Chapter 5, Journey

Tang Long nodded and said

Tang Long was astonished, stopped in his tracks, and said to Fashier: "Then why did you order to open fire?"

The twilight deepened, yet there were hardly any people in the square, as if this was not the venue for celebration. At this moment, the place appeared desolate and empty. Tang Long thought to himself that it would be nice to visit the classical equation monument in the capital, so he slowly approached it

Are you referring to Mike? Yes, Mike indeed does not appear to be a member of the ground crew; he is graceful, courteous, and quite appealing to women. However, one should not judge solely by appearances; you have not witnessed Mike's valiant side; he is a trustworthy soldier

"Captain Tang Long, if there is nothing else, please do not disturb me." Saying this, she left the side of the ship without looking back, disappearing at the end of the corridor

Fashel did not turn around and said, "Dear Captain Tang Long, I have indeed fulfilled my promise to you. You have successfully obtained your position in the Science and Technology Development Committee, is there still anything to complain about?"

Indeed, Tang Long scratched his head and smiled somewhat sheepishly, "That guy mocked my father as a madman and an idiot right in front of me. In a moment of impulse, I splashed my drink in his face. His expression at that time was truly a sight to behold; he looked utterly embarrassed. Now that I think about it, just seeing him like that would be worth being exiled to the Hongju Star System."

They met right here. Ai Lian continued, as if speaking to herself

Fashel nodded and said, "You may go now. In private settings from now on, just call me Fashel."

Fashel stopped in his tracks, looked at Tang Long, and said: "What is wrong with you? Are you still a scientist? You have always prided yourself on your research into non-human races, and now a great opportunity is right in front of you, yet you are actually going to back down? Are scientists really just hiding under the covers to conduct their research? I thought you were very brave; in fact, you are just a coward like your father!"

Why are people always on guard against everything, even against humanity itself

Is it really so? "Fashel smiled slightly, 'Will humanity stop waging war without science? Our ancestors used their teeth and limbs, then axes, followed by the era of cold weapons, then firearms, and finally the nuclear age. There has only been one constant theme, which is war.'"

"You shut your mouth!" Tang Long's veins bulged as he clenched his fists and shouted, "You have no right to criticize my father!"

"Ailian, I didn't expect to see you here..." Tang Long said with a smile

Tang Long was taken aback; Ai Lian's question was quite abrupt

War drives human progress; it is precisely because of war that humanity is compelled to continuously develop technology. Although it may be bloody, this is a fact

At least you still have a father to respect. In the night, Ai Lian's face was indistinct, making her appear particularly ethereal; although she was so close to Tang Long, she seemed utterly unattainable

Was the operation to rescue General Waller that time executed by you

"Where has it gone?" Tang Long muttered, having lost his way. He wandered around, feeling somewhat disappointed. The crowd had indeed thinned out, but a sense of inexplicable loneliness and melancholy gradually emerged.

The Dulles Alliance Military Committee has reconvened its members, and after intense yet brief consultations, it has been decided to dispatch a task force. Given the inability to assemble and deploy from other regions to the Red Matrix star system in the short term, the task force will be drawn from the original Red Matrix fleet. Orders have been issued to the Red Matrix fleet, and the mission of the task force is highly confidential, commanded by Major General Fashir, while the Red Matrix fleet will be temporarily commanded by Li Fa, awaiting further instructions from the Military Committee. Given the inability to assemble and deploy from other regions to the Red Matrix star system in the short term, the task force will be drawn from the original Red Matrix fleet. Orders have been issued to the Red Matrix fleet, and the mission of the task force is highly confidential, commanded by Major General Fashir, while the Red Matrix fleet will be temporarily commanded by Li Fa, awaiting further instructions from the Military Committee

Ailian had not spoken for a long time and let out a soft sigh

If I have it in my hands! Tang Long stands his ground unwaveringly

Strictly speaking, he did not see Ai Lian; he only saw a cluster of red objects beneath the monument, which appeared so vibrant and beautiful even in the dusk. Tang Long recognized it at a glance; it was the fiery red roses in Ai Lian's hand. His heart raced as he quickened his pace, and then he saw Ai Lian's pure white dress. Tang Long came to a halt. His heart raced as he quickened his pace, and then he saw Ai Lian's pure white dress. Tang Long came to a halt

"It is thus that the unfortunate General Der has become a victim of such political purposes"

I did not expect to see you here," Tang Long said with a smile, "Are you also an admirer of this scientist?

