Chapter 899: Public Sentiment and Recognition (Thanks to Baifa Sanqianzhang for the patron)

Chapter 899: The Hearts of the People and Their Recognition (Thanks to the Mighty Leader of the White-Haired Three Thousand-Li Zong)

Information traveled across the cosmos at a speed that defied comprehension, spreading like wildfire through every star system. In this age of interstellar connectivity, every player carried a communicator, none of them missing this seismic news. Within the shattered ring sector of the forum, a throng of legionnaires discussed the matter with fervor.

Having weathered three iterations of the game, players had grown accustomed to the elusive nature of NPCs, their movements unpredictable. Beyond the functional roles of merchants and other such characters, many figures did not linger in one place indefinitely. A player might encounter someone one day, only to find that person had relocated by the next.

Though this unpredictability occasionally proved inconvenient, the majority of players cherished this feature. Each character possessed their own agenda, rendering them eerily lifelike.

As the Black Star Legion expanded, Han Xiao had diminished his daily interactions with players, establishing himself as a factional leader since version 2.0. By now, legionnaires had grown accustomed to their commander being unseen, a phantom who appeared only when he wished. They had grown familiar with the notion that their leader might vanish for weeks, only to resurface with a sensational announcement.

Discussing their commander’s exploits had become one of the legionnaires’ pastimes.

On the forum, numerous players posted idle musings about the Heretic God’s downfall. At this juncture, players were still far removed from the Heretic God’s tier, who remained an NPC of later versions, untouched by direct player interaction. For most star systems, he was merely a backdrop figure—his backstory legendary, a formidable antagonist whose deeper aspects remained shrouded in mystery.

Only those in the Central Sea’s three star systems knew more about him. A handful of awakened players harboring chaotic, evil inclinations avoided all narrative quests, instead carving a path of destruction, becoming wanted criminals who fled to the lawless reaches of the cosmos, seeking refuge with the Fallen Ark. Yet they never earned the privilege of meeting the Heretic God, only brushing against the edges of his faction’s influence.

Owing to their limited understanding of him, the Heretic God’s fall barely stirred the players’ hearts, its impact paling beside the Luminous Star Campaign. That campaign had involved two ruling civilizations, representing the ultimate factions in players’ eyes. As for the Heretic God’s demise, most players never truly grasped its significance, seeing it as merely a powerful, enigmatic figure crushed by the alliance of three great civilizations—nothing more.

Han Xiao’s inbox brimmed with routine complaints about his leadership.

“The commander’s off causing another ruckus again—how idle he must be.”

“Ugh, I’d love to visit the Central Sea, but these site managers keep us stuck in the Shattered Ring. He’s off gallivanting while we toil alone.”

“Could this event herald a new storyline?”

“Unlikely. I suspect it’s a footnote to the Luminous Star Campaign. The Heretic God participated in the assault, only to be captured by the three civilizations. Since players didn’t partake, it’s merely background lore.”

“Trash game—full of CG (laughable).”

“No animated cutscenes and I’m doomed.”

“I’m the Heretic God—I got arrested by the three civilizations yesterday. Need 5,000 Inara for bail. Can I borrow some? Once I’m free, I’ll fly you around. My account is 480xxx…”

“Damn it, I joined the Fallen Ark, and they took my patriarch! Black Star Legion, you’re screwed!”

“Rolled out of the Central Sea, huh?”

“The Constellation Corridor trembled.”

Players’ banter was rife with mirth, and Han Xiao’s lips curved into a smile.

While sifting through the absurd posts, Han Xiao noticed a thread suddenly rising to prominence, its title: *The Meaning Behind the Heretic God’s Fall*. The heat of its popularity surged rapidly.

He clicked on it, and the author’s ID—*Zhang Jian Ji*—stopped him cold.

“…What a lunatic!”

Han Xiao’s mouth twitched in horror.

Indeed, players excelled at the bizarre. He felt unworthy in comparison.

Taking a breath, Han Xiao read on:

“Brothers of the Legion, it seems most of you dismiss the Heretic God’s fall as inconsequential. I once felt the same, but today, I encountered something extraordinary that revealed its true significance.

Here’s what happened: I recently took a small mercenary job, escorting a long-range vessel through the Gobi Star Cluster—those interstellar tour groups love hiring our Black Star Legion these days. As long as a Legionnaire is aboard, most space pirates won’t attack.

The mission proceeded uneventfully. I passed the time scrolling through the forum, and we reached our destination without incident. After receiving payment, I disembarked at the dock, when several passengers from other star systems approached me, handing over items and urging me to deliver them to the Legion Commander [Image] [Image].

As shown, these weren’t valuable trinkets—just simple handmade crafts. Their descriptions read, ‘A heartfelt gift,’ akin to a flag, triggering a corresponding side quest [Image].

I’d never spoken to them. They’d sought me out on their own. They explained their civilization had once suffered grievously at the Heretic God’s hands, losing countless kin. Grateful Black Star had eradicated him, so they crafted these tokens of thanks, hoping to pass them to the Legion Commander.

They were emotive, warm-hearted individuals. I recorded their entire exchange, full of passion and tears of gratitude. I recommend viewing it—it’s deeply moving [Video]…

Though just a minor job, it struck me with a different meaning. How many across the universe have suffered under the Heretic God? How many now owe their salvation to the Legion Commander? The number is staggering! This incident illuminated the true weight of his fall—not mere background lore, but justice delivered to a world ravaged by tyranny.”

The commander had done something monumental. Honestly, seeing these NPCs’ tearful gratitude, I felt a surge of satisfaction.

Brothers, I’ve said it—I salute the commander’s magnificence!!

P.S.: To underscore my reverence, I’m buying a name-change card to add ‘Great’ to my ID!”

