1987 Cosmic Overture

*breathing* Take a deep breath, and relax.

This is my debut. I can't fail, not now. I have to do this for Mr. and Mrs. Kozlov and everyone in the circus. I must make them proud.

Mrs. Kozlov told me that I must guide the air through my body until it finds its balance.

Left, right. Good. Now, wave to the audience and say hello.

Oh, no!

I can do this. I'm almost there.

I can have this handled. First, I need to ...

I ...

There's no absolute direction up there. Up or down depends on the reference you choose.

I think she has the right to know what the "Storm" really is.

We will still need to cross the year 1999.

Alia. Come home.

Kiperina.

Vitals are stable. Biometrics returning to normal.

I'd heard you'd already left. Never thought you'd be back so quickly.

It's obvious you care about them. So, I'm sure you know what to do when they wake up, Ms. Pointer.

She hasn't suffered any serious trauma. All that Ms. Kiperina here needs is rest.

But considering her condition, I recommend she stays here a few days longer for observation.

Thank you. What's the status of the others?

Ms. Hissabeth is fine. She was awake earlier, for a few minutes anyway.

She signed a donor card. Managed to get all her other siblings to sign it too. Not sure what we'd even do with them.

That gentleman and that little salamander guy did the same thing when they woke up.

Anyway, it's no cause for concern. I've seen my share of lunatics just like them. The real problem is determining treatment. There are so many details to pay attention to when dealing with these special patients: the dosage, their drug resistance ... And I'm not a vet, you know. I had to seek out some professional consultation.

No offense, but I'm glad you weren't part of this ... attempt; otherwise, I might have had to face all of this by myself.

I may not have approved of their taking on this project, but I'm still on the team.

*sigh* If only the Foundation could devise regulations sufficient to control our staff's recklessness with their own lives.

Hmm. Maybe they should consider controlling access to Picrasma Candy?

Ugh, forget that. Even I can't help exceeding the recommended dosage sometimes.

I'll be reporting to the headquarters of the Rehab Center next month. I'll let you know their average dosage by then.

Anyway, I need to write up a visitors' schedule. We have to make sure our patients get enough rest.

How's she doing? I just left the other ward and thought I might drop by.

Hello, Ms. Windsong.

Her vitals have stabilized. We're monitoring her recovery, but the initial results are positive.

We can't say precisely when she'll wake up, but it shouldn't take more than a week.

Good to hear. I'll be by to visit them from time to time, following the schedule, of course. Let me know if it's too much trouble.

You're welcome to drop by here anytime. The isolation room is soundproof, but do keep it down when you visit the other wards.

Of course. I'm just worried about them, you know. Besides, Vila and Avgust have drowned me in letters asking about the project.

More importantly, there's a bond between a teacher and her student.

I understand. I'll check in on the others. If you need any help, press that button to call me.

By the way, Ms. Pointer, Godspeed to you and your team!

A bunch of lunatics working together to reach space. Pretty damn cool, I'd say.

Ditto.

Are you being serious? Do you think it's possible we could succeed?

Listen to yourself, "we." Weren't you quitting the team?

Your comment on Hissabeth's project, you said it was "unrealistic." I don't think you really meant that.

But, even if you do, why not stay and give them a hand? Their latest ideas for the teleportation disk sound solid to me. This one failure shouldn't be enough to walk away.

You've worked with Hissabeth long enough. I'm sure you'd already know if she's pursuing a fool's errand.

So, what do you really think?

My thoughts are unimportant. All attempts to talk them out of it have failed, and what's worse, the more forcefully I attempt to dissuade them, the more determined they become.

Alright, so lay it on me: why are they doomed to fail?

I see no reason to expend any energy explaining it.

Whatever. I'll just have to make my own judgments on the matter.

...

Hissabeth is an excellent researcher, sharp and decisive. On those merits alone, she's earned my trust.

My analysis points to a dangerous level of uncertainty in this project. The price of failure, even optimistically, could be much worse than a few days in recovery. There could be more permanent injuries. They could even ...

My nature compels me to do whatever I can to reduce the danger to our staff, and I want to keep my friends alive.

What does it matter if we make it into space and discover whether the "Storm" affects the whole universe?

Say that we determine this phenomenon only affects Earth, then what? We can't leave. We don't have the technology to fly off somewhere else.

And if instead we determine the "Storm" is indeed universal, and that it will inevitably swallow up the stars, well, then wouldn't it all be pointless?

Either way, my calculations are clear: the answer is not worth our lives.

That's how you feel, I get it, so why not tell them?

I've been attempting to find the right time to say it.

Maybe so. Speaking of things to say, I've got some news, and I thought it was better you hear it from me.

Laplace has decided to evacuate the spaceport. All staff on-site are to be relocated before the end of the month.

Evacuate? Where to? There is critical equipment here that can't be moved in that time frame. Besides, this spaceport was a part of our active partnership with the local government.

Ah, we're moving to our real branch in Plesetsk, aren't we? The one on the edge of the Arctic Circle that's proven immune to the "Storm."

This is our "Storm" Emergency Plan!

You've got it.

All Laplace employees are to spend a week in the care center after reporting to Plesetsk. The local staff will be put on paid vacation as is usual.

Hissabeth was also waiting for the right time, and I guess this is it.

Sign this for her, will you? Don't worry. It's not a donor card.

You're asking me to sign this so that my teammates can stay here and die in the "Storm"?

I'm not asking. I'm only delivering it to you.

But they know what they're doing here.

That's why I want to help.

I need some time. My analysis won't be objective right now.

Sure. Just don't keep your teammates waiting. Our time is short.

...

"Not long ago, Voyager 2 successfully reached Uranus, marking the first-ever exploration of this planet in human history. It conducted an examination of Uranus's ring system as planned ..."

"After a temporary orbital adjustment caused by its earlier visit to Titan, Voyager 1 continues its journey towards the edge of the solar system ..."

"Their future ..."

We already know where they're going and what they're gonna do. Why are you wasting time on old news?

As I recall, we've even got a photo from Voyager 1 taken in 1990. It's stored somewhere in the Laplace archives.

That's correct. They even have the development reports from Setun and the work done on meteor burst communication tech.

But none of the archives mention the whereabouts of the Golden Records, do they?

So there is a chance we'll hear some new clue this time around, like "According to the sudden decrease in Voyager 1's mass, it's been speculated that the Golden Records were intercepted by an unknown entity ..."

"Intercepted," you make it sound like it was stolen by aliens, or space pirates!

A space pirate? I doubt they would have any interest in some ordinary records.

Now why don't you get to the point? What's so urgent that you had to switch off the radio?

Oh, I'm making a video. I didn't want the sound drowning out the recording.

Should be quiet enough now.

Are we there yet? Drats! This is no way to travel! Let me just slither please.

We don't have a choice. We're stuck with this most unfortunate mode of transportation.

Welcome. Let me walk you to your office.

Your ID card, please.

Hiss.

Oh, my apologies!

Thank you for showing me the way.

Why don't we speed up a bit? This place feels as cold as a goddamn morgue. I can barely talk without shivering.

Of course. We'll ensure the heat is kept on 24/7 inside your office. Laplace never neglects the little details.

Here we are. Go ahead and knock on the door. Ms. Pointer should be expecting you.

By the way, since you mentioned the cold weather, do you need a thermostat for your lovely pets?

We try our best to meet all of our researchers' needs.

Oh, we're all good. My coat works as a kind of thermo-regulated insulator. It should be fine.

Understood. And please note that the spaceport here is just a part of our local research collaboration. Laplace's official branch in Plesetsk is actually further north, right on the edge of the Arctic Circle.

It has a strict security policy. So, you'll need to file an application before visiting. There's no guarantee it will be approved either.

Welcome to the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

Goodbye, little hissie.

You know what, Two, I think the staff here are more accommodating than most types we meet.

Or, are you just being more of a jerk than usual?

Now stay out of trouble, and don't call me by my number again.

Just so you know, I'm perfectly willing to tie you up by the tails if I start hearing about any "missing lab rats."

...?

I knew I heard someone talking behind the door. Glad my ears don't need tuning.

Please, come in. Are you the new researcher on this project?

You've got it. So, I take it you're one of my new colleagues?

Two devices, two chairs, and two standard-issue desks.

Is it just the two of us?

I expected you to be more rigorous as a fellow Laplace researcher! According to official records, we have a third researcher on the team, an attache from the local government. In theory anyway, no one has ever seen or heard of them. It's just a name on the noticeboard.

However, if you insist on ignoring our esteemed coworker—who I mention out of deep respect for our local partners—then correct, it's just the two of us.

So, what do you think of our setup? It's not so bad. At least, we're in full control of our budget.

Although, I recommend setting those budget expectations low.

Cool, cool. Everything's more or less as I expected—an undervalued project in extraordinary times.

What kind of bizarre mind hatched up the idea of teleporting supplies directly into space?

Do you believe our goals are unrealistic?

Not at all. Only eclectic, let's say. And I've always been a fan of eclectic theories. They are often a stepping stone to true discovery.

I'm certain that the combination of arcanum and science will one day make up the core of our civilization. We're not there yet, but ...

It's only a matter of time. Perhaps this project will be the next leap forward.

So far, the teleport disk we've developed is functional but unstable. It's a one-way ticket capable of travel only within a short distance. But if we can improve its range and stability, I calculate its value to society to be potentially earth-shaking.

Looks like we'll make for quite a team.

But before that, we'll have to make sure our project isn't shut down before it can begin, which means we need to cook up something worthwhile to put in our report.

To that end, I know you're an expert in aerospace materials. Are there any specific specimens you need? I'll do what I can to source them for you.

Oh, but be quick. Our resource applications must be submitted today. The evaluation process and all other little details mean it will take some time to arrive.

Let me see. Hmm, no, I don't have any particular needs for now. How do you feel about fish?

They're fine, as are those pets you've got dangling in your hair.

Cool. Looks like I've come to exactly the right place. No nosy layabouts around to moan about my hobbies.

Speaking of those "pets," they're not really pets. I remember mentioning them in my profile. You didn't read it, hmm?

"Whatever, so long as they can hold their own!" Then you threw the file into the trash. Am I right?

It wasn't quite so dramatic, but yes. I briefly scanned it for your field of expertise and experience. Nothing else mattered to me.

Still, you should get to know your new colleagues. I'm a Melusine. We have snakes for hair. So, they're not pets. They're my siblings.

Technically, you've got yourself a grand total of nine new coworkers. Surprise!

That is certainly new information. It's unfortunate that Laplace doesn't pay out their Sharpodonties by head.

Maybe I can convince them to go in for every two heads?

I wouldn't predict your chances to be high, but a larger food allowance seems appropriate, given your additional mouths to feed.

Mind requesting me a corner office? I need a lot of space for my fish tank. Pets and plants help me cool off.

Whatever you want, let's just finish the report as soon as possible. Then we can apply for additional office space—one room for each of us. Deal?

Deal.

Hissabeth, did you go to that ley lines lecture yesterday?

I couldn't make it. I've been reviewing this data for the last 10 hours.

The model is a mess. Something's off. I can't isolate the issue. It could be the system compiler, or the incantation. Or, maybe we missed some characters when we transcoded it.

Hmm? Oh, the lecture? Yeah, Windsong mentioned it when we met her at the canteen a few days ago. Hold on.

This is Hélène. She woke up just a while ago. Hélène, meet Pointer.