Finally, Fashir shook his head, "I am sorry," Fashir said, "Forgive me, I was a bit impulsive, I apologize"

There is one more thing I do not quite understand: they did not demote you, but instead promoted you?

It is indeed the Hergin who established the classical equations

***

"I am not a philosopher," Fashir said coldly, striding forward.

In the evening, Tang Long struggled to put on his military uniform, but he could not fasten the collar buttons no matter what. "The military uniform is yet another terrible invention of the Alliance," Tang Long muttered. Originally, he had planned to sulk alone in his room, but the noise from outside attracted his attention. Upon inquiring, he found out that it was the Carnival of Blue Star. An idea immediately sprang to Tang Long's mind. He wondered what Ai Lian was doing at that moment and thought it would be better to invite her out to see the festive streets. This idea quickly swept away all his previous displeasure, and Tang Long became excited. As for the military uniform, it was meant to surprise Ai Lian.

Fahriel stood alone in place, gazing at the fallen dry leaves on the ground, somewhat lost in thought

Tang Long continued the previous topic and asked, "Since that is the case, what is the purpose of holding a hearing?"

"Colonel Mike, how many years have you served in the military?" Fashir asked

"Captain Ailian," said Tang Long

Tang Long gradually calmed down. After a while, he said somewhat dejectedly: "Alright, I will go with you. This is for the sake of *图*书 science. Indeed, it is a rare opportunity to interact with a non-human species. But do not force me to do things I am unwilling to do."

"Worship?" Ai Lian said somewhat dreamily, "Scientist?"

"No, it won't happen," Fashir finally spoke, saying, "In fact, the Military Committee is not afraid of military conflict at all."

Ailian was half-squatting there, the bouquet of roses placed beneath the classical monument, the petals gently swaying in the breeze. Ailian was fiddling with the roses, completely unaware of Tang Long's arrival, as if fully immersed in her work.

Finally, the crowd moved in one direction, and Tang Long was sweating profusely, struggling to catch his breath. At that moment, the white figure reappeared before Tang Long, invigorating him. Ai Lian, unbeknownst to her, had a bouquet of fiery red roses in her hand, which, combined with her snow-white gown, created a beautiful scene, making her appear even more ethereal. She walked ahead, oblivious to Tang Long's presence; from her gait, it seemed she was on her way to some appointment. Tang Long calmed himself down but found himself hesitant to approach, merely following quietly behind. The feeling of being a thief tormented him; stalking Ai Lian felt like a desecration. Ai Lian seemed to sense something, suddenly turning her head to look back. Tang Long quickly darted into a nearby corner, his heart racing.

To Tang Long's great surprise, Ai Lian immediately adopted a stern expression upon seeing him and coldly said

I do not wish to understand either," said Tang Long as he left Fa Xie Er, unexpectedly walking away alone

The atmosphere suddenly became tense, and both individuals halted in their tracks, glaring at each other

"I don't know..." As she spoke, Ai Lian stood up and approached Tang Long. She exuded a fragrance reminiscent of musk and orchids, which unsettled Tang Long. Ai Lian looked at Tang Long and extended her fair hand, causing him to instinctively take a step back. Ai Lian's hand reached towards Tang Long's neck

On the second day, aboard the transport ship Haiblue, Fashier and his companions departed from the capital to carry out their mission

Fashel looked at Tang Long and slowly said, "You will never understand the thoughts of a true soldier"

Yes, Commander!" Mike turned and left

Fashel smiled

"Do you also want to splash wine on me?" Fashir said coldly

Tang Long stood there somewhat foolishly

"It really doesn't sound like something a soldier would say," Tang Long chuckled, "but rather like the words of an anti-war activist."

Tang Long felt somewhat disappointed as he strolled along, the path beneath his feet widening while the number of people dwindled. Soon, the area before him opened up into a small square, the most prominent feature being a tall conical structure that towered above the square. It was so high that it seemed to pierce the clouds; even though it was dusk, the haziness of the night could not obscure its imposing grandeur.

