Blue Star Celebration, Future Planning

Among those present were his familiar comrades-in-arms, his students whom he had personally trained, and countless heroes who had fought to preserve civilization to this day.

Lin Yi raised his hand, and the applause gradually subsided.

"Gentlemen," Lin Yi said slowly, "It's been over forty years."

A simple sentence, yet it seemed to carry a thousand pounds of weight, instantly pulling everyone's thoughts back to that dark and bloody era.

The room became so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

"We have lost our familiar homes, lost our beloved family members, and are struggling to survive on the edge of despair."

Lin Yi's tone was calm, yet it carried a heavy weight of emotion. "We once thought that was the end of civilization. But we did not give up. Every single one of us, whether we were soldiers fighting on the Frontline or civilians holding the line in the rear; whether we were researchers pouring our hearts and souls into our work or administrative officials maintaining order, each and every one of us used our sweat, our wisdom, and our courage to pull civilization back from the brink of disaster, bit by bit."

Then, Lin Yi paused slightly, his eyes seeming to shimmer with starlight as he gazed into the endless future. "Today, we stand here not only to celebrate the victory of a war, but also to proclaim that Blue Star Civilization, having undergone trials and tribulations, has been reborn!"

"We have brought an old era to an end with our own hands, and we have also ushered in a New Era that leads to the stars!"

"The hardships and glories of the past will become the foundation for us to stride towards a wider world. And the future," Lin Yi's voice suddenly rose, "Will surely bring even more challenges, and even more brilliance. Beyond the sea of stars, awaits our conquest and creation!"

A thunderous round of applause erupted once again, and many people had tears in their eyes—a remembrance of past sacrifices and an expression of boundless hope for the future.

As the applause subsided, Lin Yi turned slightly and gestured to Aurelia beside him, "Please." "Now, please welcome our guardian of Blue Star Civilization, Ms. Aurelia Sheena, to say a few words."

Aurelia stepped forward, her stunning beauty appearing even more ethereal under the lights, her icy blue eyes gazing gently at the crowd below.

She bowed slightly, performing an elegant Spirit Race greeting, her clear voice resounding throughout the hall:

"It is an honor to share this joy of the rebirth of civilization with you all at this moment."

Her opening remarks were simple and sincere. "Over the long years, as a guardian, I have witnessed the rise and fall of the Blue Star Civilization many times. But only this time, under the leadership of His Excellency Lin Yi and through everyone's indomitable struggle, have I witnessed a miracle of a civilization emerging from dire straits. This deeply moves me and fills me with pride."

Her tone shifted, a faint smile appearing on her face, "As a guardian, I have also prepared a small gift for this celebration, to express my sentiments and wish that the future of Blue Star Civilization will be as brilliant as the Milky Way."

Having said that, she gently waved her slender, jade-like hands in front of her, as if plucking invisible strings.

In an instant, specks of emerald green light appeared out of thin air, as if they had come to life, fluttering and dancing, precisely converging in front of everyone present.

The light faded, and a strange and beautiful flower floated silently before everyone.

The flower is about the size of a palm, resembling an orchid but not quite. Its petals have a translucent, glassy texture, and inside, it seems as if countless tiny Star Radiance is slowly flowing.

The flowers, without stems or leaves, floated naturally, emitting a refreshing fragrance. The fragrance was not strong, but it seemed to have a direct effect on the soul, bringing peace of mind and making one's thoughts more active.

A subtle, rhythmic pattern emanates from the flowers.

"This flower is called ' Star Language Glazed Orchid,'" Aurelia's voice rang out at the right moment, clarifying for everyone, "It is a rare flower unique to our Spirit Race, and it is quite beneficial to those at the Star Core level in comprehending the rules of heaven and earth."

She explained in detail, "You can use it in two ways. First, you can consume it directly. The spiritual energy of the rules it contains will erupt all at once, significantly enhancing your ability to comprehend the rules for the next hour, which may help you break through a long-standing bottleneck."

