In Upper New York Bay, a five-deck luxury cruise ship sailed along the Hudson River, streamers fluttering, balloons floating overhead, and laughter flowing through the air.
Standing on the deck and looking out into the distance, the first thing that caught the eye was the torch-bearing Statue of Liberty. Along both shores, skyscrapers stood like forests, and the water shimmered in the sunlight.
Back in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries, when waves of immigration had risen, seeing the Statue of Liberty for the first time and then bursting into cheers that stirred the whole ship had become an iconic classic scene in countless films.
On this luxury cruise ship owned by Umbrella, cheerful music echoed overhead, while the rich scent of champagne hung in the air. The top deck was covered by half an acre of lush green lawn, where elites from all walks of life were holding a small golf tournament. The bars and pools on the second and third decks were even livelier, with a fervent atmosphere everywhere, like an entertainment center floating at sea.
"Let us wish Mister Reed Richards and Miss Susan Storm a beautiful future and everlasting happiness."
The owner of the luxury cruise ship, Sean, stood at the center of the banquet in a crisp suit. Raising his glass, he looked around and loudly offered his blessing.
A chorus of agreement followed, along with thunderous applause.
Reed and Susan, the man and woman at the center of the banquet, leaned against each other and greeted everyone's heartfelt blessings with radiant smiles.
This was their engagement banquet. This perfect couple of the Fantastic Four would hold their wedding next week.
Sean watched the chatting, laughing guests, took a glass of champagne from a waiter's tray, and sipped it slowly.
Given his status, it was