As the Red Tears drifted from the King's Gate toward Coral Hill, many residents on the ground waved their arms and cheered.
They were no strangers to this chalk-white "Flying Church" and knew that the Great Angel had arrived.
Since the Ryugu Kingdom joined the Pan-Titans Alliance, the residents' quality of life had improved noticeably, and their personal safety was better assured.
As a result, the people of Fish-Man Island felt increasingly well-disposed toward Sephiroth. His reputation now surpassed even that of the former Giants King, Harald.
Most people had also begun to believe in the dream Queen Otohime described all those years ago.
Amid the enthusiastic welcome, the Red Tears gradually descended and docked at a large platform reserved specifically for flying ships.
The hatch opened, and magnetically levitated gangway components rapidly assembled into a broad walkway out of the ship.
Eight knights in light ceremonial armor emerged one after another and lined up on either side of the gangway.
Sephiroth stepped out first, followed by Reiju, Robin, and Galette.
"King Sephiroth! Welcome! Thank you for accepting our invitation!"
With a Bubble Swim Ring wrapped around his waist, Neptune floated to the end of the gangway, his voice booming with enthusiasm.
Then he scratched his head sheepishly. His voice softened a little as he bent down.
"...Sorry, Sephi. Inviting you over on such short notice..."
The twelve-meter-tall Neptune lowered his head until it was roughly level with Sephiroth on the platform.
There was indeed a practical, self-serving aspect to this invitation. That left Neptune feeling somewhat embarrassed.
Sephiroth stopped as well, looking at the rather downcast Neptune.
Reiju stood beside Sephiroth, while Robin and Galette followed two steps behind, one on either side.
When Sephiroth stopped, they looked toward Neptune too.
"Neptune. That's only natural. You've already helped me