"Secondly," she continued, "If there's no immediate need to break through the bottleneck, it can be placed in the quiet room where you cultivate daily, or carried with you in a specially made psionic box. In this way, it can continuously emit faint fluctuations for about three months, subtly nourishing the soul and enhancing your Rule Comprehension. Although the effect is not as intense as taking it orally, it is superior in its long-lasting and gentle nature."

This gift is undeniably valuable.

Especially for Star Core level powerhouses who urgently need to improve their strength, the "Star Language Glazed Orchid" is a treasure, whether for breakthroughs at critical moments or for long-term cultivation assistance.

As everyone gazed at the dreamlike, ethereal flower before them and felt the strange, soul-cleansing energy emanating from it, expressions of delight appeared on their faces.

"Ms. Aurelia, this is too precious!" Li Zhenguo couldn't help but speak on behalf of everyone.

Aurelia smiled and shook her head, "Compared to what you have all done for the survival of civilization, this small token is insignificant. I hope that in the future, we can walk side by side and witness together the Blue Star Civilization create more and greater miracles in the sea of stars."

Her humble demeanor and sincere words instantly won everyone's favor and approval.

Enthusiastic applause and heartfelt thanks echoed through the hall once again, bringing the atmosphere to a new climax.

Lin Yi watched all this with a smile. After the applause subsided, he took the lead and said loudly, "The Guardians' generous gift is something we should all remember. Today is a day for celebration. In addition, I have instructed Xuanji to compile and send some basic information about the universe and the starry sea we are about to face to everyone's personal terminals after the banquet."

His gaze swept across the room, his tone becoming more relaxed. "Today, let's not discuss official business, nor dwell on the hardships ahead. Let's simply drink heartily, to toast our compatriots who have returned, to our indomitable civilization, and to our own rebirth and future!"

"I hereby declare the banquet open!"

The cheerful music started playing again, and fine wines and delicacies were served, making the banquet atmosphere even more lively and harmonious.

People came forward to toast Lin Yi and Aurelia, expressing their respect and congratulating each other.

--

The next day, at nine o'clock in the morning.

Inside the core decision-making meeting room at the headquarters of the Blue Star Commonwealth Headquarters, the atmosphere was completely different from the celebration of the previous night, becoming serious and focused.

The oval conference table was filled with top officials from the Blue Star Community, representatives from major regions, and about twenty Star Core level powerhouses.

Everyone sat upright, with a personal light screen projected in front of them, displaying the <Preliminary Analysis Report on the Basic Overview of Interstellar Society and the Territory of the Human Race (Purple Gold Star Union)> compiled and sent by Xuanji.

Everyone present was at least at the Stardust level or higher, possessing physical and Soul Power far exceeding that of ordinary people, and extremely strong information processing abilities. Therefore, even though they drank heartily last night, no one experienced a hangover.

In addition, Xuanji's excellent information summarization ability meant that this large but well-organized report had already been digested and absorbed by everyone before the meeting even began.

Lin Yi sat in the main seat, his gaze calmly sweeping over everyone, and went straight to the point. "Everyone has finished reading the information. What are your thoughts on the star system our Blue Star Civilization is about to enter, and on the Purple Gold Star Union we will face?"

After a brief silence, Li Zhenguo, sitting in the first seat to Lin Yi's right, slowly put down his electronic pen. His brow furrowed slightly, and he spoke in a deep voice, "Commander, everyone. After reviewing this information, my strongest feeling is, first and foremost, a sense of crisis."

His voice echoed in the quiet conference room, resonating with everyone present.

"The vastness of the universe far exceeds our previous imagination. Civilizations abound, and powerful beings are everywhere. Although our Blue Star Civilization has achieved a Level 5 rating, in the vast sea of stars, we are probably just an infant that has just stepped out of its swaddling clothes."

Li Zhenguo's tone carried the keen insight of a veteran politician.

