Chapter 19: Wedding

4953 Words
Back when he was in school, Xiao Sa had received numerous love letters, but this was the first time he had faced such a direct and serious declaration of love. Being proposed to on his first blind date and having contracts and agreements presented on the second meeting—if it were anyone else, it might seem insincere or driven by hidden motives. However, coming from the composed and mature General Landis, it gave off a sense of reliability. Feeling the towel around his neck was too warm, Xiao Sa took it off and casually loosened the zipper of his collar to cool down. He glanced down at the marriage agreement and spoke slowly, “Lord Landis, are you sure you don’t want to reconsider? If your only concern is the mental pollution, then…” He could also help cleanse the mental pollution, just like he had done for Broken Peak. Does it really necessitate marriage? Or was it that… “The desire to marry you is something I’ve thought through carefully. You don’t need to worry that this is just a whim, and it’s not solely for the purpose of treating my mental pollution.” Landis placed the already prepared marriage agreement in front of Xiao Sa, with his name, Landis Wencer, boldly signed. Xiao Sa looked up at Landis’ icy blue eyes and felt his heart skip a beat, suddenly understanding. So, it was that Landis desired him… no, he really liked him! When the illicit option failed, he opted for the legal route… Recalling how Landis had abruptly taken off his clothes during their last meeting, Xiao Sa gave a complicated look. Tsk, tsk, people in this star sector are quite direct when it comes to courtship. Noticing Xiao Sa’s hesitation, Landis paused, then turned to the last page of the marriage agreement, saying, “I understand you have concerns. Don’t worry, if after six months your health declines or you still cannot accept this marriage, we will part ways amicably.” “Even if we divorce, the commitments I’ve made will remain valid.” Xiao Sa blinked in surprise, finding this almost an unequal treaty. Generally, high-ranking nobles or tycoons like Landis would typically request a prenuptial agreement, fearing a divorce could result in asset loss. Yet, he was offering his vast estates as part of the marriage proposal. At this point, further refusal would be impolite. Xiao Sa thought for a moment. Six months would be ample time to find a way to reach the palace and reclaim his gemstone necklace. Given Landis’ position and authority as a general, it might also be feasible to inquire about the whereabouts of his clan members. As long as he assisted Landis in resolving the mental pollution issue effectively, even if he initiated a divorce after six months, the other party would likely not refuse. During these six months, he would strive to treat Landis well, as a way to compensate for not being able to reciprocate Landis’ feelings. Regarding the assets, he did not need them and would return them all when the time came. Xiao Sa made up his mind, met his gaze, and answered solemnly, "Alright, I agree to marry you." ※※※ Landis was always a man of decisive action, and on the very day Xiao Sa signed the marriage certificate, he began arranging the wedding details. The Wenser family had long been prepared for the patriarch's marriage. With tremendous influence at their disposal, the preparations proceeded without a hitch. Their starship took a week to travel from Zhiyang Star to Central Star, and by then, the wedding schedule at Wenser Estate had already been arranged. For an S-class soldier, marrying at thirty was considered rather late. Upon learning of Admiral Landis’s upcoming wedding, everyone from the royal nobility to the common people on Central Star was abuzz with excitement. When it was revealed that Admiral Landis’s fiancé had a 100% compatibility match but was only a C-class with mental disabilities, public reaction was shock. Stellar Network forums were inundated with related posts, and major media outlets were flooded with headlines, though the buzz continued despite being quickly suppressed by an unknown force. "Heavens, the most famous S-class bachelor in the military has finally found a partner, and it turns out to be a disabled person. It’s hard to say who is more unfortunate." "This shows that in Haino’s eyes, compatibility is everything!" "I’ll bet a pack of spicy noodles that this C-class won’t last a year before ending up in the ICU." However, regardless of the external turmoil, Xiao Sa and Landis remained largely indifferent. ※※※ By the time Landis’s private plane arrived at Otuolaram City, the territory of the Wenser family, it was early evening. To welcome the territory’s lord, Landis, and his soon-to-be-wed spouse, the road from the airport to Wenser Estate was placed under full martial law. A fleet of armed vehicles escorted the