We couldn't all attend the lecture, but I asked someone to take Hélène there to observe. Here are the notes.

I still haven't stopped being amazed by your siblings' telepathic connection.

I wonder if there is an arcane skill that might approximate the same effect. Imagine how much faster we'd be able to share information with it.

It's got its advantages, if you're willing to accept eight different voices oscillating between a party and a brawl every day in your mind.

Hope you don't mind. She's been a bit shy ever since we were little.

That won't be a problem. I'll get it back to you in a few days. I just want to check if the study of ley lines can help with our aeroshell's force analysis.

Is that all? You could've left a message. No need to go out of your way.

Well, and I needed someone to unload a bit on. It's been months since I submitted our resupply application, and there doesn't appear to be any progress.

This slow starvation for all of us is a waste of effort. They should just cut the cord and scrap all these projects they feel "show no value in the short term."

Look at the silver lining. We're sure to get our new offices.

Office space, the one thing we have in abundance here.

*sigh* Anyway, how are things on your side? I'm free for the moment.

I'm progressing just fine. Take a look.

Excellent. Feel free to let me know if you require any help.

You know, for all the time we've worked together, there are still many questions left unanswered between us. I'm curious: why did you choose this project?

There are many other teams pursuing the "combination of arcanum and science." I think one of them is presently working on cleaning incantations and plant-related rituals.

Why choose Plesetsk? Is it that you feel your expertise in material science will be of most benefit here? Or do you have a particular interest in the aerospace industry?

Don't mistake my intentions. I'm happy you chose to join our little team. You've performed exceptionally well so far.

If I had to put a finger on it, I'd say it was curiosity. I really want to know where those Golden Records will end up.

Remember what I told you about my parents? They were studying information technology at Laplace before the first "Storm" struck.

I can't wrap my head around that stuff. My whole life has been a constant stream of information. You wouldn't believe how distracting it is to have eight voices in your brain, bothering you night and day.

Still, all nine of us enjoyed reading. Whenever we found a particularly compelling article, we'd divide it up and each focus on a different part.

We'd always have a huge brainstorm after we finished. It was a lot of fun actually. *sigh* I miss those times.

I still remember the day that meteor fell to Earth.

"Our latest reports are that Voyager 1 has officially traveled the furthest through our solar system of any man-made spacecraft ..."

"Surpassing Pioneer 10 by a distance of approximately 69.419 astronomical units ..."

If the moon is almost 400,000 kilometers away from us, how much further away was this little rock from Earth when it started on its journey?

Unbelievable ...

Where will Voyager 1 go? Who, if anyone, will find its Golden Records? When will the stars stop shining?

Are there researchers out there just like us living on another planet, looking for the same answers?

One little meteor brought us so many questions, and we could never leave a stone unturned.

I see. That's why you joined this project, despite its lack of immediate contributions to society.

Nonsense! Our work is critical to the future of aerospace engineering. We've got plenty of contributions to offer.

Was that an attempt to cheer me up? There's no need. I'm not easily discouraged.

Hmm. You've warmed up a bit.

Yeah, thanks to the 24/7 heating, and because I keep all of us well fed.

Speaking of, I'm headed to town to find a restaurant. Care to join me?

There's some decent food in Plesetsk now, thanks to the new policies. Do you want anything in particular?

Your call.

They're terminating the project?!

I understand, ma'am, but you should know that our top priority after each "Storm" is to restore the Foundation and the LSCC to full function as soon as possible.

With our current shortages of resources and manpower, that means cutting all non-essential projects.

Non-essential? Then what is it that counts as "essential"? Who decided on our priority?!

Calm down, Hissabeth. I understand that Mr. Ludwig did his best to keep as many projects running in Plesetsk as he could. We couldn't have stayed here this long if it weren't for him.

But he's only a branch leader. He doesn't get to make the top-level decisions.

They act as if all of their essential and valuable consumer technology just popped up out of nowhere!

To think that aerospace engineering has less to contribute than their other projects?! S**t! They wouldn't even have vegetable packets in their instant noodles without us!

I'm sorry, but our decision is final.

Please allow me to finish. As you can imagine, I have several other meetings lined up after this.

Sure. Please continue.

Madam Lucy has expressed that she is not in favor of this decision. To that end, she asked me to deliver a "lifeline" for your work here.

As you know, our knowledge about the "Storm" remains extremely limited. Madam Lucy believes we could better manage our circumstances if we could observe it in greater detail, particularly its extent.

She's seeking volunteers from Plesetsk for a project, one that aims to send a monitor into space in order to collect data as the "Storm" arrives.

...!

What about the other projects? Where will the researchers be assigned if their projects have all been terminated?

Most will be reassigned to other teams. I'm afraid there isn't much manpower to spare on our work here.

That's the deal. If you want to stay on this project, then this mission must become your full focus. On the bright side, you'll have full access to all the resources left in Plesetsk.

I believe you two to be the most talented researchers in Plesetsk, and I know you want to achieve something with your work here.

Still, I think I should caution you against accepting this task. Sure, if you pull this off, you'd become a legend throughout our organization, but there's only so much value in fame and admiration.

And what would happen if we were to fail?

I'm afraid your best hope would be instant death, and it may be much worse than that. No one knows for certain what the "Storm" can do, after all.

I'm not sure this is worth your lives.

Alright, that's all. I just need you to confirm that you've been informed. You'll have 24 hours to respond to our request.

Hissabeth, I know you're a big supporter of Madam Lucy, but I'm sure you agree this mission is a statistical death sentence.

If you're struggling for a way to say no, I'll ...

Sorry, what? Never mind. I've got good news.

I just talked to Windsong. She's got a solution to one of our major issues.

Wait. Don't tell me you want to volunteer?

Why shouldn't we? This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

But have you even considered the risk we'd be taking? Like the liaison said.

We'll have all the equipment we need, with a project that's progressing smoothly, working towards an achievable goal for the common good.

It is almost like the universe is within our grasp. All we must do is make our teleport disk work.

It's not that simple. We'd still need an astronaut capable of launching the monitor. Who could we find that would be capable of acclimatizing to a zero-gravity environment under high heat and pressure in such a short time?

That's the good news! Windsong already found us an ideal candidate—an acrobat.

Here, I made a list of issues we'll need to tackle. Of course, that's only assuming you'll accept Madam Lucy's mission too.

I remember we talked about space exploration when I first arrived in Plesetsk. You said you wanted to know what's going on up there, too.

So tell me, what price are you willing to pay for that answer?

Breathe. Let the air find its balance within.

Remember what Mr. Kozlov said: "You must never be afraid of falling." I just have to imagine myself floating in space.

That's right. I will not fall from the wire again.

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing our fabulous wire dancer, the youngest acrobat of the Utrennyaya Circus—

Kiperina!

Here I am, Ringmaster. How can I help you?

Oh, Alia. No need to be so formal outside of work. Anyways, how is it you are feeling today?

I don't want you to be overwhelmed. Take time for a little rest. Old Kozlov can manage things from here.

Please, it was just a thoughtless accident, and I won't let it happen again, I promise!

I've fully recovered. I know you're worried about me, but just ask anyone and you'll know I'm not lying. Even Mrs. Kozlov agreed.

See. I can even put on my firework show again.

Oh! More beautiful than ever! It seems you've mastered the techniques that Ms. Windsong taught you.

There's no doubt our Alia has a budding talent for these ley line things!

Please don't start that again. I already told Ms. Windsong that I had no plans to leave the circus.

I know, I know. Such a loyal star you are. Oh, but there's something I should tell you.

Ahem, um, it's ... we're going to hold a show up near Mirny. They say the night sky is beautiful that far north. Perhaps you might even see the aurora.

All of a sudden? But it's so far from here. Are we in trouble?

No, everything's fine. I-It's just ...

Actually, Alia, Ms. Windsong called me. A friend of hers would like to meet you in Mirny.

They work for an organization called Laplace. I made inquiries at the arcane market. They have a good reputation.

Someone even told me that they were related to the St. Pavlov Foundation—that big organization that recruits all kinds of arcanists.

We are old, Alia, but you, your life has just begun. If you were to join Laplace or the Foundation, you'd live a much better life than any you could have in our little circus.

Do you want me to leave?

No. No, Alia. We just want to let you have another try. There may be some training involved, but we will not force you to stay. You can quit anytime you like.

Natalya and I, we hope you will have a safe and happy life. After that last time when you fell from the wire, we-we just can't bear to—

Then I'll go, Mr. Kozlov, if that's what you want for me.

We don't want you to leave, Alia. But this is an opportunity for you to live in comfort and safety. You're just 15. We don't want you to have to learn what it feels like to scrounge for food in the freezing wild.

Let's just give it a try. What do you say? You will always be welcome to come back to the Utrennyaya when you want. We will never turn you away from your home.

I've always known that.

Ms. Windsong gave you her card, remember?

I forgot where I put it. I figured they wouldn't ever find a need for a living light bulb.

Alia ...

So, then have you already planned the route, Mr. Kozlov? Are we traveling overland? When do we set off? And what are we taking with us?

What's the weather like in Mirny? Should I pack some warmer clothes?

Oh, it's been a while since the last time we restocked the medical kit. I'll check it later. We need to prepare for the animals' transportation.

Of course, of course, it's all in hand already. Our Alia, always such a self-starter.

Laplace sets a very high standard for its staff! Our Alia could only have been chosen if she were very special. Just see how she pays attention to each little detail.

Windsong. Ley Lines Scholar.

I still don't get it. What even is "The Study of Ley Lines"? Is it like Arcanist Engineering? Or Math? I've never seen or heard of anything like it.

If I start to study these ley lines, does that mean I'll have to leave Utrennyaya forever?

That I won't be with Mr. and Mrs. Kozlov and the circus anymore?

Our circus's big top was decorated by Mrs. Kozlov. She said that she wanted it to reflect the beauty of the stars and the weightlessness of outer space.

Such a beautiful view. Will I ever be able to see it again if I leave here?

I suppose I must meet these Laplace people, if that is what my family wants me to do. This way, we'll all be able to live a better life, right?

Over there! Keep up! What the hell is that?!

...

Damn, is that a bear? But it's so fast!

How did it get in here? I've never heard of any kind of critter around here that can pass through walls like that!

...

I caught it! Over here! Help, quickly!

"Voyager 2 has successfully repaired its imaging platform and will proceed according to its originally scheduled exploration of Uranus ..."

"Voyager 1 continues its journey to the edge of the solar system and beyond. According to our projections, it is expected to pass by Proxima Centauri in around 70,000 years ..."

Mmm.

The same strange dream again. It's gotten more and more detailed since we arrived in Mirny.

I need something to distract myself. Ms. Windsong and Mr. Kozlov made an appointment to meet next week. Until then, I should continue to prepare for our show.

Utrennyaya is making its debut in Mirny tonight. It's a new beginning.

*deep breath* I just need to cheer up and do my best.

I guess it's also my debut in Mirny. And first impressions are everything.

Maybe Mr. and Mrs. Kozlov will change their minds if I can win over the audience.

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing our fabulous wire dancer, the youngest acrobat of the Utrennyaya Circus—

Kiperina!

...!

Will they let me stay if I keep giving perfect performances like this?

...!

Natalya and I were a little worried for you back there, but it seems our worrying was for nothing. The show was even better than we hoped.

You did such a good job, Alia. The audience was thrilled! I knew we came to the right place.