"The data shows that our Human Race civilization is currently in a phase of rapid rise, but this does not mean that the external environment is peaceful. On the contrary, precisely because we are in a period of growth, the external pressure will be considerable. And internally..."

He paused, his fingertip tracing across the light screen, bringing up the section on internal factions within the Purple Gold Star Union: "Internally, it's not a monolithic entity. Various forces and families are deeply entrenched, and competition and even infighting are everywhere."

"This reminds me of the difficult years our Xia Country went through. At that time, although the country was striving to rise, it was surrounded by powerful enemies. While the upper echelons were focused on external struggles and development, in some dark corners within the country, all sorts of demons and monsters, and black forces, were also stirring up trouble, waiting for their chance to strike."

He looked up at Lin Yi, a hint of relief in his voice. "However, thankfully, we have Commander Lin Yi. Commander Lin has achieved a Level 7 personal rating and has even been accepted as a disciple by a deity. This is like raising a bright flag representing 'potential' and 'background' on our small, still rather rudimentary ship that has just set sail. In the early stages of our development, this flag will make many ill-intentioned eyes hesitate, making us seem less vulnerable to bullying."

As soon as Li Zhenguo finished speaking, Zhou Donglai, sitting opposite him, picked up the conversation, nodding vigorously and using a more vivid analogy:

"Chief Li is right. It's like a poor family in a remote town. Although they're destitute, they suddenly produce a top scorer in the national college Gaokao! Once the news spreads, even the town's usual thugs and bullies will have to think twice before messing with this family, considering the attention and power that the 'top scorer' title might attract. This family will no longer be someone anyone can just trample on. In fact, their wealthier neighbors will even come up to them to curry favor and build good relations."

He abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming firm. "However! The history of our Xia Country has taught us one thing: relying on ourselves is better than relying on others. It's absolutely impossible to rely solely on others' strength; we must be strong ourselves! If we want to truly stand firm and avoid being devoured alive, possessing our own powerful military is absolutely indispensable."

Li Zhenguo has now relinquished his position in Xia Country, and Zhou Donglai taken over.

He is currently primarily responsible for the political affairs of the Blue Star Community, specifically serving as Chief Administrative Officer.

That's why Zhou Donglai addressed him as Chief Li.

As for Lin Yi...

His position is the First Commander of the Blue Star Community.

Following Zhou Donglai's speech, high-level representatives from other countries and regions also expressed their views.

Some emphasized the urgency of introducing technology and cultivating talent.

Some are focused on how to maximize their profits in the Star Sea Trade and avoid being exploited.

Others expressed concern about the potential cultural shock and clash of values.

However, everyone's consensus focused on three points: first, the contradictory feelings of both yearning for and being wary of the vast universe; second, the recognition that Lin Yi's level 7 evaluation and identity as a disciple of a deity were the most valuable "protective charms" in the early stages; and third, the unanimous agreement on the extreme importance of establishing their own martial power as soon as possible.

Seeing that the discussion was almost over, Lin Yi gently tapped the table to draw everyone's attention.

"Everyone's views are insightful and hit the nail on the head," he concluded. "Based on this consensus, I now announce several important decisions."

"First," Lin Yi's gaze sharpened, "As everyone has said, we must have our own fist. Therefore, I have decided to register a Mercenary Group in the name of the Blue Star Civilization within the Galactic Mercenary Alliance. It will be our first sharp blade as we step into the starry sea, responsible for acquiring resources, accumulating experience, expanding our network, and at the same time, a crucible for training and cultivating our own strong individuals."

This news did not cause much surprise; many people had already guessed this after learning about the major powers.

"Second."

Lin Yi looked at Aurelia, who was sitting quietly beside him, "Ms. Aurelia, and the Xina Family behind her, will become our Blue Star Civilization's most steadfast ally in the Star Sea. The Xina Family possesses power including five Star Domain level expert, as well as vast financial and technological reserves. Ms. Aurelia herself will serve as the vice- Commander of our Mercenary Group."

Initially, when Lin Yi the Xina Family would become allies, everyone listened attentively as usual.