It is truly ironic that, despite the development of classical equations over so many years, their application has been the fastest and most complete in the military field. However, it is also precisely because of the limitations of classical equations that humanity has not further engaged in self-destruction. From this perspective, the lag in scientific advancement has ironically brought temporary peace to humanity

"Woman, what exactly are you?" he murmured, completely bewildered

Fahriel fell silent. Tang Long had always held great respect for his deceased father, so upon mentioning his father, Fahriel ceased to argue. Tang Long's assignment to Hongju was also somewhat related to the general's insult towards his father.

Fashel raised his eyebrows and said, "This is a gesture for the Os Alliance, orchestrated by the Dulles Alliance, allowing everyone to save face. They will punish a few senior generals and then issue a diplomatic note to express their sincerity, among other things"

Thank you for your compliment, General

An officer who understands how to love and care for soldiers is a good officer

If humanity can progress, then what evil could possibly exist?" Fashir muttered to himself

"Then, that fleet that breached our defensive area was not a planned invasion, was it?" Tang Long asked, "Now, speaking privately, on your conscience."

Ailian did not smile; she merely stared blankly at the rose and let out a soft sigh

Tang Long was once again rendered speechless. Fashier turned around and continued walking forward

It has been exactly ten years, during which I have participated in a total of twenty-seven battles of various scales

"The Monument of Classical Equations," Tang Long muttered to himself. He was not mistaken. There is a saying: wherever there are humans, there will be a Monument of Classical Equations. Ever since that Earth scientist discovered the classical equations and established the principle of simple light-speed motion, humanity has taken its first steps into the cosmos. To commemorate this great human scientist and the remarkable equations he discovered, tall monuments have been erected on all human planets. These towering monuments symbolize humanity's determination to advance into the universe. To commemorate this great human scientist and the remarkable equations he discovered, tall monuments have been erected on all human planets. These towering monuments symbolize humanity's determination to advance into the universe.

Tang Long hurriedly descended the stairs. Outside, there were crowds of people, and it was not as clear as it had seemed from above. Tang Long jumped a few times and saw Ai Lian's white figure disappear into the distance. The crowd was everywhere, and it was growing larger. Relying on his remarkable strength, Tang Long pushed through the throng, trying to make his way out. Soon, he realized it was not as easy as he had imagined. The people were endless, like an infinite sea. Tang Long struggled in this ocean, but the tide of people carried him further away. Tang Long jumped up in desperation and shouted loudly, but his voice was immediately drowned out by the cacophony around him, like a small wave that surged briefly before vanishing.

"Your father?" Tang Long asked gently

You are not a soldier and do not understand the rules involved. The commanders of the independent fleets in the alliance do not hold officer ranks, so promoting me to the rank of Major General is a temporary measure; once the mission is over, I will return to my position as Colonel. This is a special circumstance, hence the special arrangement.

Tang Long said angrily: "Damn it! I used to be a miner, but now I am even worse than a miner. I refuse to be a soldier; go ahead and report me to the military court. I would rather spend a lifetime in prison than go to the battlefield as cannon fodder"

Tang Long was extremely disappointed to find that Ai Lian was unexpectedly not present and had already left. He felt a twinge of jealousy, wondering who that lucky young man could be. The crowd outside had begun to swell, likely indicating that the routine festive parade had commenced. Tang Long leaned out of the window, his eyes brightening.

After a while, when Tang Long poked his head out again, there was no trace of Ai Lian.

In fact, the biggest beneficiary is still you. General De'er has retired, and I, surprisingly, fell for your sweet talk and was deceived into becoming a soldier. To be honest, I would rather go mine for stones.

For the third time, Tang Long saw Ai Lian

"Let me give you an example," Fashier said. "If a tiger discovers a sleeping passerby, and since the tiger is not hungry, it does not wish to eat the passerby. However, when the passerby wakes up and sees the tiger, what will be the passerby's first reaction? Surely, it will be to immediately draw a gun and shoot the tiger. Therefore, looking back at the entire process, the tiger should have eaten the person to prevent being shot by the passerby. Tang Long, this is a form of self-defense instinct."

