After a long voyage, Kino and Hermes finally reach their goal—a stunningly pristine nation dotted with towering skyscrapers. The scenery here differs from all the other places they have seen; although the countryside looks like open farmland, it feels deserted. Dilapidated and weather‑worn structures litter the fields, with no evidence of life. In stark contrast, the city lies concealed inside a mountain, its sky artificially generated by sophisticated technology. This advanced metropolis prioritises health care, enforces rigorous hygiene standards and strives to make its residents the healthiest people possible.
Yet even amid such beauty, Kino feels a nagging unease. The air carries a faint odd odor and the skies are devoid of birds, giving the landscape an eerie, dizzying quality. As a seasoned traveller, Kino knows that appearances can be misleading and that the town may not be as it first appears.
SHAFT Japan