However, when he then revealed the specific strength of the Xina Family, it immediately caused a great stir in the conference room.

"Star Domain level expert, and five of them?"

Five Star Domain level?!

"Oh My God"

Exclamations arose from different corners.

Everyone already knows what Star Domain level expert means in the universe; they are terrifying beings who can sit in charge of a star domain and annihilate stars with a wave of their hand.

Lin Yi, currently the strongest being in the Blue Star Civilization, has reached the Star Domain level in his Rule Comprehension, but his actual energy level is still at the Star Core. And the Xina Family actually has a total of five such beings?!

This is no longer just providing help in times of need; it's practically delivering a warm fortress to travelers still struggling through the snowstorm.

Li Zhenguo took a deep breath, trying to calm his turbulent emotions, and looked at Aurelia with a solemn gaze.

In truth, everyone knew perfectly well that the reason the Xina Family was betting so heavily was not because of the current state of Blue Star Civilization, but because of Lin Yi, who had created countless miracles, been accepted as a disciple by the Eternal Divinity, and whose future was limitless.

This is an investment based on a long-term perspective, a high-stakes gamble on stocks with tremendous potential.

Regardless, this investment and alliance will benefit the entire Blue Star Civilization.

Sitting in the back row, Chen Yu's eyes widened, his mouth slightly agape. A thought, both extremely disrespectful and incredibly apt, flashed through his mind. "My goodness, our boss's charm is off the charts! This isn't just finding a helper; it's like a rich woman bringing her entire family to our door! And she comes with five Star Domain level henchmen and trillions in assets!"

He quickly lowered his head, afraid that Lin Yi would see the strange expression on his face, but in his heart he admired Lin Yi immensely.

Zhou Donglai was even more excited. As the former military commander of Xia Country, he had been extremely concerned about national defense. No one cared more about military defense capabilities than him.

He exclaimed excitedly, "Five Star Domain level! Excellent! Now, our 'Top Scholar Family' not only produced a top scholar, but we also suddenly have five renowned generals overseeing our household. Let's see who dares to easily lay a finger on us!"

Zhou Donglai knew perfectly well who these five "generals" were after, but that didn't stop him from being excited.

Although his words were crude, they vividly expressed the sentiments of everyone.

The sense of crisis of being "poor and blank" that they had felt earlier was greatly diminished at this moment by the strong external support attracted by Lin Yi's personal potential.

Although they still lag behind the deeply entrenched behemoths of the Purple Gold Star Union, at least they are no longer the newly emerging civilization that can be manipulated at will and has no power to fight back.

The difference between them is like heaven and earth.

Aurelia also stood up at the opportune moment and bowed slightly to everyone.

"Although the Xina Family suffered misfortune and had to flee to distant lands, the alliance with the Blue Star Civilization and with Commander Lin Yi is a beacon of hope for our family in the darkness."

"What we bring is not only our own power and wealth, but also the knowledge, technology, and understanding of all races in the universe that our Spirit Race have accumulated over countless years. We will share everything with the Silver Moon Blue, growing together and sharing both glory and hardship."

Her words were sincere and powerful. Although everyone knew that Lin Yi was the core of the alliance, she humbled herself so much and positioned the cooperation as "growing together," which completely won the favor of everyone present.

A round of enthusiastic applause erupted again, this time a welcome to the allies, a sign of trust, and unwavering confidence in the future.

After the applause subsided, Lin Yi raised his hand to signal everyone to be quiet, and steered the conversation back to the main topic.

"Powerful allies are a valuable asset, but ultimately, the long-term stability of civilization must be built upon its own strong foundation. Therefore, establishing our own armed forces is of utmost urgency."

He surveyed the room and began to elaborate on the decision he and Aurelia had made after their discussions. "Regarding the Mercenary Group, after in-depth discussions with Vice- Commander Aurelia, we have now finalized the basic framework."

"First, the name."

