“Life has been shortened, perhaps due to the automatic activation of the survival mode by genes, like a rejuvenation. Everyone’s body temperature has risen by about one degree, and seeds that were once difficult to survive now have a 90% survival rate. This means there’s hope for Austin,” said Li Erben, his eyes shining with hope, before he rationally added, “But don’t worry, I’ve always taken measures. I wouldn’t let you get pregnant without your consent.”
“Then why have you been so secretive about it? It’s not such a bad thing, is it?”
“That’s because, at that time, to rescue you from being kidnapped, all of Austin’s warriors went to the edge of the black hole with the strongest cosmic radiation, where protective suits were of no use. It was you who changed them. I didn’t want this to become a burden for you.”
Mao An’an whispered, “Did I indirectly shorten your lives…”
Li Erben held her shoulders, “Don’t be downhearted. They are all grateful to you for giving them hope for a new life. A short life is like a fleeting but splendid bloom, far more vibrant than the long, monotonous life we had before. It has rejuvenated the Empire.”
“And what about you? Will you age quickly?”
“I’ve always thought about how to age alongside you as you grow old, so we can hold hands watching the sunset together. I think that would be beautiful. Now, my wish has come true,” Li Erben smiled, “Enough of this, our time is precious, and there are many important things to do. Shall we go for dinner?”
To help Austin through its crisis, Mao An’an donated a healthy egg each month. The seeds of the Austin men, affected by radiation, were particularly vigorous, and the fertilized eggs could grow successfully under artificial cultivation. Each sperm was carefully selected to ensure the offspring would be princesses. Mao An’an calculated that she could provide over four hundred eggs in her lifetime, which should be enough if used sparingly, based on the nobility’s ranks and hereditary titles.
Li Erben: “Those who don’t have enough can just die.”
Mao An’an: “Easy for you to say.”
Li Erben: “I’m not standing, I’m lying on you.”
Mao An’an: “Aren’t you standing down there?!”
Li Erben: “…!!”
Epilogue