I had thought that the members of the land station team were all brawny men with well-developed limbs and simple minds. It was at this moment that Tang Long, who had been silent all along, spoke up

Ailian was just downstairs, having stepped out not long ago. She had changed into a white sleeveless long dress, cinched at the waist with a golden metallic belt that perfectly accentuated her slender figure; she had applied a light touch of makeup, and a delicate golden necklace highlighted her slender and fair neck. Her hair was loosely tied back with a ribbon, softly cascading down to her waist, which left Tang Long feeling refreshed and delighted.

Report, Colonel Mike of the Land Station Team is reporting to you! A tall and slender young man stands before Fashier

Tang Long and Fashier reported to the Military Committee together and received their orders. Fashier seemed to have anticipated this, while Tang Long's expression was even more sour than a bitter melon. After exiting the Military Committee building, Tang Long remained silent for a long time. Fashier, lost in his own thoughts, did not pay any attention to Tang Long.

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I do not quite understand

In my personal opinion, "Fashel said slowly, 'That was not an invasion that was premeditated or intentional.'

Ailian raised her head, glanced at Tang Long, and showed no signs of surprise, then lowered her head to look at the rose

Fahriel smiled rarely

"You are mistaken again," said Fashier. "For General De'er, this is not necessarily a bad thing. General De'er has taken the situation too seriously; the heightened state of readiness, the frequent mobilization of the fleet, and the rampant rumors have led him to believe that border conflicts could erupt at any moment. All of this is merely superficial, yet General De'er is confused. This conflict has completely shattered his resolve; retirement is what he has longed for."

Ai Lian silently shook her head. Tang Long did not know what to say.

Tang Long deeply appreciated Fa Xie Er's keen insight into the situation

If there were mutual trust, such a tragic situation should not have occurred, Tang Long said hesitantly

I personally would very much like to see you severely punished by them said Tang Long with some resentment

This made Tang Long begin to miss Ai Lian a bit. Thus, he found an excuse to leave Fashier and went to look for Ai Lian on the Hai Lan ship. Finally, he found Ai Lian in the old place, by the railing on the side of the ship. Ai Lian was still the same, leaning against the railing, gazing outside, melancholic yet beautiful

It was also this festival, this night. My mother wore a beautiful white long dress, and he, dressed in a dashing military uniform... He presented my mother with a bouquet of red roses, right here, professing his love to her...

Tang Long, Ai Lian suddenly asked, "I heard that you were dismissed from your position because of your father, is that true?"

Tang Long shrugged his shoulders, unconvinced. Fashier glanced at Tang Long and said, "As a soldier, Tang Long, you should first learn how to button your collar." Fashier's eyes were fixed on Tang Long's collar, which he still had not buttoned up since getting up in the morning

"Why?" Tang Long asked in confusion

Perhaps Ai Lian enjoys dating soldiers, Tang Long thought to himself as he stepped out the door

A true soldier

Fashel also paused, thought for a moment, and said: "Do you think I enjoy killing? I simply cannot guarantee that when the Kreemara fleet realizes they are within our range, they will not fire first"

Tang Long was momentarily taken aback, then caught up with Fashier and said

Finally, Tang Long could no longer contain himself, "How do you know that the Military Commission will let you go?"

"As a soldier, you must fasten your buttons properly," said Ai Lian. Tang Long felt Ai Lian helping him fasten the button at his collar, his hands icy cold

Fashel did not speak, but merely smiled meaningfully.

"No, General," Mike said loudly, "it was accomplished by me and my brothers."

Congratulations on your promotion, said Tang Long somewhat sourly. As a soldier, climbing up the ranks must be the most gratifying thing, right

I assure you," Fashir said淡淡地.

"The history of humanity is, in fact, a history filled with the sins of war," said Tang Long, "This is what my father said"

Is it possible?" Fashier looked at Tang Long with a slight smirk. Tang Long also felt that he could not convince himself.

Additionally, Tang Long has resumed his position as a member of the Scientific and Technological Development Committee and has taken on the role of Special Scientific Advisor to the Task Force. Due to the military nature of the operation, Tang Long has automatically transitioned to active duty with the rank of Captain, effective immediately

"No party," Fashir stated, "can assemble a large-scale armed force at the distant border. Even if it were possible to gather such forces, once they penetrate the territory of the other side, they would inevitably face severe supply shortages. Ultimately, this is all due to the simple limitation of the speed of light"