With a touch of nostalgia for the past and anticipation for the future, Lin Yi said, "I've decided to name the Mercenary Group the East Peak Mercenary Group."

The moment the name "Eastern Edge" was uttered, the eyes of everyone present, especially those who had graduated from the East Peak Military Academy with Lin Yi Xia Country, such as Zhou Yuxuan and Chen Yu, lit up instantly, and a surge of passion rushed to their hearts.

This name carries their memories of their beginnings, symbolizes the starting point where their talents first emerged, and is also a tribute to and inheritance of the spirit of their homeland in the East and their alma mater!

"Eastern Edge. Great! That's a good name!"

Chen Yu couldn't help but let out a low roar, his fists clenched tightly, his previous wild thoughts instantly replaced by surging fighting spirit.

Lin Yi continued, "This time, Eastern Edge will be given a deeper meaning. It represents that our Blue Star Civilization comes from the east of the Human Race's territory, and it also signifies that we will become the vanguard of the entire Human Race. I hope that in the future, this name can resound throughout the universe."

"The Mercenary Group will adopt a 'core-periphery' structure. The initial core members will consist of existing Star Core level powerhouses on Blue Star, as well as some powerful members of the Xina Family. Vice- Commander Aurelia will be fully responsible for the Mercenary Group's daily management, mission acceptance, personnel training, and logistical support."

He looked at Aurelia, who nodded gracefully and took over the conversation.

"The East Peak Mercenary Group's initial strategy is 'steady expansion, reputation first.' We will prioritize missions with manageable risks, aiming to quickly accumulate alliance Points, build reputation, and familiarize ourselves with the Star Sea environment."

"At the same time, we will establish a strict personnel selection and training system to ensure that every core member is not only a powerful warrior, but also a qualified interstellar mercenary. The initial training plan includes reinforcement of the interstellar common language, mercenary code of conduct, basic starship operation, adaptation to combat in different environments, and team cooperation combat drills."

Lin Yi further emphasized, "The Mercenary Group is not an independent armed force; it will be the tentacles and swords of Blue Star Civilization extending into the starry sea. Xuanji will assist in establishing an internal contribution point system, where members' contributions will be directly linked to their personal rewards and contributions to the civilization."

"Following the meeting, the preparation for the establishment of the East Peak Mercenary Group will commence immediately. The Mercenary Group will open applications to all Star Core level and Stardust level members who have mastered unique skills. Star Core level will become official members after selection, while Stardust level members will become probationary members."

Seeing that no one had any objections or additions, Lin Yi continued to announce the next decision.

"Third, based on the Level 5 rating reward, the Purple Gold Star Union will utilize planetary engines to relocate the entire Blue Star to an energy-rich region within its territory, while simultaneously constructing a stargate in Blue Star's orbit. At that time, Blue Star will become an administrative, commercial, and transportation hub for a vast star system."

This means that Blue Star will undergo a dramatic geographical and environmental transformation, but it also brings unprecedented development opportunities.

Everyone felt excited, but also couldn't help feeling a bit complicated about "going on a long journey" back to their hometown.

"At last."

Lin Yi paused for a moment before slowly saying, "When the Purple Gold Star Union's guides arrive and conduct civilization registration, I suggest that our Blue Star Civilization officially enter the Star Sea under the name ' Silver Moon Blue '."

"Silver Moon Blue"

The crowd murmured the name, the imagery of the Milky Way, the moon, and their homeland's azure hues both beautiful and profound, carrying a deep longing for their homeland and aspirations for the future.

"A name is just the beginning."

Lin Yi stood up, placed his hands on the table, leaned forward, and with a gaze as intense as a wildfire, swept over each of the excited attendees before delivering his final summary.

"We have no time to dwell on joy or fear. From this moment on, forget the glories and pains of the past, and give it our all to create a world of our own in the sea of stars, for ' Silver Moon Blue,' and for ourselves."

"Where the Eastern Edge blows, the sea of stars can be reached!"

"Gentlemen, get ready."