I'll ask Natalya to prepare us a proper banquet tonight, something to reward our darling Alia and celebrate your new job at Laplace.

We still don't know about that yet, but I'll try my best.

I know you can do anything once you make up your mind to do it. And now, I must go discuss tonight's food with Natalya.

...

Perhaps she's taking a break? Or waiting for someone.

"We believe Voyager 1 will continue to explore the galaxy on and on ..."

"Traveling into the depths of the universe, carrying with it humanity's spirit of exploration, it is likely to persist longer than life on Earth ..."

What will the weather be like tomorrow? Maybe we can take a longer walk if it's sunny.

You haven't seen the diamond mine here in Mirny, have you?

Is anything coming back to you? I asked some people around about you, but no one had any clue.

Don't worry. Most of us in the circus were adopted by Mr. Kozlov, so he won't mind if you stay with us. He always gives a hand to those in need.

And I'm going to meet an extraordinary lady tomorrow. She knows a lot. Maybe she will know who you are.

...

Hey, look at this.

It's my arcane skill. It's not very useful, I know, but don't you think it's pretty?

People say it looks like the stars.

... Mhm.

I could do it again if you like.

Let's try something. Can you spell your name?

Long journey ... traveler?

*sigh* Sounds like you just picked these words up from the radio.

...

Did you go on a long journey to reach Mirny?

Hmm. How was it that Mr. Kozlov decided on our stage names? Give me a second.

"Long journey," we could call that a "voyage." That would make you, who traveled a long journey, a ...

Voyager.

Kiperina.

Voyager.

Now that you have a stage name, you are now an official member of the Utrennyaya Circus.

Hmm?

Alia, where's that girl? The one who was staring at the animals before? I brought a bunny around for her.

I suppose I'll be looking after her now, because you're meeting those Laplace people tomorrow, right?

You need a rest, Alia. Now do as Mama Kozlov says: go have a nice meal at the restaurant in town and then straight to bed early.

Mrs. Kozlov, I don't need to ...

Hush, just go. I didn't cook anything for you tonight. We've already paid the restaurant.

...

I'm not just a little kid that you need to take care of.

Fine. I'll go, and after that, I will train for another hour.

Yes, that's for the best.

That's all. Thanks.

Sorry, it sometimes takes us a while to decide on an order. So, you were saying you found a strange girl here in Mirny, and then?

Hold on! That special device you're holding. Did you get it from Windsong?

Yes. Before I came to Mirny, I fell from the wire during a show, and Ms. Windsong happened to be there.

I don't remember the details, but she said my arcane skill was able to protect me.

She helped me draw out the aura from around my body and analyzed how it worked. Though I didn't understand that part at all.

But the name of her theory is still clear in my mind—The Study of Ley Lines. She gave me this device before she left. She said it would make it easier to control my arcane skill.

Mr. Kozlov wants me to give it a try again, so I've decided to go see her tomorrow.

Cool. She's a great researcher. The Study of Ley Lines is still highly theoretical, but as we say at Laplace, theory often lays the foundation for practice.

If you do decide to join us, I'd be happy to write a reference letter for you.

You're a Laplace researcher?

You didn't already guess? Hmm. My colleagues often say I dress, you know, like a mad scientist.

I guess it's that I never thought I would meet a scientist eating at a little restaurant like this.

Oh, please, I'm sure you're aware that scientists are living things too. We need to eat just like everyone else.

Looks like you meant it when you said you're good with animals.

I spend a lot of time with them in the circus. I even helped raise one of our bear cubs.

You know you haven't answered my question yet. Why do you choose to be an acrobat?

Don't you find it scary to walk on a wire all the way up in the air? I suppose it is a really cool job, though.

Well, it is cool, I have to admit. But what I really like about being up on the wire is that, when you look down, you get to see a view that no one else gets to in their daily life.

When I stand on the wire, the audience below look just like stars, and it feels like I'm floating in space with them.

Isn't that great? In that moment, I stop worrying about my performance and forget all expectations. I can just be in the moment, shining like a star.

Oh, intriguing. You know, in a way, I came all the way out here because I had the same thought.

I wanna work with the smartest minds in the world, whether humans or arcanists. They're also like the stars in a lot of ways, each one bound to go down in history.

And I'm trying to find out what really exists beyond the limits of the sky.

Do all your siblings share the same feeling? They're such neat little snakes. Oh, it looks like they have fallen asleep.

We've always been on the same page when it comes to these things.

Your arcane skill is exactly as I expected.

It captures photons from the aurora and stores them as latent energy; then, when it's deployed, it appears to form a kind of prismatic plasma barrier.

Wh-What?

I'll explain next time. It's complicated. It could take hours to get it into your head.

Still, it is most obvious to me that you are exactly the person we want for this opportunity. What do you say? Will you give it a try?

...?

An opportunity to reach the stars.

...!

You mean you're the colleague Ms. Windsong mentioned? The one who invited me to Mirny?

I should've known. Was this a test? I thought you were a friend I could talk to.

A "friend"? Superbe, that's the best compliment I've received in months.

Relax, this wasn't a test at all. We just happen to share the same taste in food.

But I do hope you'll consider our offer seriously, in the spirit of the good time we had together.

Are you serious though? You really mean you want me to become an astronaut?

Exactly.

Don't rush to a decision. We can wait till tomorrow.

In fact, the materials I've been expecting should arrive tomorrow as well. Maybe the delivery guy will bring you a small gift along the way.

You don't have to. Sorry, I didn't prepare any gifts.

Don't be silly. It's just a friendly gesture. I believe you come from the same region, so I'll bet you two will get along quite famously. And he has an interesting nickname too. It was, umm, oh, right—

No. 136, from near the Kolyma Mountains.

Tells the tale of the Polar Star icebreaker. The crew suffered some kind of mass hysteria. The same thing happened later in the Kola Peninsula.

Our destination is close to the Arctic Circle. With any luck, we should get a great view of the aurora.

Neva River, Lake Ladoga, Svir River, then Lake Onega ... It takes less time to travel by water. Maybe I can even buy a small gift along the way.

What sort of specialties does Mirny have other than diamonds? Oh, maybe I can stop by Petrozavodsk on my way back.

Looks like I'll have to walk the rest of the way after landing. Ah, Plesetsk, a place of boundless snow and not much else.

Leningrad is just on the other side of this snowfield.

I'll let that meteor guide my way.

The Foundation never gives me a break, which I guess makes me equal parts lucky and unlucky.

Mr. Name Day?

Yep. Hold on!

I heard you were leaving for the north on a new mission. Is that true?

Just for an errand. The Far East Branch is short on staff right now, so I'm going all on my own.

Ms. Windsong should be on a field trip there. Is there anything you'd like me to give her?

Where is it? Is it north of Rayashki? Could I come visit there with Vila?

Well, so long as you finish all your classes and get good grades, I'm certain you'll be able to go anywhere with Ms. Vila, as long as it is safe.

But things could change. I can't promise anything. Except maybe a little souvenir when I get back. Now, Avgust, do you have anything you want me to give Ms. Windsong?

Yes, and Vila does too. I've written lots and lots of things. Comrade Windsong can read them when no one is there to tell her a bedtime story.

And this, from my tallest and most spirited sunflower guards!

You must not water them too much, and they should be placed somewhere under the sun.

I'd like this to be delivered to Ms. Windsong.

She said in the last letter that she had started to teach again, and it was more difficult than she remembered.

I wrote a little bit about my own experience teaching. Hope it helps.

And please talk to her if you have any ideas. You're so good with kids. Nina, Pyotr, and Pasono ask about you all the time, always wondering when you'll visit again.

I didn't ask. I know how busy you are, Mr. Raccoon, and so is Vila. Every day, she's either painting something or talking to the white clothes.

With any luck, I'll be free for a while after this mission. I'll come back and do some magic for you kids. What do you say?

Deal?

A good comrade must always keep his word!

Sounds like you've been doing well recently. The Foundation's textbook is an easy read, but I really hadn't expected just how effortlessly you'd be able to make your lesson plans.

Lesson plans are nothing compared to field missions. Just keep this in mind during your errand: your safety is our first priority here.

Of course, but the good news is I'm quite familiar with this era.

Um, anyway, I'll make sure Ms. Windsong receives Avgust's seeds and your letter.

Thanks a lot. I don't want to make our goodbyes here too long-winded. Just take care, especially since you're going to be all on your own.

Well, I won't exactly be "all on my own."

Hey, so, any idea how far off this place is? I think we must be pretty close. I can almost see that unmistakable Laplace metal roof!

I've actually got some business lined up in Mirny. Those diamonds of theirs are certain to fetch a tidy profit back in the East Branch.

I should've never let you out. Can we make a deal? You stay quiet, and I'll get you safely to our destination. Then, you can say whatever you've got to say to whoever made the mistake of inviting you here.

*sigh* You know you really, really, really like to talk? I'm beginning to understand why no one else would take this job!

Whoever heard of a merchant who doesn't like to talk? Ha. Admit it, you'd be bored to tears if I were not here.

...?!

Quiet.

Bandits—in the Arctic Circle? That's new.

Where is he? I saw someone coming this way.

We can't let him get any further. There's some kind of military base up ahead. And it's heavily guarded.

Think how far we've gone. We can't go home empty-handed. That arcane item they've got is probably worth a few Sharpodonties, don't you think?

&%#*! (curses from the east) "Item." Hey! I'm a living, breathing creature!

You don't need to yell at me. Say it to them if you like!

What? Are you sure? Never mind. What should I yell?

Anything. I just need you to draw their attention.

I'm not letting them anywhere near Plesetsk.

This way! I hear something. Keep up!

Errrr. Ro-Ro-Robbery! Hands up, and give me all your cash!

*Čабля.

What were you waiting for with that knife?

Oh, well, it's more of a collectible than a weapon.

But I guess you understand now why they sent me to escort you instead of hiding you in the back of some truck, huh?

I didn't see a single truck heading for Plesetsk on our whole journey here. By the way, was that knife thingy part of your arcane skill? Why don't you just make a gun instead?

Times have changed, friend. Blades are out of date. You should give yourself an upgrade and start blasting!

Nah. I'd probably be serving with Zeno if I was any good with guns.

Have you ever heard of that legendary pilot from Zeno, the Barents Witch?

If you were really important, then you would get a guard like that. All that being a noisy little salamander gets you is a guy that can turn trash into knives.

Ah! That's nearly the most useless arcane skill I've ever heard of.

I say "nearly" because it's still better than mine. So, I'm not in a position to criticize.

What does your arcane skill do?

That's it.

It's certainly ... something.

Ms. Windsong.

Hello, gentlemen.

Welcome to Plesetsk.

You arrived earlier than expected. Pointer and Hissabeth will be happy to know you got here safely.

Oh, FYI, Pointer was the researcher who introduced me to Laplace. You might have met her before in Rayashki. She's occupied with a few important visitors right now. We'll talk to her later.

As for Hissabeth, you can meet her in person and save me the trouble of an introduction.

Our appointment was set for an hour from now. You're a bit early, sir.

There wasn't much work to do today. And Alia always has everything prepared ahead of anything important. I-It's nothing to worry about.

Please take a seat. Windsong and Hissabeth will join us later.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask me.

Thank you, ma'am. Please call me Kiperina. I have something to ask you.

That's fine with me, Ms. Kiperina. My name is Pointer. So, what would you like to know?

