February 9th, Lion Spring City.
Before entering the port, the leading cruiser sounded its steam whistle and followed by firing several signal flares.
The grandiose gesture left Bai Zhizhan speechless.
However, no one thought it excessive.
Not just Bai Zhizhan, but including him, the entire Eleventh Special Mixed Fleet and both the First and Second Shipborne Air Force Wings were heroes of the Empire.
Just yesterday, through a radio broadcast, the Emperor issued an edict conferring the title "Sea Guardian Duke" upon Bai Zhizhan, elevating him to first-class noble status. The entire Eleventh Special Mixed Fleet and Air Force Wing received the first-class Military Merit Title. Subsequently, orders from the Privy Council followed, and the Imperial Chief Minister rewarded all officers and soldiers accordingly.
This "Sea Guardian Duke" was not an honorary title, but a genuine hereditary title.
Moreover, this had nothing to do with Bai Zhizhan's status as a prince consort.
