corporation.]

[Himeko: @Topaz]

[Topaz: Huh?]

[Himeko: It's time for Cyan Ring Group to learn what true monopoly means.]

[Topaz: Ah??]

[Topaz (realizing): Interastral Peace Corporation isn't actually a monopolistic entity!]

[Stelle: I declare, all previous jokes don't count—this is today's funniest punchline!]

[Silver Wolf: Ha ha ha.]

[Sparkle: Quite amusing.]

[Kafka:... In the next episode, breakup.]

[Silver Wolf: Kafka is still fighting! She won't give up easily!]

[Himeko: (elegantly sipping coffee) A defeated commander should not boast of valor.]