If I take the offer and complete all the required training, what will I get in return? Do you pay in ruble or something equivalent?

And I'd also like to know if my family will receive my pay in case anything happens to me.

Hello? Is anyone there?

The materials you sent from the Far East Branch have arrived safely.

Everything you asked for on your list is there. But you should check it over as soon as possible.

Hey. Wake up. You're at work.

Windsong? Back from the mine already? Are you going to throw a welcome party for our new colleagues?

The mine can wait, but I can't. Those materials are top priority.

Thanks. You might have heard of me. My name's Hissabeth.

You've read our proposal, haven't you? It'd save me a lot of trouble if you had. I'll catch you up with Pointer as soon as she's available.

Name Day, Foundation Investigator for the Far East Branch.

Mind if I ask you a question?

Go on. But this is an office, not an interrogation room.

Why did you ask me to smuggle in this runium?

What?

Don't get me wrong. I didn't report it. It's just ... it's odd. You didn't ask for much, just a few pieces.

It is a rare resource, I grant you. But I think you could've gotten this amount with no trouble by submitting an application. All you'd need to do is wait for a few weeks.

Was it really worth the risk?

Yeah, because we don't have a few weeks to spare.

Saving every bit of time we can is vital. It is as precious as this bag of sunflower seeds from a distant land. You don't find them often in these parts.

Here.

I've already taken my share. Why not plant some of these in the office?

It won't take too much effort. If you're lucky, you'll get to see them turn their heads towards the light bulbs.

Actually, Mr. Name Day, you're the perfect man for this job. You knew what you were smuggling, you had the perfect excuse to come here, and you were kind enough to help. It was quite the effort to track you down, you know.

So, how did the trip go? Any trouble?

You bet there was. Though I'm still not sure what those bandits were after, the runium or our noisy "arcane item."

There's a shortage of supplies everywhere nowadays. People take what they can, whether they need it or not.

Even if they managed to take the cargo, it'd probably just end up in another branch of the Foundation or Laplace.

Anyway, you saved us a lot of time and resources.

Just bear in mind, this runium is not something that you can replace even with Sharpodonties.

Thanks. We'll use it sparingly. Please send my gratitude to Ms. Vila.

And one more thing.

What would you say if I asked you to stay?

Don't worry. I won't play the Windsong card. It's only a personal request.

We could save a lot of time with our procedural work if we had a Foundation Investigator on the team.

And it could be a great opportunity to earn a reputation. Imagine the prestige if the project ends up a success.

...

Are you making any progress?

As much as we can, but we don't have a single Sharpodonty to our name, and this runium is the sum total of all the supplies we've received recently.

They told us we could use all the resources left in Plesetsk, but that amounts to jack all. Thankfully, we still have half a rocket, fuel, and a launch button. Still, to make up for the supply shortage, we need additional manpower.

Oh, but there's some good news: we don't have to worry about finding our astronaut. We already have a perfect candidate.

We're in dire need of an astronaut.

There isn't enough time for anyone to finish the full training course. No one would be able to acclimate to a zero-gravity environment in such a short time, not to mention the high pressure and heat.

But you may be the exception, Ms. Kiperina. Your arcane skill may allow us to work a miracle.

So, if you take the offer, we'll provide you with a salary and try to get you a permanent position here at Laplace.

Hissabeth is already working on it. She has a contact in the Foundation who can help with the procedures.

Alright then. I have no more questions.

But, just to be clear, I don't think my arcane skill is as useful as you believe. It only makes a little firework show.

Heh, she's being modest. You know how children are when they receive a compliment, but I tell you she is more than willing to take your offer. Please give her an opportunity. You'll see how reliable she is!

By the way, another little arcanist girl joined our circus recently. Do you think she could stay with you too?

That's not really how this works. Not everyone's arcane skill works in the same manner.

But she would keep Alia company. Please, madam, Alia is still just a child who plays with dolls.

Mr. Kozlov, stop! I haven't played with dolls in ages!

I ... I'm already grown up!

...

We'll take a look at what she can do. Would you be able to bring her here now?

Of ... of course. I'll be right back.

Alright, we're finally alone. Now, how about you tell me what you're actually thinking?

Our biggest issue remains unsolved, but I'm most certain we can resolve it.

The entire project is a mixed bag right now, but I'd say more good than bad.

If our little sleepyhead in that pod there can provide what we need, our situation should improve dramatically.

I was dreaming of cutting a tree on the moon.

*yawn* You'd better have a good reason to wake me up. I'm not your lackey. We made a deal, that's all. And I'm freaking tired after that trip!

Yeah, and about that deal? I need something from you, now.

This little pod of yours. It's electrically insulated, heat-resistant, and highly durable against arcane energy. In short: the perfect aerospace material.

All I need is to sand off a bit of material from it. Don't worry. Just think of it as dental work.

Wait, wait. You haven't paid for that yet.

A deal is a deal.

Here's your ID card. Just to be clear, this is only for an internship. You'll need to actually work to earn yourself a permanent one.

And don't do anything stupid. I vouched for you, and now both our necks are on the line.

Oh, it does look good on me. I knew I belong with Laplace. *sigh* The engineers at the Foundation's East Branch are way too competitive for my liking.

So, what else you need? I've brought some records about gunpowder-fueled flight, and a few books on Eastern alchemy. Though, I'm not sure you'd be able to read any of them.

What does this mean?

Oh, that? You know, I got this pod from the Panjiayuan Antique Market. It's not a genuine antique, but the craftsmanship is quite excellent.

These characters here mean "microwave safe." Funny enough, microwave ovens were not that popular when I got it.

Speaking of Panjiayuan, you can't find a flea market as big or as fun anywhere else. If you're ever looking for antiques and collectibles, it should be your first stop.

Humph, if you want to go take a look, I might just be nice for once and take you ...

No, thanks. Just making sure it doesn't mean "danger, explosive." I already learned that lesson from another escapade with an arcane invention.

Alright. I've collected enough. You were so busy talking you didn't feel a thing, did you?

Now, back to our visitor in the checkered pattern uniform, have you made a decision?

What are you going to do with the little astronaut when the project's over?

I'll submit her application to Laplace once she agrees to join us. It'd be great if you could help with her employment procedures.

I mean, when are you going to tell her the real consequences of the "Storm"?

Same as always, as soon as she gets a permanent position with Laplace.

...

Alright, then I'll stay.

You mean you really want to stay with the circus?

I ... I meant that I'm willing to do whatever you need, but I don't think I want to do this permanently.

Since you say that you need my arcane skill for this project, I'm happy to help, though I don't really know if I can.

I think you know why Mr. Kozlov brought you all this way.

When was the last time you had a proper meal?

Well, we usually have stews, and sometimes Mr. Kozlov will find us some canned food if we're lucky.

And you still want to spend the rest of your life in that circus?

...

This is her, the girl I talked about. She doesn't speak much, but I feel that she has a good character.

...

Don't be shy. You can sit next to Alia.

What were you talking about? I hope our Alia didn't cause any trouble, madam.

Mr. Kozlov ...

Will I ever have the chance to return to Utrennyaya?

Will I ever have the chance to return to Utrennyaya?

We can talk about that in the future.

Of course, we will keep in touch. You and Voyager can pay us a visit whenever you like.

The girl's called Voyager, madam. She's clever, quiet, doesn't eat much. You-You will take her in too, won't you?

I always hoped you would settle down and live a comfortable life. Promise me, you'll do your best, Alia.

Yes, Mr. Kozlov.

Oh, you've finally reached an agreement. Cool, looks like I won't have to do any more explaining.

If you're saying goodbye soon, maybe you ought to consider bringing her a parting gift. She looks like she could use one.

Yeah, something to remind her of home.

Or maybe you can offer a few words of encouragement? What do you say?

Right, right, a gift. I-I'll need some time to prepare it.

Let's make a deal, shall we? You'll get your gift next time you pay a visit to the Utrennyaya.

That way, you'll keep us in mind and come home again one day. I was worried you might not want to travel such a long way for us.

I will, Mr. Kozlov. I'll find my way back to Utrennyaya even if you've moved to the other end of the world.

Hahaha, that's my girl.

Remember what I said? Do the best that you can and have no regrets.

Natalya and I don't have to worry about you, do we?

No.

I'll give my best performance here, like I always did with Utrennyaya.

How do you feel? Intense nausea is common for the first few months of zero-g training.

*pant* I think I'm fine.

You're very kind to ask, ma'am.

I'm ready for more.

You're at this again? Hissabeth already checked your vitals and arcane skill test reports. Her conclusion was clear: You need to rest and recover before we begin again.

If you push yourself too hard and become too sick to perform the mission, that won't help us either.

But I can do more. All I need is a bit more training. I need to perform flawlessly.

We don't need "flawless," not at the cost of your health. We need "satisfies all requirements." Nothing more.

You're already doing better than we anticipated.

Thank you. But I still haven't memorized the flight procedures, and I'm still struggling with my arcane skill.

Maybe I can ask Ms. Windsong to give me another ley lines lesson. That's not "pushing myself," is it?

...

That's acceptable, but you will ensure you get a minimum of eight hours of sleep every day.

And promise me you'll eat well and never skip meals.

Yes, ma'am. Ms. Hissabeth said there would be a team-building dinner tonight. I'll attend it and train for another half an hour after we come back.

No. That's not what I meant.

*sigh* Anyway, go change. We'll go together.

We sat here when we first met, non?

I think so. This table seems a bit too small now.

Well, there's strength in numbers.

Yet everything now depends on our brave astronaut. How's your arcane skill training?

Not bad, I guess. Ms. Windsong is a wise teacher.

Haha, I'm glad I've learned something from my experience with Vila. I hope you'll get to know her one day.

You'll have plenty of time to make friends once you return from your mission.

Looking forward to it. But first I have to go back to the circus. I think Mr. Kozlov will have my gift prepared by then. I'm sure he will.

Though, he didn't come to see me and Voyager this week.

He has a whole circus to run, and you're busy with training. It's hard to find a good time when you're both free.

Perhaps he didn't want to make you homesick, but I'm sure he misses you a lot.

Mirny isn't far from here. You should go back and visit sometime. No one will blame you if you take a break for a few hours.

I am able to drive you to town, if you need.

Just submit your schedule two days in advance. I will set some time aside for a short trip.

Thank you. But I think it'll have to wait until the project's over.

Mr. Kozlov said I would always be able to visit him in the future. Besides, he needs time to prepare the gift.

Err. Don't do that. The echo from that sound makes me dizzy.

...?

Voyager?

Don't get distracted. They've almost finished the food.

Feel like a drink? Here, we've got some hot milk or warm apple cider. Pick one.

Milk will be fine. Thank you.

Let's have a toast, friends. To our new team, though no one knows for sure whether our project will succeed or is doomed to fail catastrophically.

Together, we're working towards the future, cheers!

Cheers!

Having said that, the odds are in our favor. Even though Laplace is no longer in its prime, it still has the best technology and the finest scientists.

The finest scientists? You mean us? I couldn't agree more. I've always believed that perseverance is the most basic fundamental quality that any researcher should possess.

Perseverance ... There's only one thing that I think we should persevere with: our efforts to return to the future.

Didn't know you Laplace researchers missed the good old days so much.

Laugh if you want, but you can't deny that our era was better than this one.

What was the future like?

I've read through the manual for temporary employees. The data we're going to collect may help people get back the things that they lost, right? From the futures that you've been to.

