Granhom's expression was complicated:
"When he left, he said he wanted to leave it to his best student."
"I think the time has come."
He pulled himself together and patted Mikhail on the shoulder:
"Goodbye, Lagwork. Take care of Tielnan and Lazarina."
"Remember... write to us."
By middle age.
Mikhail had already been in Penacony for a long time.
Young Mika shouted:
"[Clockmaker], where are you going?!"
Mikhail's gaze was calm:
"Don't worry, Mika. I'm just taking a long trip."
"Someone has to head to the front lines of interstellar exploration. Penacony only has one former Nameless left now, so why can't it be me?"
Mika shouted:
"Precisely because you're the only one we have left!"
"Have you forgotten Tielnan?"
"The galaxy isn't like it used to be. It's too dangerous!"
"If we lose you too, what will happen to Penacony?"
Mikhail said heavily:
"If we can't find a way out, then what will happen to Penacony?"
"Tielnan... how could I forget him? Every sleepless night, I ask myself why I hadn't set out with him back then."
"The Nameless can never stop walking... Rest easy, Mika."
"I'm only returning to my old trade. Just wait for me to come back."
"But if, and I mean if..."
"If I don't make it back in one piece, then you'll become the next [Clockmaker]."
In his twilight years.
Gallagher looked at Mikhail's retreating back:
"Old man, where are you going?"
Mikhail, already somewhat senile, staggered as he turned around:
"Hm? Ah? You're still here?"
Gallagher said gravely:
"Answer my question. What are you trying to do?"
Mikhail, his hair gray and white, smiled awkwardly:
"Don't be nervous, Gallagher. I just came up with a brilliant idea. Want to hear it?"
Gallagher said disdainfully:
"Give me a break!"
"Which one of