As the rusty cargo ship slowly drew alongside the shore, the long week at sea finally came to an end.
Though Germain, Kurapika, and Xiyou had occasionally found things to do aboard the ship, like fishing or taking walks on the islands they passed, nothing felt more reassuring than setting foot on land.
The continent where the Kakin Empire was located was called the Aijin Continent. It lay diagonally across the sea from the Europian Continent, where Yorknew City was located.
This place was quite remarkable. It retained the historical flavor of the ancient kingdom that had preceded the empire, while also having the modern feel of a society with a rapidly developing economy and technology.
After exchanging a few words with the members of the Shu Family, Xiyou left with Germain and Kurapika. He hailed a taxi with practiced ease and took them to the train station.
It seemed that Xiyou had visited the Kakin Empire many times, since Beyond was hiding there. He was familiar with the roads and landmarks.
The reason Beyond was here was simple: the Kakin Empire's royal family was the largest sponsor of his next expedition to the Dark Continent.
The Kakin Empire had made impressive achievements in every field. Its rapid rise had brought it close to the major V5 nations, and in recent years, the idea of a "V6" had been repeatedly mentioned in news reports.
Whoever had started those rumors, the Kakin Empire's current strength was real and not to be underestimated.
Xiyou had booked a private train compartment. It was spacious and bright, with four beds beside the window. The three of them each chose a bed and set down their luggage.
The train soon rumbled into motion, swaying slightly as it went.
"A full day and night on the