The Long Sunset

The majestic fog, like a colossal wall reaching into the heavens, rippled faintly across its surface. Cloud streams flowing down from the top of the Wall of Fog were briefly illuminated by a fire from within—then the Eerie Green Flame burst forth, and the towering prow of the Lost Homeland emerged through the fog wall, trailing wisps of residual mist as it sailed toward the "normal sea."

Following close behind the Lost Homeland, the Brilliant Star, the Tide, the Repose, the Restless, and escort vessels large and small also passed through the dense fog.

As the fog wall gradually receded behind the ships, the hazy, chaotic light of the sky faded away, replaced by normal sunlight. The setting sun was slowly nearing the distant horizon, and the double Rune Rings at the edge of Phenomenon 001 had already touched the sea. Golden-red radiance swept across heaven and earth, magnificent beyond compare.

The sailors who had safely returned from the fog all breathed sighs of relief. Strictly speaking, the fleet was still in the border waters, but simply seeing sunlight again, seeing the rolling blue sea, was enough to bring them reassurance—and the warmth unique to the "world of order."

"We've contacted the Church Ark at Lightwind Harbor." Vana came to the bow and found the captain gazing into the distance from the deck. "I briefly reported what happened on Holy Land Island. Her Excellency Helena is looking forward to meeting you again."

"Mm." Duncan answered simply, though he seemed somewhat distracted. After a while, he withdrew his gaze from the distant sea and looked at Vana. "Is there anything else?"

"We're a little worried." Vana hesitated before speaking with a serious expression. "Ever since you came out of the Captain's Cabin, you've seemed even more preoccupied. Did something happen?"

"I