central black extended luxury car as it sped down the wide central avenue, with several armed helicopters leading the way in two columns. Sitting in the handcrafted leather back seat, Xiao Sa rested his hand on his cheek, his gaze idly sweeping over the scenery outside the window. It wasn’t until the convoy entered Wenser Estate that he saw the vast, expansive lawns and meticulously trimmed ornamental plants, stretching as far as the eye could see. The extravagant angel fountains along the way shot high, colorful columns of water, and the stone steps on both sides of the road were paved with expensive jade-patterned marble, each carving highlighting the estate’s prime location. Xiao Sa showed no surprise, merely appreciating the unique landscape design. Landis glanced sideways at him, thinking perhaps Xiao Sa had once come from a noble family, but... "Are you missing home?" Xiao Sa turned his head back, raising an eyebrow: "Hmm?" Landis said calmly, "In the future, this will be your home, and you will be the master here." Xiao Sa didn’t respond or argue, only silently sighing to himself. To Landis, he was ultimately just a transient presence. The motorcade drove along the estate’s avenue for about half an hour before slowly coming to a stop in front of the main building complex. A red velvet carpet extended from the entrance to the step-down area. Dozens of attendants lined up in two rows at the entrance, awaiting them respectfully. The attendants opened the car doors for them. Xiao Sa stepped out and casually observed the opulent and magnificent hall. He was still dressed in his white combat suit, but his tall and athletic build made it look like casual sportswear. The security team and the estate’s attendants, all dressed in similar black suits or dark jackets, wore expressions of respect or seriousness. No one spoke a word. The entire estate, from the decor to the people, reflected Landis’s serious and rigid style. Only Xiao Sa stood out, a striking contrast. "Master," Butler Perron, dressed in a well-fitting tailcoat and wearing round silver-rimmed glasses, bowed slightly, "The dining hall has been prepared for the evening banquet. Please, Master Landis and Mr. Xiao, follow me." They walked through a long corridor adorned with luxurious antiques and carvings, arriving at the banquet hall. In the center of the hall, a ten-meter-long rosewood banquet table was set with steaming delicacies: red wine-roasted chicken, seafood and prawn pasta, pumpkin cream soup, and an array of meticulously arranged desserts, pastries, and fruits—a feast for the eyes that made one's mouth water. Other members of the Wenser family were already waiting at the dining hall entrance to welcome them. "This is Xiao Sa, my fiancé," Landis said, placing his arm around Xiao Sa’s waist and introducing his uncles and elder relatives one by one: "This is Uncle Claire, this is Uncle Leon..." The gesture made Xiao Sa feel slightly uneasy, as it didn’t align with Alpha customs. So, he took Landis’s wrist and gently moved it away, then naturally placed his arm around Landis’s waist, much to the astonishment of the relatives. Landis: "?" Xiao Sa looked at him sideways, not feeling the slightest bit of awkwardness. "Go on." On his home planet, Alphas held their Omegas in this manner. His expression was so natural and innocent that Landis was momentarily speechless and could only continue introducing the rest of the relatives. Landis' cold eyes swept across the room. "Is Mother not here again?" Uncle Leon awkwardly smiled and said, "Your mother is unwell and won't be joining the dinner. She's resting in her room, and dinner has already been sent up." "Hmm, I see," Landis responded flatly. "Let's begin the meal." Xiao Sa raised an eyebrow and sat down in the first high-backed chair to the left of the main seat. On the starship, Landis had mentioned his family situation to him. His father, Wright Wenser, was of commoner origin and initially rose to prominence in the Heavenly Ascension Arena, gaining the royal family's favor, receiving awards, and joining the military. For decades on the battlefield, he relied on his merits to rise through the ranks and was eventually ennobled as Admiral, becoming a grassroots hero who rose from the imperial lower class. Landis' father had his first son, Landis, with his first wife, but she was sickly and suffered from the mental strain of her husband's long battles. She passed away when Landis was very young. His father was later formally married to a noblewoman arranged by Haino, and they had a second son, Field. Unfortunately, a decade ago, during an alien war, his father died in battle. The second son was incompetent, and Landis, who had been overlooked, began to shine in the military academy, establishing great military achievements and rightfully taking over