Han Xiao scrolled further, noting the flood of replies:

“Adding ‘Great’ suits him—though it exposes you as a die-hard fan.”

“I suspect he’s driving without a license, but no proof.”

“Just watched the video—his voice and expression were heartfelt. I give it a hundred ‘likes.’”

Players joked, some agreed, others mocked.

“I’m reminded of the Xenogenesis Catastrophe. The commander ventured into the stars for his homeworld, bringing back reinforcements. He’s always been responsible.”

“True. Though he once dealt in treachery, in crises he’s reliable. I recall his speech—it was electrifying.”

Players chose factions not just for benefits, but for values. Their actions weren’t purely transactional; they sought psychological fulfillment.

Han Xiao’s deeds had earned him a strong reputation. Many stayed in the Black Star Legion not just for the lucrative rewards, but because they admired their leader.

Now, the Legion had earned gratitude from countless civilizations. Players felt honored, witnessing the passengers’ tearful thanks in the post and video. Pride and achievement swelled within them.

Han Xiao reread the post, scratching his head. He’d underestimated its resonance.

Like the post said, so many species across the cosmos had endured the Heretic God’s tyranny. Under the Crimson Empire’s propaganda, these survivors viewed him as a savior. This fame differed from his previous renown—once, interstellar citizens knew him for strength and status, a formidable figure wielding influence from the top. Now, the Heretic God’s fall had granted him something deeper: the hearts of the people, their recognition.

One effect of public favor was attracting talent. After all, some individuals couldn’t be swayed by mere profit—they were the exceptional ones.

Cosmic-level legendry wasn’t to be trifled with. The Heretic God was indeed a hidden gem… Han Xiao felt uplifted.

“The Heretic God had made countless enemies across the universe. How many seek vengeance? And what of the renowned NPCs who opposed him in later versions—might they flock to me?”

Han Xiao stroked his chin, lost in thought.

…

After a fortnight’s journey, the ship finally returned to the Black Star Legion’s headquarters, docking at the designated pier.

Stepping off, Han Xiao spotted Hala waiting.

“You came specifically to meet me?” he chuckled.

“Hmph.” She flicked her red curls, feigning nonchalance as she surveyed him. “Looks like the Heretic God didn’t trouble you much. You’re still intact.”

Han Xiao raised an eyebrow, grinning. “You’re worried about me?”

“It’s my duty as the Vanguard Officer Captain.” She wore a blank expression.

Han Xiao smiled, nodding to Frank and the others to wait, then turned back to Hala, gesturing for her to follow.

“Here’s a gift for you.”

“Not particularly interesting.” Yet she followed him without hesitation.

They reached the combat training chamber, the door sealing behind them. Han Xiao faced her, arms crossed.

“I obtained something from the Heretic God—items that enhance abilities. You possess extraordinary potential. This gift will ease your ascent to A-class status and raise your ceiling.”

Hala, ever drawn to strength, perked up. “Such a fine thing—why don’t you use it yourself?”

"Hmm, she probably won't be able to use it." Han Xiao shook his head. "Besides, you're my top choice—I thought of you first."

The character card for [Ability Enhancement] granted three uses, and Han Xiao had already considered it aboard the ship. Harra's latent potential for abilities was already exceptionally high, and since she was his most trusted subordinate, giving her this card made perfect sense. The sooner he nurtured Harra into an S-level powerhouse, the more aligned it would be with his interests.

"Hmph."

Harra's lips curved into a brief, joyful smile before vanishing like a fleeting breeze. She set down the arm she had been cradling to her chest and spread her hands. "Alright then, what exactly am I supposed to do?"

"Don't move. Let me handle this."

Han Xiao activated the [Ability Enhancement] character card. A phantom of the divine being flickered behind him, and he raised his palm, where dazzling white energy particles hovered.

He approached Harra, towering over her by nearly half a head as he bent his head to gaze down. His fingertip pressed against her forehead, and the energy surged into every pore of her body, swirling within her brain.

Harra let out a groan, her body convulsing as she promptly fainted. Han Xiao swiftly scooped her up under his arm, cradling her form.

He pressed his palm against her chest, checking her pulse, and concluded she wouldn't awaken anytime soon.

"She actually fainted—I thought she'd be comparable to the enhanced ability serum."

Glancing at Harra lying in his arms, Han Xiao shook his head. With a firm push of his arm, he hoisted her onto his shoulder like a sack of flour.

Exiting the training room, he disabled the door access and slipped into Harra's quarters.

Her room was as sparsely furnished as his own. He laid her gently on the bed and draped a blanket over her. Just as he was about to leave, his eyes caught sight of three photo frames on the table.

Han Xiao examined them closely. One was a group photo with Oreru, another with Aimer, and the third—himself with Harra. Beyond those, the room held no other adornments.

He stood silently for a moment, then reached out to flip the photo of himself and Harra face-down onto the table. He switched off the light and exited the room.

...

After a long while, Harra slowly opened her eyes to find herself in the room, wrapped in a blanket, her clothes neatly arranged.

"Someone must have brought me here, right?"

The drowsiness faded as Harra sat up, rubbing her eyes. She immediately channeled her divine energy, feeling the shift in her abilities, her eyes flashing with a hint of awe.

"Like magic blocks—so much easier to run abilities now, and my ceiling's higher... Hmm. How long was I asleep? I should go find him."

She pulled back the blanket and rose to her feet. That's when she noticed something amiss—the three photo frames on the table, one of them lying face-down.

She propped it back up, realizing it was the photo of herself and Han Xiao that had been toppled.

Harra's gaze flickered, her spirits buoyed by the enhanced abilities dissipating like morning mist.

"...Hmph!"