The Interstellar Human Military Junta, Faranis Black Hole.
Countless Disruptor Cruisers stood neatly arranged in three columns, their bows pointing toward the L-Gate glowing green.
A Science Ship hovered in orbit around the L-Gate, extending intelligent robotic arms to perform complex operations on it.
The miniature black hole at the center of the Gateway absorbed the surrounding light. The Science Ship was so close that light had already begun to distort around its edges.
Xi Yan watched everything from the Ring World tens of thousands of light-years away. He held the Little Secretary of State's hand tightly, and the girl returned his grip with unwavering resolve.
Veronica stood beside the Marshal with a serene smile, gently wrapping her arms around his left arm and nestling it against her ample bosom.
"Whatever the outcome, Marshal, we will support you," she said softly.
"Your business is my business. I'll always be on your side!" Ailiveer looked up at the expressionless Xi Yan and spoke firmly.
Xi Yan could not help breaking into a warm smile.
"Thank you..."
The Yan Family Sisters were both understanding subordinates-and wives.
They would only stand steadfastly beside him, never asking too many questions. Their support for Xi Yan was unconditional.
They had only one request: that the Marshal never abandon them.
Xi Yan's particular interest in the L-Cluster was common knowledge among the Empire's upper ranks. He had declared that someone he would pursue for his entire life existed there-an eternal companion and the finest Leader.
The Yan Family Sisters had no objections to this. They would not interfere with the Marshal's choice.
"But if that Miss Gray Tempest dares to toy with your feelings, I-I'll make her pay!" Ailiveer looked up at Xi Yan's face, clenching her delicate fist.
Xi Yan chuckled despite himself and raised