the position of family head. Landis' account was extremely brief, but Xiao Sa found it fascinating, thinking it was like a "Cinderella" rags-to-riches story. It seemed that this stepmother didn't have a good relationship with Landis, but from his demeanor, he clearly didn't care. After a day of travel, the aroma of the food made Xiao Sa's stomach growl in hunger. He gestured to Landis, signaling "I'm going to start eating," and without any hesitation, he picked up the knife and fork, cutting a piece of pepper-crusted sausage and popping it into his mouth. He sincerely praised, "This is delicious." His actions were so natural, as if he had always been the master of the house. Landis nodded at him. "I'm glad you like it." The other Wenser family members at the long dining table looked at Xiao Sa in surprise. Uncle Claire frowned, showing displeasure, but out of respect for Landis, he didn't say much. It wasn't until the family head, Landis, took a sip of his wine that the other family members began to eat. Chewing his food, Xiao Sa secretly observed the people at the long table. These feudal nobles certainly had clear class distinctions. There were even security teams guarding the front and back doors of the dining room 24 hours a day. There were so many rules just for having a meal together as a family. Before the family head took the first bite, no one else could even touch their utensils. Unless the family head spoke, everyone else remained silent, eating quietly. Landis seemed to have grown up in such a repressive and conservative environment and didn't see anything wrong with it. Xiao Sa shook his head. This atmosphere didn't feel like a "family" at all. It was more like a forced corporate team-building event for a family business. Even the delicious food didn't make it enjoyable. His own family wouldn't be like this. Feeling a pang of pity for Landis, Xiao Sa glanced at him. "That would be quite terrifying." The next moment, the plate of sausages in front of him was taken away at Landis' gesture to the servant. Xiao Sa, who was just about to spear his second sausage with his fork, looked puzzled. Landis personally pushed a plate of ham and egg sandwiches in front of him and said, "That sausage is too greasy and heavily spiced. The capsaicin can slightly numb your mental faculties. It's not suitable for you to eat too much; one portion is enough." Shortly after, at his signal, a servant wheeled over a trolley and began placing dishes in front of Xiao Sa: a poached egg with steak and bacon pasta, red wine caviar, a trio of mushrooms and matsutake platter, plus a carrot milk and bitter melon soup. The presentation was as exquisite as a five-star Michelin meal, though the portions were minuscule. Xiao Sa, ‘...’ The taste wasn't terrible, but after finishing the steak, which was no larger than two palms, he was left chewing on the garnish. He picked up the spoon, scooped some of the milky-orange soup, and put it in his mouth, immediately making a face of disgust. Landis looked at him and said, "This soup contains a high concentration of neuro-alkaloids; it helps to consolidate your mental sea and can reduce irritability and heat. I specially asked the kitchen to make it for you; drink more." "I've arranged for a therapeutic hot spring for you to rest in tonight." It was clear that Landis was indeed keeping his promise, taking meticulous care of him, from his diet to daily needs, as if Xiao Sa was a critically ill patient. Sigh, brother, don't love too much... Xiao Sa wasn't an ungrateful person; well, just endure it, it's only for half a year. Landis is already so pitiful; he should get his way. With that thought, Xiao Sa heroically downed the bowl of soup, using immense willpower to keep from retching. Good heavens, how could there be such vile food in the world?! Landis was surprised by Xiao Sa’s decisive action, thinking, ‘So he enjoys this soup so much.’ Landis mentally noted Xiao Sa’s ‘preference’ and slowly chewed a piece of steak before saying, "In a few days, I'll have a medical team come over to check your health. Don't worry, it's just a routine check-up; I have to do it too." If necessary, we might build a sanatorium in the estate. He didn’t say the latter part aloud to avoid upsetting Xiao Sa’s ‘fragile and sensitive’ emotions. Xiao Sa immediately became wary, cautiously saying, "Actually, my health is fine, and I’m not actually mentally impaired..." He's just a simple alien. Landis was taken aback and frowned. "Then what about your mental entity? Is there something preventing you from manifesting it? If so, we'll need a more detailed examination. I'll go with you to the Royal Capital Hospital." Xiao Sa remained silent for a moment before saying, "Never mind, maybe I do have some disabilities." There was no way he could go to the hospital again. Being