Exploring the North Sea

He had brought Fatima along because she was a person from ancient times and might prove useful.

But before he went to explore the North Sea...

Blue Star held a ceremony for Chen Xia. After all, he had performed deeds that would live forever, and he had been busy away from home lately. His return was a rare occasion.

When Chen Xia emerged from the Star Realm aboard his spaceship...

At the entrance to the base in the Giant Deer Star Realm...

The place had become a sea of flags and flowers.

The crowd that had come to welcome him erupted in cheers that shook the mountains and surged like a roaring sea.

"Holy Lord Chen!"

"Holy Lord!"

"Holy Lord Chen!"

"Holy Lord Chen is finally back!"

Tens of thousands of people gathered in the plaza's spectator area, waving the Federation's blue flags emblazoned with stars and shouting his name until their voices grew hoarse.

Their faces shone with excitement, reverence, and the wild joy of having survived to see peace.

Children perched on their fathers' shoulders, their little hands waving tiny flags with all their might.

Young people had painted Federation emblems on their faces, their eyes burning with fervor.

The elderly had tears in the corners of their eyes. Having lived through the dark years when alien races threatened their borders, they understood better than anyone how hard-won this victory was.

On either side of the passage stood an honor guard composed of the Federation's finest guards. The moment Chen Xia appeared, they saluted in perfect unison, their metal boot heels striking the ground with a crisp, thunderous sound. The military band struck up the stirring, newly composed Federation Triumphal Song, its melody ringing throughout the starport.

In a rare departure from his usual attire, Chen Xia wore