Space split open, and a long train burst through, sweeping past somewhere in the cosmos.
The next moment, the train solidified from its half-illusory state, becoming tangible again. Its speed gradually decreased until it continued onward at a steady pace.
In a single instant of warp travel, the train had left the Asdana System and entered the Azure Planet's region of space.
"The train will soon arrive at Herta Space Station. Passengers wishing to disembark, please prepare."
Pom-Pom's voice sounded over the speakers once again.
As the announcement played, the train gradually slowed.
A few minutes later, it stopped in space before an enormous white space station, sent a docking request, and waited for permission from the station.
Just then, a door between two carriages opened, and Conductor Pom-Pom walked in from the adjoining carriage, carrying a tray.
On the tray were a large glass pitcher and several small, empty cups.
This was the freshly squeezed juice Pom-Pom had mentioned.
He walked over to the sofa on his short little legs, handed everyone a cup of juice, and placed the large glass pitcher on a nearby table.
"Thank you, Conductor." Morien reached out and rubbed Pom-Pom's head through his hat.
"No touching the Conductor's head, pom!" Pom-Pom held his hat and stepped back, just about to assert his authority as Conductor, when March 7th scooped him up from behind.
"Conductor, Conductor, I didn't jump during the warp this time~"
She lifted Pom-Pom high, then hugged him to her chest.
"That's what you're supposed to do, pom-" Pom-Pom tried to struggle, but it was no use, so he simply gave up.
Everyone in the carriage laughed.
Soon, the docking request was approved. The Astral Express's autopilot guided the entire train into the station, where it slowly came to a stop at