dissected upon discovery as an alien was a minor concern, but if the doctors mistook the gland on the back of his neck for a tumor and cut it off, wouldn't he become half a eunuch? Absolutely not! Better to be seen as disabled. Landis asked, "Have you suffered some serious injuries before?" Xiao Sa shook his head. "No, I was born this way. My family is the same." Landis’ gaze grew more sympathetic. It seems to be a hereditary condition in his family, likely caused by his parents' low compatibility match. With the current medical technology in the empire, this genetic condition is currently incurable. But that’s fine. He and Xiao Sa were a 100% match. Their future children won’t suffer the same fate. As long as Xiao Sa lives a bit longer, that’s fine. It seemed that from now on, he would have to pay even more attention to Xiao Sa's health issues. Uncle Claire, seated opposite the long table, quietly observed the conversation between them. He was Landis’ father’s elder brother and had married a noblewoman after the Wenser family rose to power through military achievements. Since both father and son spent most of their time working in the military, they rarely lived in the estate. Almost all the affairs of their territory and family business were managed by these elders. It was expected that Landis would also marry into a prominent noble family to consolidate power. The Lot family was a suitable match they had identified for him. But Haino had ruined it by introducing a 100% match, who was also a low-ranking disabled person. Worse, this young man named Xiao Sa, whom he met today, had an impeccable appearance but seemed quite restless in character. Relying on the favor of the family head, he lacked any sense of respect and hierarchy, which clearly did not align with the Wensers’ interests. Uncle Claire set down his glass, wiped his mouth with a silk handkerchief, and smiled at Xiao Sa with narrowed eyes. "Mr. Xiao Sa, the preparations for your wedding with Landis are almost complete. The royal family, the military, and we all hope that you can get married as soon as possible." "How about next week? That should be fine for you, right?" Landis also turned to look at him, and Xiao Sa nodded casually. "No problem." Uncle Claire drew out his words slowly. "Then do you have any family members coming to the ceremony? We can send a starship to bring them here." Xiao Sa’s hand paused slightly as he picked up the caviar, and he replied calmly, "My family and I encountered an accident during our interstellar travel. I am currently trying to locate them." "Oh. That's unfortunate." Claire shrugged. "I'm sorry to hear that." Landis frowned, his expression darkening. "That's enough, Uncle. Please don't say more." Claire quieted down, giving him a brief smile before continuing his meal. Landis’s displeasure made the atmosphere in the dining room noticeably tense. Worried that Xiao Sa might misinterpret, he changed the subject. "I wasn't sure what dessert you like, so I had the kitchen prepare a variety. Feel free to try them." In truth, Xiao Sa wasn't feeling downcast at all. His strong heart could handle any adverse situation. Since Landis had offered, he wouldn't hesitate. Everyone continued to eat quietly, with only the sounds of clinking cutlery and soft chewing filling the air. Only Xiao Sa, unaffected by Landis’s imposing presence and the estate’s rigid rules, helped himself freely to the fruits and desserts. He even grabbed a truffle chocolate tart that Claire was about to eat. Claire, who had never had anyone dare touch his beloved food, was left speechless. Was this C-class disabled person really being so arrogant on his first visit to Wenser Estate? Seeing this, Eldon, Claire's eldest son, sneered sarcastically. "Mr. Xiao Sa, have you never had high-end desserts before? Should we ask the kitchen to prepare another serving just for you?" Xiao Sa took a bite, shaking his head with a somewhat conflicted expression. "No, this is too sweet." He used to enjoy similar desserts back home, and the kitchen there, knowing his preferences, would make them slightly less sweet. His palate had been spoiled. Eldon scoffed inwardly. What was he trying to pretend? Well, he wouldn't bother arguing with some inexperienced country boy. Noticing the subtle displeasure on Claire and Eldon's faces, Xiao Sa, being considerate, pushed the dessert plate toward them. "There's plenty more. Don't be shy." Eldon choked on his frustration, feeling even more irritated by the mocking glances from his peers. Who would want the food he didn’t want? As if those desserts were so special. Glancing quickly at the family head’s expression, he declined with a forced smile. "No, thank you. Please, go ahead." Xiao Sa raised an eyebrow. It seemed they didn’t have the habit of sharing food among family