The morning mist had yet to fully disperse over Zhanjiang Port. A salt-laden sea breeze carried the bustle of the docks around the hull of the Eastern Voyage. The official East Asian Republic cruise liner was white from bow to stern, its enormous hull neatly proportioned. The republic's flag flew above its decks, and its route was clearly marked along its side-Zhanjiang, East Asia, to Hamburg, Eurasian Republic. As a dedicated vessel for friendly exchanges between the two nations, every departure drew attention. That very visibility had become the most crucial element of Akira Hawke's Star-Hiding Plan.
Holding Lacus's hand, Akira slowly climbed the gangway. He wore a simple dark gray casual suit, trading the sharp authority of his uniform for a refined composure. An inconspicuous silver cuff link was fastened discreetly at his wrist: a secret signal transmitter for contacting the Starry Sky and Andrew's squad. Lacus wore an ivory knitted dress, her long hair loosely pinned behind her head and her makeup understated. Her usual dazzling presence had given way to a quiet gentleness, but determination and warmth still lingered in her blue eyes as she gazed at Akira's profile.
Behind them, Li Bing and Natasha stood among the well-wishers on the waterfront in civilian clothes, watching their departing figures with somber eyes. Their terminals remained on encrypted channels as they stayed alert for anything unusual. In a nearby dock, the Starry Sky's submersion module had finished its checks. Shiho, Luna, and Meirin stood on the bridge, watching the Eastern Voyage intently through the periscope. Luna gripped the railing, worry filling her eyes. Meirin leaned beside her, murmuring, "Akira, please come back safely." Shiho remained composed, checking their underwater extraction route while quietly reassuring them, though the slight tension in her jaw betrayed her own concern.
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