In a haze, Fang Hong felt a pair of hands groping his face. Struggling to open his eyelids, he felt the dim light piercing through his lashes, causing his eyes to flicker, and tears welled up uncontrollably.
In the foggy vision, a bright gaze first became clear; it was Miss Ship's Officer's autumn-like eyes, watching him as if they could speak—calm, clear, and reserved.
The gaze of Hilveld looked at the Captain's scabbed face with a hint of worry. She gently stroked it, watching his eyes slightly open a slit, and her own eyes overflowed with a surprising brightness.
She lowered her head, gently brushing against his cracked lips.
Fang Hong murmured hazily, unsure if it was because of blushing or the dizzy burning pain.
"The Sand Thief has been repelled," Hilveld said softly, her voice slightly raspy.
"So, did we win?" Fang Hong asked, still somewhat dazed and confused.
"Not entirely."