members. Although for him, it reduced the pleasure of interaction, when in a new place, it was better to respect local customs. So he pushed the plate back—it was quite sweet, but wasting food was not an option. "..." Was he just being courteous? Who was the host and who was the guest? This made him even more aggrieved. A brief incident at the dining table was silently noted by Landis. He knew his uncles and other relatives would disapprove of Xiao Sa. After all, the social climate of the Dawn Empire always favored the strong. They were even more displeased that Landis hadn't signed a prenup with Xiao Sa, which instead granted him significant financial control, diverting some of their interests. But why should he care? Landis's decisions required no one else’s approval. He hadn’t anticipated that his "solitary" young fiancé was even more innocent and good-natured than he had imagined. It was fortunate he had rescued him; if he had remained out there, he would certainly have been bullied. As for these pampered, silver-spoon-born wastrels in the family, it was time to send them to the armed forces to train away the fat accumulated from desserts. As the meal drew to a close, Xiao Sa’s first family gathering at Wenser Estate concluded successfully, with each person harboring their own thoughts. ※※※ It wasn’t noticeable on the starship, but during his stay at the estate, Xiao Sa could tangibly feel how busy Landis was as an Admiral of the Empire. He was gone most of the time, and even when he was home, he was either holding video conferences in the meeting room or processing documents in the study. Fortunately, no matter how busy he was, he always came back in time for dinner with Xiao Sa. Before long, it was the day of the wedding. The usually lifeless Wenser Estate became unprecedentedly lively. The large hall in front of the main building had its flower beds replaced with large red roses, and a long row of landscaped arches lined the main road, adorned with deep red roses. Luxurious cars kept arriving from the main gate, and the airfield was filled with various luxurious limited-edition flying vehicles. The well-trained attendants at the entrance greeted every guest, who were then led to the banquet hall. In the banquet hall, a huge rotating crystal chandelier hung from the five-meter-high ceiling, and the shimmering golden waves were reflected on the red carpet. A symphony orchestra in the music pool played a soothing dance tune. Guests at the banquet were engaged in lively conversation and raising toasts, as intelligent waiters continuously delivered food and drinks. In the reception room, Landis, dressed in a pure black military dress uniform, sat upright on a velvet sofa, with his chief adjutant, Caro, standing beside him. Several influential uncles from the Wenser family were also present. On the opposite sofa sat Duke Lot and an elderly man with an unfamiliar face. "Mr. Kate is a highly experienced AA-grade spiritual healer," introduced Duke Lot to the group. The latter proudly removed his hat and nodded slightly in greeting, his eyes holding a hint of pride. Duke Lot smiled at General Landis. "I heard you once sent someone to request a healer from the Royal Association, but no one responded. Today, I specifically invited Mr. Kate. He holds great respect for General Landis's distinguished military service to the empire and is willing to try." Landis glanced at him, his brow furrowing slightly. He had previously invited healers, and although most were unwilling to take on the risk of S-grade contamination, as a general, he often found healers willing to attempt it for wealth and influence. Unfortunately, all attempts had failed. It was unrealistic to expect an A-grade healer to treat an S-grade case. There was currently no S-grade healer in the Royal Association, only up to 3A. "Thank you, Duke, but I already have a 100% compatible marriage partner," Landis said coldly. "As you can see, the wedding will take place soon, and I do not need—" "Landis," Uncle Clare shook his head in disapproval, "Mr. Xiao Sa is indeed a 100% match, but his condition is known to you. What if his mental strength is not enough to heal you?" "Or what if your condition exceeds his capabilities? Since Duke Lot has brought a healer, wouldn't it be prudent to try?" Uncle Clare spoke slowly, with an unspoken implication that everyone understood—if this healer could help Landis, then there would be no need to marry that C-grade individual. Landis had dealt with many healers, especially those from the Royal Association. Most of them were arrogant and treated soldiers as servants, calling them around despite supplicants offering countless treasures. Waiting for a year or more only to be refused due to high risk was common. Landis had never had a favorable opinion of them. "I'm sorry, but I