"Is this our only option? To leave this world entirely?"
Hearing the Star Gazer's words, Ring of Space-Time Veronica remained silent, while Mystic Seeker Orvanni spoke with difficulty.
"We have no other choice, Orvanni. You and I should both know very well what those distortions in the sky signify."
Looking at the two hesitant figures, the Star Gazer stroked his semi-transparent gray spiral beard and spoke calmly.
"The barrier between the Dream World and reality is being twisted by Them. No one knows how long this distortion can last—perhaps half a month, perhaps the next second. They may tear open the Ceiling Wall completely and descend upon this world once more.
"If that moment truly comes, we will have no hope of survival whatsoever.
"I wonder if any of you have heard the story of the great flood from the myths and legends of the Iter Kingdom Federation."
As he spoke, the Star Gazer swept his gaze across the seats farther down the long table, over the other silent eighth- and ninth-rank Spellcasters.
"In the early days of humanity, an unparalleled and terrifying flood once swept across the world, swallowing all things in its disaster.
"When all living beings were driven into despair, a prophet arrived aboard a great ship and brought the ancestors of the earliest humans and all kinds of animals aboard. Only after the flood receded did they return to land and multiply.
"And now, we are humanity's final ark—
"Of course, I will not force anyone to leave with us. If anyone wishes to remain in this world, speak now. I will send them away from the Floating City at once."
Once those words fell, the Spellcasters looked at one another, yet not a single one moved.
"Over in the Saint Messiah Empire... is it truly