What's Leningrad like in 1999? Were there any circus shows in your era?

Does that mean everything was better than it is now? I have trouble imagining it. Were there sweets for everyone and stores that never ran out of food?

...

Things were much better then, well, except for the study of ley lines. It was still struggling as a scientific pursuit, especially when it came to attracting new students. Though, even now its only student seems to lack much interest in it.

Th-That's not true! Sorry, I'm just having difficulty focusing on it with all the other demands on my time.

It's okay. Ms. Windsong was only making a joke at the expense of her very overworked student.

It's true things were nicer in the future. I do miss the sweets, and that the shops were never empty.

Amazing! I'm sure we'll make it back one day!

Data secured. Pointer, do you want me to add your part to the video now? Or maybe later?

Preferably never. This whole "last record" thing is your passion. Besides, I know nothing about material sciences.

But you spent so much time transcoding the incantation. You simply must show up in my video. Please, I insist.

We're a team. We shouldn't miss anyone's perspective, non?

Yes.

Superbe, then let's take a look at our work so far and learn from our mistakes, well, my mistakes.

Hissabeth, if we are going to have any chance of learning from our mistakes, we can't run away from our problems.

Same as the last time. Though we've made some improvements, we still need an intelligent creature to run the test.

And I guess it'll be me again.

Are you sure? Considering the danger and your value to the project, I think you ought to let me ...

How can I ask anyone to try my invention if I wouldn't use it myself?

Now, what are you waiting for? Get to the safe zone. Oh, and remember to secure the blast door.

Ms. Kiperina asked about the test yesterday as she was feeding the fish.

She said she's been able to control her power more now. You'd be much safer with her help.

We're a team, right? We sink or swim together.

My training just finished. I hope I'm not late, Ms. Hissabeth.

Well, we did have a pretty bad accident, but thanks to Kiperina's arcane skill, no one was too badly hurt. Windsong is one cool teacher, and that girl's a phenomenal student.

The margin of error remained high, a significant problem for sure. But we'd learned our lesson after spending all that time recovering in the ward.

That is, that we should prepare for the worst, so that those who survive will know what to do with, umm, our legacy.

Our last record matters, my friend.

Two, I don't think that's what Pointer meant when she told us to "learn from our mistakes."

...

Again, I emphasize that safety must come first in the lab. It is my first and most important protocol.

Windsong and I left for all of ten minutes, and by the time we got back, each and every one of you ended up on death's door!

And now I find out you've even petitioned for a postponed evacuation. This is getting ridiculous!

You know how tight the schedule is now that the "Storm" Emergency Plan has been activated, don't you?

The silver lining is that now we know that we have exactly three months. We can still optimize the procedure and improve the disk and ...

Enough, Sylvie!

Oh, c'mon, friends. Can we just calm down and discuss our schedule over dinner?

I believe Ms. Pointer was only trying to suggest a better plan.

I am. I suggest we stop all work on this project immediately.

What? Why? The situation really isn't that dire.

Ms. Hissabeth is right. We shouldn't be discouraged over one accident, Ms. Pointer. The damage wasn't too severe.

Only three months left, yet our latest "achievement" was a total catastrophe.

I know what you're all thinking. That the odds are still good, and it's more or less safe to continue. But all that is a weighted gamble.

Nothing matters more than your lives.

Pointer, what do you think the odds are really?

Without diving into the calculations, it's around a 70% chance in theory. But my logic is screaming something else in my ear.

You ... you don't have to take that risk, Pointer.

I know what I'm doing. Nothing's guaranteed in the world of science.

I ...

The risk is too high. I can't allow it.

But it's like we always say: there is nothing guaranteed in the world of science. You never know before you take that fateful step.

My analysis points to a dangerous level of uncertainty in this project. The price of failure, even optimistically, could be much worse than a few days in recovery. There could be more permanent injuries. You could even ...

You've seen how things, places, people just disappear in the "Storm."

You need to stop this insanity before that happens to us. Don't you understand?

I really don't. Why should we stop?

No, you're right. We shouldn't pretend as if it's normal to risk our lives for this. At the end of the day, if we die, our research dies with us.

But if something were to happen to the team, you would be the one to survive. That's why I want you to keep our records, to take down everything in case the worst happens.

Here.

I won't take it, and I won't submit this petition for you. I can't stand by and let you kill yourselves.

I'm done. I quit.

Pointer, there you are! How's everything going?

I heard you're busy with the evacuation. Seems many stores in Mirny have already closed up.

As soon as I finish the handover here, I'm heading back into town to help with packing, coordinating, and explaining the situation to the locals. Same old, same old.

"Same old, same old." You know, Hissabeth said that exact thing when I asked about the team's progress yesterday. They seem to be doing alright.

Good.

Oh, by the way, I've got some seeds left. Do you wanna take them off my hands?

Do I look like a gardener to you?

Well, it's just that I heard from a few people here in Mirny that a Laplace researcher was giving out sunflower seeds.

And it wasn't me, so I've been wondering just who it could have been.

Don't you want some? Seriously, everyone loves them.

...

Thanks.

So, who ended up signing the application?

Hissabeth will, when she goes to collect the monitor and report our research to Ludwig. She says it's more likely to get approval that way.

They don't know when to stop, do they?

They don't know the meaning.

Stop.

If the fish get startled, then they won't eat anything.

I see, Ms. Hissabeth.

I finished a full inventory check. There's more runium left than we thought. Now, where should I put these useless old files? I was thinking we could use them for draft paper.

Maybe you can turn them into a knife or something.

A knife would be more useful at this point. You know, to cut fruit or whatever.

Actually, that card there on the table would work better for that.

Why is that?

It's all about the material. Metal makes a better edge than paper. Never quite understood why you made them like that.

Oh. I was testing out the new alloy. I used it to make Windsong's and Pointer's cards. It gets harder and sharper when heated. Give it a rub with your hands, and you can use it as a letter opener.

The ritual still isn't stable enough. We need a specific location or area to set as a destination in advance.

But first, we need a way to pinpoint a recognizable area.

The formula should be ...

Ms. Windsong sent me a message. She said: "Don't forget to collect the monitor."

Oh, she sent it to you too? Tell her I said thanks.

No, that number doesn't look right.

I tried my best, but those arcane minerals you were asking for are scarce as all hell! I haven't been able to find a single supplier.

Then, we'll carry on without them.

That's it.

Nope. Wrong again.

Pointer was the master of numbers. With that brain of her, she'd have had this over and done by now.

Careful, don't hurt yourself. They're more powerful than they seem.

Ms. Hissabeth.

I have a question for you. Sorry if it's not a good time, but it's important to me.

And it's something I hope you'll answer honestly.

Sorry, ladies. Please ignore me. I'm not here, and I didn't hear a thing.

Ms. Kiperina is a smart young lady. It's hardly surprising that she'd be quick to figure things out, don't you agree?

...

So, what's your question?

Ms. Pointer said something before she left about places and people disappearing into the "Storm."

It's hard to believe that she would ever give up on our mission, unless she knew the price of failing was truly horrible.

Then the "Storm" can't just be some normal kind of natural disaster.

This "Storm" will destroy everything, won't it?

All the people we know? All the bears, birds, these fish, everything?

The lost future that you talk about, was it the first to disappear? Or are there more that have been lost? Will the same thing happen to our time?

Things are much worse than you let on.

What else has changed in the future?

Many, many things changed. Some things won't last nearly as long as people think they will.

For you, the world might seem to have turned upside down, but life will go on.

So, now that you know what's at stake, are you ready to officially join Laplace?

I'm afraid there is still a great deal I cannot tell you until then. Many of the answers you're seeking are classified, for employees only.

Pardon me, Ms. Hissabeth.

But given the danger of the mission we are expecting Kiperina to perform, I think she has the right to know what the "Storm" really is.

I understand that you don't want to go against Laplace's rules.

But I'll bet there aren't any rules against me figuring it out and you simply nodding, am I right?

I won't get to see Mr. Kozlov or get that gift in the future.

So, if I join Laplace, I won't see anyone from Utrennyaya ever again.

...

The choice is yours. I won't force you to do anything.

Remember the day we first met in the restaurant? I said I would write you a recommendation. I was serious. I still am.

In fact, it's already done. Windsong has signed on to it too, and our Foundation friend behind you is prepared to offer another guarantee just in case.

We will make a recommendation for your friend Voyager as well, but that's all we can do. I'm afraid we can't protect everyone, nor can we make this decision for you.

...

Do you want to keep going?

If you don't, you'll be allowed to return and accept what's to come, but if you join us, there is a chance to change things.

I ...

I will complete my mission.

And if I successfully come back with the data, I'll consider joining Laplace.

But I can't make a decision now. I need more time to think.

I will stay until my job is done. You don't have to worry about that.

That is what Mr. and Mrs. Koslov and my friends in the circus would all want. It is the right thing to do.

...

If you'll excuse me, I should return to my training. I'll see you later.

Us too. Need to double-check the warehouse inventory. Might find something useful.

Wait, haven't we done that already? Those—

Alright! We'll let you know if we find anything.

Join them if you want. I have some unfinished business.

...

...

...

Alia!

Was that you? Did you just say my name?

You learned how to—

Stars ... good.

Alia, happy.

These calculations need to be finished today.

The "Teleport" ritual requires the caster to recite the location. It could be understood as calibrating in a way.

Let's continue with that thought.

The destination must be preset, and the ritual cast through incantation ... But the further the distance, the harder it is to stay on target.

If only there were an arcane reaction strong enough and unique enough to calibrate to ...

!

What happened? Are you alright, Ms. Hissabeth?

Was that you? Did you cast that arcane skill just now?

No, those energy levels were too high for you—beyond most arcanists. Who was with you just now?

Voyager.

She was just trying to make me feel better. Did it interfere with your experiments? I apologize, Ms. Hissabeth. I promise it won't happen again.

She just left. If you want to find her, I'll go with you.

Are you saying she was the one that cast that arcane skill?

Yes. It was so pretty. It was like ...

A neutron star.

It's a type of highly magnetized star that emits powerful beams that can be traced to show us its precise location. We call them the beacons of space.

Such a strong arcane reaction would be so bright that it'd be trivial to locate even from an extreme distance!

I don't know much about space, but it sounds like the difference between finding a star in the sky and looking for the sun.

But then the universe is also very big. I imagine if you were looking from far enough away, even the sun would seem small.

Damn! I'm afraid you're right. When comparing all the stars in the observable universe, our sun is far from the largest or brightest. Only the closest. We can't assume proximity in our case.

But then, there's still got to be a way, non?

Before the "Storm" arrives, the levels of arcane energy in all affected areas will be greatly amplified. But, what about places that won't be affected?

Perhaps then, the trick will not be to look for the light in darkness, but for the darkness in the light, like finding a dim bulb in a string of Christmas lights.

If that's the case, I can adjust the portion of runium in order to focus the disk precisely on Plesetsk!

If this works out—

Then I guarantee you will arrive home safe and sound.

Understood. Take care.

What are you up to?

I've been communicating with the garrison in Mirny. They've picked up some abnormal critter activity during their patrols.

Another batch of residents is set to evacuate too. I'll head over to help them shortly.

What about you—your geological survey? Are you staying at the branch, or will you head back to HQ?

Haven't found anything that's worth digging up yet, but I've decided to give it another try. Should be back here in time for the evacuation.