don't need it," he said, rising impatiently to leave. "Don't you consider Mr. Xiao Sa's well-being? If he knew you had other options but let him be infected and assimilated, would he resent you?" Clare's words successfully made Landis stop in his tracks. He looked grim and, after much thought, turned back to sit in the single sofa again. "Then try again," he said tiredly, pinching the bridge of his nose before looking up at Kate. "Mr. Kate, I must warn you, be prepared for the risk, or I cannot guarantee your safety." "Don't worry, I have plenty of experience treating high-ranking officers," Kate dismissed with a wave of his hand. He had been observing Landis, and there were no signs of organ mutation in his body, indicating that the contamination wasn't particularly severe. He walked to Landis' side, and the black flame suddenly appeared at his feet, with his pet lifting its head, watching the other man alertly and majestically. "Your Highness's little kitten is very beautiful," said Kate with an arrogant smile, "Every powerful mental entity of high-ranking officers I've treated, no matter how fierce they were at the start, eventually became tame and loyal under my control." Some healers sought wealth, but the reason Kate was willing to take such a big risk was that he was addicted to the thrill of seeing powerful figures being manipulated under his control. Wielding the power of life and death over the strong was more attractive than any fortune. Landis’ eyes instantly turned cold, and he was about to lose his temper on the spot. Caro, standing beside him, was even more displeased, glaring at Kate darkly. Duke Lot, startled, quickly stood up to smooth things over. "Ha-ha, Mr. Kate really loves to joke. No time to waste, let's begin." "Apologies, just a small joke," said Kate, putting on the magnetic fiber gloves that could amplify his mental power, "Let's begin then." Duke Lot wiped the sweat off his brow, thinking that if not for his batch of unsellable mechs and his useless youngest son, he wouldn't have gone through the trouble of finding this disagreeable man. But it didn't matter. As long as Kate succeeded, these little frictions wouldn't be a problem. Winning over the Wenser family would make it all worthwhile. Landis took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. If not for Uncle Claire’s words, he would have loved to throw all these people out of the Wenser Estate. In the end, he simply closed his eyes tightly and said in a low voice, "Begin. I hope you truly have the skills." ※※※ At the same time, in the second-floor fitting room. Several racks of brand-new, custom-made suits hung, and accessories such as ties, tie clips, brooches, and watches filled an entire wall. Xiao Sa chose a white wedding suit with silver trim from the array of formal wear. The satin fabric, embellished with scattered silver diamonds, was dazzling under the warm lights. This was the most understated of all the suits. A servant had paired it with a black bow tie. Xiao Sa stood in front of the mirror, looking at his familiar yet strange reflection, and let out a light sigh. He hadn’t expected to marry so soon. He had skipped the flirtation, missed the confession, and had no time for a passionate romance, fast-forwarding directly to a quick marriage, and with a man from another race who lacked glands and pheromones. Although it was a contract marriage, he still felt a sense of absurd unreality. Thinking of Landis, no matter how much he tried to convince himself, Xiao Sa couldn’t see the other man as an Omega. Just imagining the coquettish expression of a little Omega on Landis’ face made his skin crawl. Compared to the soft, sweet, and lovable Omegas, Landis, both in appearance and temperament, was more like an Alpha himself. Fortunately, Landis didn't have Alpha pheromones... Xiao Sa rubbed his chin. Alphas naturally clashed with each other, and genetically, they couldn't be together. From this perspective, Landis seemed more like a Beta without much of a scent, just unable to bear children. He thought, it's better not to have children, to avoid attachments when parting and to not delay the other person's next marriage. Checking the time, Xiao Sa looked at his wristwatch. "Where's Landis?" A servant bowed and said, "The family head is in the reception room." Xiao Sa casually put one hand in his pocket and strolled out of the fitting room. After just a few steps, a servant approached him with a tray of pastries and a glass of lime juice, saying, "Mr. Xiao, the family head instructed us to bring this for you. He's currently tied up in the reception room and asks that you wait for him in the ceremony hall." "Alright." Just as Xiao Sa was about to sip the lime juice, he suddenly caught a faint whiff of pheromones.
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