Chapter 98

After saving Weiguang Town, Xu Tiancai shot to fame, becoming a hero in the eyes of all. His exploits spread throughout the universe, and people regarded him with deep reverence and praise. Yet, behind this glory, Xu Tiancai began to sense some subtle changes. As his fame grew, his social engagements and obligations increased. Certain factions within the Cosmic Alliance began to approach him, attempting to draw him into their camps. In these settings, Xu Tiancai had to wear a mask of smiles, dealing with all sorts of people. He began to learn how to offer platitudes and perform superficial gestures to maintain his image and status. At a high-level meeting of the Cosmic Alliance, Xu Tiancai was invited to give a speech as a guest. Standing on the podium and looking out at the sea of eyes in the audience, a complex emotion welled up within him. He knew that these people were not just listening to his words; they were scrutinizing him, assessing his value. He began to deliberately emphasize his achievements and his contributions to the Cosmic Alliance, using flowery language to package his remarks. When the speech concluded, thunderous applause erupted, and people vied to express their praise and admiration. Yet, Xu Tiancai felt a sense of emptiness in his heart; he felt as if he were slowly losing himself.