Though I'm hoping to stick around for my little apprentice. She said she'll only give us her decision on joining Laplace once she's back from her mission. I can't wait to hear the good news.

You still pretending not to care?

My concern, whether it exists or not, will have no tangible effect on their results. I just hope they don't kill themselves for nothing.

Hissabeth is planning a final teleportation test the day after tomorrow. I'll be observing from the meeting room.

You know the one we always use upstairs? Early in the afternoon.

I'll likely be in Mirny by then.

Hey, Ulrich! We meet again.

You look even worse than when we last met.

Ah, Ms. Windsong? And Pointer?

What have we here, two of our busiest bees working together in the Plesetsk Branch?

So, when is this "humanitarian vacation" of yours over? Any interest in sparing a little time to watch something fun?

If by "something fun" you mean Dmitry's party, then thanks, but no, thanks.

No, not that. I told you about it before—Hissabeth's teleport disk experiment.

Ah, yes, that one. You know word of it is already spreading through HQ and all the other branches?

And? What's the impression?

I wouldn't categorize it as "good," but it has certainly become a contentious topic.

At least one of the bigwigs is supportive—Madam Lucy. It seems she intends to keep our experiment going either way. She even invited a prominent String-Theory Researcher to HQ.

As I said, even if we don't get the results we hoped for, the work itself can be illuminating.

Excuse me. I have obligations to attend to.

Let's talk again later.

S**t! I forgot my badge, and Pointer's gone. How am I supposed to get back to the lab?

Sorry, Ulrich, do you mind walking me back?

By the way, you didn't answer whether you'll be at Hissabeth's experiment.

I'm ready. Remember to stay within the safe zone.

The medical team is helping with the evacuation, so we need to be extra careful this time.

Miss, are you sure I shouldn't be the one doing this? I've mastered my arcane skill. I'll be able to protect myself.

No, no, no. Look at all the files here. They might give you a paper cut. It's an unacceptable risk for our astronaut. Even the slightest abrasion could explode under the pressure of lift-off.

No need for concern. We've done the simulations and cross-checked the data thoroughly.

To aid in the disk's mental preparation, I even read it Madam Lucy's speech and some Laplace essays on the scientification of arcane skills.

But—

Kiperina.

Take the others behind the blast door.

I'll use my arcane skill to protect the field as much as I can.

In order to maintain communication, you'll need to stay behind that door, or else the signal will be disrupted. But with my arcane skill, the risk should be minimal.

What if something goes wrong? What will you do?

I will take care of myself. The only thing I ask is that you pay close attention to what I do.

Because in the worst-case scenario, if you find yourself out there alone, you'll need to be able to perform this intuitively.

I don't know if I'm ready.

Maybe, but it's still too early to give up, little astronaut.

But ...

Enough talking. We don't have time for any dramatic farewells.

Wait, whose ID is this? Couldn't be Pointer's. She packs meticulously. Let me guess. Windsong?

I knew it. How is she gonna get back into the lab?

I'll just have to surprise her with it later.

Where would you place their odds?

Perhaps more importantly, is there any guarantee the data they collect will elucidate meaningful truths behind the "Storm"?

You know as well as I do. Laplace hasn't mastered the art of prediction. We don't offer guarantees.

Besides, maybe our demon already knows how this all ends, but I'd rather not.

Personally, I hate spoilers.

As do I.

Slackers? Slackers!

Yes, I've found the room. Thank you.

Is that Adler?

Mr. Ludwig?

I'm glad to see you're so devoted to our research, and I thank you for your hard work.

I'm here to deliver the "Storm" Monitor on behalf of Madam Lucy.

Given our lack of resources and time, we were forced to modify an existing device to perform as our monitor.

It was originally a robotic assistant, something to set daily schedules and work reminders.

You already noticed Adler's voice. It's synthetic, of course.

His colleagues originally developed this machine for him as a "humanitarian gesture." It was trained to mimic his voice—an attempt to keep him social.

It ultimately proved ineffective in that role, so now it will serve as our monitor.

I understand. Given the circumstances, recycling resources is wise. Though, I struggle to see how a robotic assistant could be a "humanitarian gesture."

Your appreciation is noted. And I supposed you might. In fact, this vacation Madam Lucy sent you on to Plesetsk is a kind of "humanitarian gesture" on her part. Perhaps she hopes you'll gain a deeper understanding of the term.

...

Mind if I take a closer look? Wow, there are a lot of voice packs programmed into this thing. "How to Temper Steel"—Madam Lucy's voice, I'd bet.

And then, what else is here? Sweetheart, the superstar? Oh, and Sputnik-1 too.

"Warm and Fluffy Company," who could that be?

'%#@&*$#!

What a waste of time! Why would a monitor need a critter's voice in space?

Maybe they just put it in for fun. It could be useful to relieve a little stress.

Oh, perfect timing. Hissabeth has entered the testing grounds.

Field report. I activated the disk, but it's not working. There must be an error in its incantation.

Oh, the indicator is red, so then it must still be accumulating arcane energy. It may be calibrating its position within the range I set.

But what about all this excess energy? I worry it might not just transport me but half the office.

Any last words? If you explode, I call dibs on your fish.

Have some patience. It's doing something.

Bad news: I don't think any of those fish are gonna survive.

Wish me a safe journey!

I can hear you brainstorming, Ulrich. It's oddly literal.

...! ..., ...!

Hey, watch out!

You know, Hissabeth, there's gentler ways to make an entrance.

I—can't—hear—you!

Poor fish. I attempted to turn my aquarium into a fireproof ceramic to keep it safe, but it looks like it just made it easier to shatter.

Wait ...

Uh-oh, I forgot about this.

Luckily, it didn't affect the card itself.

That's a unique design. Thanks. It might make for a nice conversation piece.

Congratulations, Ms. Hissabeth.

Your results appear more than adequate. Indeed, you have exceeded my expectations.

Is that stuffy-office talk for a good job? Merci, all the same.

Congrats! So, does your success here mean my lovely apprentice has a chance to land back on Mother Earth safely?

More than a chance now. Though, I'm afraid the adjustments we've made to the process will be impossible to replicate at scale.

Nonetheless, you've convinced me.

Your application for delayed evacuation is approved.

But I haven't even submitted it yet?

Well, you may submit it now.

So, that's why you're back here with that torn-up application form?

I gotta tell you, it's impressive you managed to piece it back together.

At least I learned something from it: Don't teleport paper products without a protective sheath.

We seem so close to success.

I will keep training. I need to stay at my best for our launch day.

I know. I won't push myself too hard. Thanks, Voyager.

We don't have much time left. Remember to rest too, while you still can.

You should take a day off. Consider it a celebration of our successful experiment.

Actually, I believe Ms. Hissabeth already has plans for me. We still have a lot of work to do.

Plans? Yes, that we do.

I need to train you to use the monitor. You will have to confirm the final coordinates on the disk and be able to perform the final safety checks before launching.

Oh, I think it may be necessary to implement a particular procedure that Ludwig mentioned.

A "humanitarian vacation."

Allow me. These should be the last boxes.

Leave them, miss. Just tell us which ones should be moved, and we'll take care of them. We all got our own jobs to do.

Will you leave with the others tomorrow, or are you staying on until the final evacuation?

Our orders are to evacuate to Zeno's nearest base tomorrow.

How about you? We were responsible for escorting the last staff members from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. That place should be empty now, shouldn't it?

An evacuation like this has to be for something big. I'm sure you know better than I do.

If you can, miss, find somewhere safe, ASAP.

I'm leaving Mirny tonight, just as soon as I help finish with the evacuation.

There are fewer troops around now. Have there been any further orders?

Some were sent to clear the roads. There's been more critters blocking the way lately.

I guess the others were assigned to an urgent support mission. So it's just the rookies like me left.

Evacuations can be dangerous. A job like this shouldn't be left to new recruits.

You think so? Honestly, I was hoping for a little challenge. But we're soldiers, we follow orders.

Do you need a lift?

Thanks, but I'm going back to check on the evacuation. Be safe.

So, this is our "humanitarian vacation" here? An open mining pit?

You've got it.

It's nearby and easy to reach. I can't see a reason why we shouldn't come check it out. The only problem is I got the timing a little off.

But just you wait, it won't be long now before the aurora shows up.

We've recruited a great team from Laplace and the Foundation and worked out the kinks of our teleport disk. If we can just manage to collect some useful data ...

Our future could be brighter than any aurora.

I hate to be negative at a time like this, but this is still a big gamble.

But we won big today. Didn't you join us to bring about a better future? Just think, our achievements on this project could pave the way to a promotion or at least a transfer.

Don't try to butter me up with promotion talk. Anyway, it's bad luck to talk like that right before a mission. Worse than bad luck—it's cliche.

Strangers coming together to do great deeds, risking mortal peril for the good of humanity. Now, just before the climax, we'll start talking about our motivations and backstories.

All to give the story a twist: when someone bites it in the last act, and then the whole gang is haunted by their last moments of peace together.

Oh, there's a theory about that! What is it called again? Right, quantum entanglement.

Where I'm from, there's a book called Yijing that has a similar idea, that the things we do are mirrored in faraway places.

How are things proceeding? I'm here to perform a final check on the evacuation.

It's going well. We're all ready to leave.

It's just these flowers. We thought about planting them somewhere, just so we don't need to carry them, but with the soil frozen over ...

Flowers?

Yes, you know, from the seeds you gave us. My daughter planted them just for fun, but they really thrived!

Mommy said it's really really difficult.

It's a miracle! Miss, but you and I did it together!

Yes, I suppose it indeed appears miraculous. But how are you going to take them with you? I think it will be a bit too heavy to carry on the road.

We've given away the rest to some of our neighbors. But these are the ones that bloomed the best. It hurts to think we'd just leave them here to die.

It's so cold now, and it's getting hard to find food. We know we have to evacuate soon, but no one has told us where we're going, or what's next.

Despite all the hardship, these seeds you gave us somehow managed to bloom under my daughter's care. Look, they're absolutely radiant!

If even these little flowers are ready to fight to survive, how can we give up?

That's true.

Thank you. I'm not aware of the local species of flowers here, but I'm certain all the same that these are the most beautiful flowers in Mirny.

I hope you can find a way to take them with you.

Hey, am I seeing things? Pointer?

Oh, hey! Weren't you on vacation? Why are you back here with the evacuation team?

Well, I had nothing else to do anyway, and we need all the help we can get.

Did you hear? There's still a team at Plesetsk. Ludwig even approved a delayed evacuation for them.

I guess they're planning to stay to the very last moment. Can you believe that?

Ludwig actually approved it? They are going to stay in the Cosmodrome?

Unbelievable, right? That takes a lot of guts. Who would have guessed we had people like that here at Laplace?

If you've got time, maybe you should go check on them, see if you can talk some sense into them.

Anyway, I have a street of houses to check one by one for stragglers, so I've got to get back to it.

Oh. It's freezing cold out there. Don't forget to check the components. I'll catch up with you when we get back to the branch.

...

Everything is made of atoms. From afar, Mount Taihang is like a grindstone, the Yellow River is like a belt, and all these things are but dust.

In other words, maybe the reason why we're here is only a complete coincidence.

Hold it, hold it, let's just get back to the topic at hand. I think I'm allergic to poetry.

Aww, I want to hear the rest. Would you please let him finish?

No way. I think I'd rather take a chance on that lethal backstory cliche. How about you start us off?

Um, sure. What do you want to know?

