"What do you desire? To occupy an island with fresh water? Mark my words: in the Land of Light, freshwater is as abundant as the sea. People there even bathe in it."2

"You mean… like the central islanders?" Conor asked with a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes.1

"Yes. Once we reach the Land of Light, each and every one of us no longer need to struggle to survive in this mad ocean. We can live like central islanders."0

Charles's tempting persuasion seemed to diminish their fear of death as animated discussions erupted among the group. Those who had chosen a seafaring career were known for their brazen disregard for life. After all, those who lived by fear would never join the crew of an exploration vessel.0

However, not everyone was naively optimistic. Dressed in a black military uniform, the captain...0