Are you curious about why I chose our loose yet ambitious team?

"Loose yet ambitious," that's a good description.

You brought it up. Now spit it out, and make it simple.

Maybe I shouldn't have oversold it. I just think you have a good plan.

What if this works? What if we do this and it changes the world? And I could be a part of that? It's a tempting thought. Don't you think?

I just don't want to see another place I hold dear lost to the "Storm."

So, you mean it was for your hometown?

Yeah, I guess you could say that.

Isn't your homeland still here in this era?

Have you just accepted the fact that it will disappear ... again?

My home isn't in this era. Maybe the names are the same, same old familiar buildings, but nothing that matters to me. What's gone is gone.

Don't feel bad for me though. Now, I have my own "portable hometown."

Hey, I always figured you kept that around in case you needed some quick cash, you know, like those pirates that had coin earrings.

Oh, no. My brother said he would kill me if I gave this away.

It's meant to be for "the last living child," a family heirloom of sorts. If I lost it, I think my family would crawl out of their graves and haunt me, if they had graves. Still, if I was in dire need ...

A-Alia, family?

No, Voyager, this is not my family. They're in Utrennyaya.

These are my friends.

Friends.

You told me that as long as there are living people to remember what has been, that what we're doing will be worthwhile. I've tried to accept that, but I still can't.

What has been ... It's not just an old building or some candy in a store. It's the place I grew up and the people I love that will be taken away.

It's everything in my life. It is my life.

I know I must accept it, that I can do nothing but accept it, but how can I ever accept it?

About that ...

I don't know.

When I heard about my parents' deaths, I was just stepping onto the bus to Laplace. I felt like I had no time to even think about it.

I guess I mistook that for acceptance. After all, there's nothing I could do to change it.

Then about three months later, I broke my pen while writing a research log.

I cried for 40 hours. FORTY HOURS. And I'm not exaggerating. I'm grateful my roommate didn't have me committed.

Was it your parents' pen?

Nah. Just an ordinary Laplace office pen. They give them out by the box load.

But back home when I broke something, my parents would tease me for being careless, and then we would find a new one together.

You can't really accept a thing like this. The only thing you can do is put your pain aside and find something to do with yourself.

Even if it's just making a ball of tape. Just wrap a ball, round and round, over and over, until you've forgotten what it even looked like inside.

Maybe that is something I can try.

Cool, you should. I'm speaking from my experience. You know, when you're young, everything bad seems like the end of the world. Forgetting your homework might as well be the apocalypse.

Are you going home, Mr. Raccoon?

No, I'm heading out for a mission.

Vila said it's a time that you're familiar with, but that you didn't ever plan on going back.

I know Vila had another home before she moved to Rayashki. You must have one too!

What was it like? Does it snow there?

Yes. It snowed there, so much that it made the trees sag and covered up your footprints as soon as you walked past.

When the Volkhov froze over, my sister and I would go and fish from holes we cut in the ice.

Comrade Pasono once fell in the ice doing that. We didn't see him at school for weeks.

Playing on the ice can be dangerous, little Avgust.

But it's all gone now. No matter the era, even if I went back to that little dot on the map, it would never be the same.

Like Rayashki.

Just like Rayashki.

That is why we must stay alive, then things will work out some day.

Lyonya, stay alive. That's the most important thing.

Keep going. Follow the route I told you. Never look back.

Being certified as capable for an independent field mission means you're an official Foundation member. Congrats in advance.

Most people here use an alias, though it's all up to you. Just make sure you pick a good one. It's not easy to change once it's confirmed.

I see. Thank you for telling me.

Let me check. Alright, no problem.

The "Storm" has made everyone's life harder here. The Foundation is always in need of more manpower, and in need of honest men like you even more so.

Welcome to the St. Pavlov Foundation Far East Branch, Mr. Name Day.

You're thinking about something. Missing your home again, yes?

It's okay. Vila said as long as we pay attention in class and keep learning, we will be able to rebuild Rayashki in the future.

We will rebuild it as long as each and every comrade keeps that goal in their mind, and I will never forget.

You can do it, Comrade Raccoon.

Thank you very, very much, Comrade Avgust.

Come here, Alia. You can have the best seat.

Oh, I think for now, I'd prefer to be called Kiperina.

Hurry up. You don't get an aurora like this every night.

You need those charged particles up there for your arcane skill.

I thought we were here for a vacation.

It can be more than one thing. You do need this though.

Stay calm. Walking in space is definitely going to be easier than walking a tightrope.

There's no absolute direction up there. Up or down depends on the reference you choose.

In short, there's no "falling down."

Tomorrow, no, the day after tomorrow, I'll be up there drifting above the Earth with the stars.

I wonder if they'll feel warm to the touch.

The night is so cold. Back with the Utrennyaya, on nights like this, I would sneak into the pens and sleep beside Masha—the bear cub I took care of. She was so warm to cuddle.

And now I'm here, huddled with all of you. Oh, sorry, I'm not suggesting you remind me of bears.

It just feels safe.

There were times, during the coldest winter nights, that my siblings and I would cuddle up with the stray dogs to keep ourselves warm.

Hold on. You people don't just hibernate through the winter? You're missing out.

Alright, we should head back. We don't want our little astronaut to be too tired.

Hey, you think I don't see what you're doing? You haven't told us your story yet.

It's been on my mind since I first got here: why would you do all this? You don't strike me as the hopeless dreamer type.

I don't? Well, I should make more of an effort to match the stereotype.

It's not so dreamy though. I just wanna know the answers. Where do we come from and how things will end?

What? Not convincing enough?

Perhaps you want something more in-depth?

Way back when, before all this, Pointer and I were being driven mad by work, we would walk out here and there was something she would say to me.

Language is a tool that permits us to describe how the universe was created and how it will end.

Through it, we reflect on our existence. In order to understand eternity, we must first understand death and impermanence.

What do you think? Good impression of her, non? Everyone says it's my best.

Tomorrow might be our last free day before the "Storm." I guess it's fitting then to ask the age-old question:

If tomorrow was the last day of your life, what would you do?

Do everything we can, and do my best.

Leave no regrets.

That's why I have to finish my training.

"Kiperina."

What do you think? Natalya and I decided on it together. She's a clever one, always reading the latest astrological lectures.

It's from a place in the stars. Kuiper, she calls it, some asteroid belt made of ice.

This is because, to us, you are a gift from the stars!

We're leaving tonight? Why all the rush? Let's wait one day later, or maybe two. Why don't we ask that Laplace lady to see Alia again?

I am sure she is too busy. But look, everyone's leaving town! Something must be happening.

She'll be safe there. Didn't you hear them say that? Laplace's building will be the last to fall, even if the whole world comes to an end.

What we must do then is keep ourselves safe. That way, some day in the future, we will have the chance to see her again, sitting in the audience, clapping for us, until her hands are red.

My big bear wants to pretend he doesn't have a heart. I know you miss her as much as I do.

Of course, but I must stay in control of myself. Maybe we can put something on the signboard—a circle, like her space helmet.

You know that signboard hasn't been changed since my grandfather was the ringmaster. What a change it will be!

Yes, yes, and we will add some stars and spaceships. I'll paint them on once we're set up in Moscow. Oh, and don't forget to take down their address so we can send things to her.

You think I didn't do that the minute we came here? Natalya, you're showing so much concern. What happened to my carefree circus wife?

It's just that there is nothing else I can do.

We've always been there for her. Now she's alone and far from us, who will care for her now?

*sigh* It is how it must be. We cannot be there for her forever.

You can't do this your whole life.

Audiences come to watch an acrobat fly, but they also come to see if they will fall.

Most people would never dare to walk on a tightrope.

They pay to see people do the thrilling things that they would never do themselves.

But it is a dangerous business. I often wish that you will one day find a safer way to live than this.

Time never ends. It's a concept, and there are many explanations for it.

One suggests that since the whole world is made of particles, including our brains, then our minds too can be calculated, so that everything that's happening or about to happen can be predicted.

Past, present, future. All that ever was, and is, and ever will be, was destined from the moment the universe began. Each moment like a knot on a string that's already been tied.

Our lives just moving along a fixed track from birth to death.

Then there is another, the theory that none of this is really happening at all, that all perception is illusion. Only the present exists, and only for as long as we're experiencing it.

If you asked me to choose, I prefer the first one.

It's not like a tightrope then. When I walk on the rope, I don't see past and future. I only feel what is happening right now.

For example, these lights make my palms feel hot and warm. But the stones beneath me are cold.

Cool, sounds like you favor the second theory.

But it doesn't matter which side you're on. There's one thing both have in common.

Our existence—whatever you make of it—is just a fleeting moment in time.

But those countless moments string together into eternity.

I'm small to the universe, just a person, but I'm a part of Utrennyaya, which is bigger than myself. We belong to a people, a country, a planet, and a galaxy.

Maybe that's how we share in eternity, by existing as part of it. Each one of us, no matter how small, takes part in creating the universe.

You got it.

When we learn all the rules that govern our universe, we'll be able to predict all that is to come. We'll be able to survive without superstition and fear of the unknown.

Children grow up, adults grow old, and then we die, so what's the use in worrying? All that matters is our Alia will be safe.

Mr. Kozlov? You should have already left. The longer you wait to leave, the more dangerous it will be.

Is-Is there something wrong then? We are ready to go, as-as you can see. We're all packed up.

No. Nothing to be concerned with for now. But we need you to follow the evacuation notice for your safety. Keep your passes with you. You may need to show the soldiers on the road ahead. And please take care. The snowfall is getting heavier.

Sure, sure. But if you don't mind my asking ...

Is Alia alright? How is she? How's her training? Sorry, it's just ... I know that she's a good girl, but I'm afraid she'll push herself too much. She's always been so diligent.

You have nothing to worry about. Kiperina is a very disciplined and intelligent young woman. We've been most impressed with her work.

I believe that she could have a very promising future with Laplace.

Promising! I knew it. My Alia is a promising candidate for Laplace!

*sigh* When we first found her in Murmansk, she was just an orphaned babe. And now, see how wonderful she has become.

I believe I understand. Time really does fly, doesn't it?

Thank you for telling me about her. I've wanted to pay her a visit, but I don't want to bother her, and I also don't think she wants to see an old man cry.

But if you say she is doing well, this is enough for me. But I must ask, miss. Why are you still in town? Aren't you going to be busy with the launch soon?

I'm here to see if we missed anything.

Sorry, miss, but we've already packed everything away. I'm leaving on the last truck tomorrow morning.

There was still some fresh food around yesterday, but today I've got nothing.

All I can offer you is a mug of boiled water and some gingerbread.

That will be enough. Thanks.

Wow. This gingerbread tastes amazing.

You bet. I'm originally from Novomoskovsk. We're famous for it. I think I told your friend the story last time she was here.

I'm no good with hammers or rocks, but I know food, and the miners always work up a healthy appetite.

My friend, Raisa, makes much better gingerbread than I do. Sometimes I think the only reason people eat here is for the conversation, heh heh ...

The winter chill keeps everyone huddled inside. So, what else can you do but talk the long nights away?

It is good to have someone to talk to. Still, I'm curious why you decided to stick around until the last minute.

I'm in no rush. No one's bothered to explain why it is we have to evacuate, so I'll let all the young folks with something to live for get out first.

Could I ask you a question as well?

Sure, but I can't guarantee I'll have an answer.

It's only that my friend lived in a town a lot like this, a mining town. They had their own big shots running things there too.

In her last letter, she told me that those big shots were talking about evacuating them. Then, nothing. It's been years, and I haven't heard from her since.

Forget it, miss. It's a small town. I doubt you or anyone knows what really happened there.

*sigh* I often wonder where she is now, or if she's even alive, but I hope that I will see her again some day.

...

Sorry, I really don't know.

Perhaps they did evacuate, but relocation can be complicated. It can take years. Maybe you'll hear from her again when she settles down.

Yes, that's true. These things take time. Well, at least I can sleep at night.

Sunflowers.

Freeze-dried apples, and ...

Oh, I forgot to pack those. It's amazing, isn't it, when you think about it? Even here in the far north, we can get fresh fruit and vegetables.

I guess this technology was invented to make food for cosmonauts, but now people in Mirny get to enjoy it too! The benefits of science, heh heh.

You can take some if you'd like. I have no room for them.

Thank you. I'll be fine with just this. You've actually already helped me out a lot.

No veggie packets, hah.

Can my day get any worse?

They act as if all of their essential and valuable consumer technology just popped up out of nowhere!

To think that aerospace engineering has less to contribute than their other projects?! S**t! They wouldn't even have vegetable packets in their instant noodles without us!

Come on, pull yourself together, Pointer. We don't buy into karma.

This is only another damn coincidence.

...

Tastes awful, hmph.

Final check.

Spaceship?

We've run a full diagnostic check. All components are operational. We're fully fueled, and we even installed that new insulation you invented.

Data monitoring and communication systems?

Check. All systems are functional, including the backups.

Astronaut status?

I'm all checked out too. My arcane skill energy level, physical and mental status, and the integrity of my spacesuit are all within your parameters.

Is there anything else we've missed? Anything at all?

Ah, what about our special humanitarian support staff? Maybe we should give her a check too.

*a cheerful tune*

Alright, dismissed. I'll see you at the launch bay doors in three hours.

Now everyone, cool off a bit. We need to decompress before the action starts. Stay in touch via your communicators. I need everyone frosty. We're in the last mile now.

There are still some things left to be checked through. If only we had more help.

Mirny is so cold even in the daylight.

At least the evacuation has gone smoothly.

Well, that's a security risk.

Scamper off and don't come back. I don't have time for another round.

I don't really know how much time I have left at all.

These "Storm" predictions are based on fluctuations in arcane energy levels. There's even a chance that this won't be the "Storm" at all, just some kind of arcane phenomenon.

No matter what the case may be, I can't afford an odyssey at a time like this.

I have to get to the Cosmodrome, ASAP.

Arcane energy fluctuations aren't a perfect method of predicting the "Storm."

What if all these fluctuations are something else, something like that girl?

Voyager, a mysterious girl with unbelievable power. I should let the Foundation handle this. I can't force her to join in an experiment against her will.

There are too many redundant steps in the launching system. We need to streamline them if we're going to make our deadline.

Aren't those steps important for safety?

Yeah, yeah, probably, but the process is too complicated. I think Pointer was the only one that ever managed to remember each step in order.

Oh, so now you're thinking of her again?

Yeah, whatever. I could use another hand, is all. She's probably still in the branch building, busy with her own stuff.

Besides—

Hey, you hear that?

It's an intruder! Hurry, we've got to stop them!

Effortless steps from a tall figure, with a tendency to lean forward.

Sounds familiar. Could it be Windsong? Did she leave something behind again?

...?

Are you alright? You look like you haven't slept in days.

How many times have I told you that research requires a healthy body and mind? You need sleep.

I'm ... here for ...

Just so you know, I've got no time to help with whatever you're working on, and we're finishing this project, no matter what you say.

Oh, let me guess. You're here for the car? Yes, I've used it a few times, took the team out to the mine, didn't break anything or get any tickets, but the tank's dry.

It's not about any of that!

Then you should have come earlier—days earlier, not today.

The "Storm" is due to come in a couple hours. You won't make it to the Northern Branch.

I'm here to settle your affairs. We need to secure your records in case you don't make it, and to see if the work you've done is actually worth your lives.

Just so you know, if you don't survive, I'm going to finish our teleport disk and claim all the credit. Maybe I'll write a dissertation on it. I'll call it "Pointer's Teleport Disk," and you'll all just be a footnote, an "et al." in the citations.

You know I'm not bluffing.

Cool, whatever, Pointer. Just don't forget to tell me the results. Maybe send them to me via Ouija board.

Are you being serious?

Aren't you? Or are you trying to be funny now? I really can't tell.

I'm just sick of eating instant noodles without the veggie packets!

But more than that, I'm sick of you and your attitude!

All you do is joke around!

If veggies matter that much to a stupid bowl of noodles, how could you think your lives matter any less to me?!

You want to treat your lives like a cosmic joke? Like your deaths won't matter. Well, they will to the ones you leave behind.

I see your point.

Luckily, I've already made a copy of everything on this data card.

I've been wondering who I should trust with it. It's not 100% safe to send back through the teleportation ritual.

It's good to have you back.

The editing isn't done. Han Zhang—yeah, I can remember his name now—I didn't have time to finish his part.

But who has time to edit a suicide note?

The only thing that matters is that it's in the hands of someone who will take it seriously.

Take it and go. You can still make it back.

*sigh* Forget it. You already told me the car's out of gas.

So, I'll be your witness.

You sure you wanna die with us, after all?

Call it a fool's wish, but I'm hoping no one is ever going to need to see this.

Catch me up to speed, what's the status of the project?

We've managed to refine the teleportation to pinpoint a fixed position, but there are still some serious side effects: dizziness, nausea, like the world's worst case of carsickness.

It'll have to suffice for now. I think I can work that out after I finish reading your progress.

Cool, I'll look forward to that.

Your office should be the same as you left it, besides a layer of dust. Be grateful though. You should see the state of mine.

Oh, and don't activate the teleportation anywhere around here. If it takes out the single critical component, we'll be screwed completely.

Like I don't know.

You need a hand here? I can help.

I thought we already figured out our roles? You need to stay at a safe distance to protect the data.

That's it.

Ha. I always thought I wasn't able to act against my safety programming.

Yet here we are.

Do you have a sense of taste?

Yeah. I was designed to simulate all aspects of life.

Really? But whose life? Who decided whether it should be a human's or arcanist's life?

I suppose you are probably another Awakened arcanist, like Ulrich and Madam Lucy.

Not exactly. But the details can wait.

I thought you would be more encouraging at such a vital moment. Guess my prediction matrix is not quite as perfect as I've let on.

I am encouraging you. I'm trying to prove your existence matters.

Well, I should go. Take care.

Time for another double-check. Everything needs to be flawless.

Pointer!

You know, I should have mentioned something before, something I wanted you to see.

There are Melusine statues everywhere in Lusignan!

I left a long time ago, but they should still be there. Even the "Storm" can't wash them away. They've been there for ages!

Go take a look if you ever get the time!

I don't think Laplace would cover that as a scientific excursion.

Alia. Come home.

That was three whole words!

Maybe once you learn a few more, you can tell me where you're really from.

...

My sister sent me to tell you it's time.

And that you shouldn't be afraid. You'll make one cool astronaut, ask any of us.

I'm not afraid.

When I return, remind me to show you Natalya's famous jam recipe.

Final diagnostics completed.

We're clear for launch in T-minus one minute.

Is there anything else I have to remember?

Yes: keep breathing.

Really, a joke now? Or are you serious?

It can be both things.

Now get ready, and have a safe flight.

Three.

Two.

One.

Ignition.

Altitude rising. All systems normal.

Cool. Stay on comms.

Welcome to Laplace! Error, new coordinates detected. Correction: Welcome to ...

Location coordinates not found! Reconfirming ... S**t! Location not found! S**t!

Cancel the location process. Load preset program.

Activate the "Storm" surveillance system.

Voice authorization approved. Iris recognition recognized. Operator identified. Operation access granted.

Good luck. Special Warning: Mind all liquids in the vicinity of machinery, especially alcohol!

We've reached our target altitude.

Now, I will open the hatch, adjust the celestial coordinates, and deploy the monitor as planned.

Copy that.

Excuse me! Please handle me with care!

...!

Report, the effects of the "Storm" are now being observed.

Warning! Warning! Arcane energy fluctuations approaching safety thresholds!

Extreme light warning! Close the blinds! Remember to wear your safety goggles when arc welding! S**t! S**t!

Why am I here? I haven't activated the teleportation ritual yet.

Is the mission over?

<glitch>‘@#%￥！&#%！</glitch>

I don't understand! Please repeat!

Please repeat! I can't understand what's going on.

Warning! Energy fluctuations are now exceeding safety thresholds!

There's too much interference in the signal. We've got no response!

Connect to the monitor directly.

This is a planet.

I can see the rise and fall of the landscape. It's so strange here.

<glitch>‘@#%￥！&#%！</glitch>

Come back. I need to record what I'm seeing here.

Are those lights getting dimmer?

I need to keep going.

A figurine?

I think I need to take this with me.

The lights are fading out. I need to move faster.

The only path left.

This won't be a problem. I've lived my whole life keeping balanced on a thin wire.

...

Seven minutes left. The connection to the monitor is stable.

Start the countdown. We'll try it another three times. If we still don't get a response after that, we'll need to activate the monitor's auto return program.

I don't have a lot of hope in that basket case of a monitor, but if it's our only option ...

Just keep hailing her. We have to put our trust in Kiperina.

<glitch>‘@#%￥！&#%！</glitch>

Where are you going? It's dangerous there!

No! Not like this!

My existence will be small and short. There are many, many others like me, searching for answers from the universe.

But there is no answer to be found. No answers but the ones we choose for ourselves.

It's been our choice the whole time.

The past is in the past, and the future will wait for us. There is no time to be spared on regrets in the moment.

I must keep going, venture further into this world to uncover what's in the distance, to know whether things that vanish come back or not.

I must keep going or die trying.

We have reached our designated coordinates.

I made it?

The indicator light is on, just like in my training.

The coordinates are, well, close enough. Good.

The rest is simple.

I need to get back. I need to get back to Earth.

I ...

I can have this handled. First, I need to ...

...

We lost the signal!

Switch to line two and try again.

Testing comm backup line. Line two, lost. Line three, lost. Line four, lost.

Keep trying to reconnect.

...

Reconnecting ...

Connection lost.

I should have thought this through! This isn't like the rope I used in the circus.

No, if I do that, the monitor will be pulled out of sync.

Okay, forget the backups. Switch to the main connection.

Start evacuation preparations now. I'll activate the return program in fifty seconds.

But how will we know if she's in the return capsule?

Forty seconds—We won't. Either she makes it, or she doesn't. It's out of our hands.

The teleportation ritual won't have enough energy if it isn't at the exact critical moment of the "Storm."

I have faith in her. She'll come home.

I have to go home. People are waiting for me down there.

But I don't have much time. I need something.

Maybe you can turn them into a knife or something.

A knife would be more useful at this point. You know, to cut fruit or whatever.

Actually, that card there on the table would work better for that.

Why is that?

It's all about the material. Metal makes a better edge than paper. Never quite understood why you made them like that.

Oh. I was testing out the new alloy. I used it to make Windsong's and Pointer's cards. It gets harder and sharper when heated. Give it a rub with your hands, and you can use it as a letter opener.

Ley Lines, of course! Thank you, Ms. Windsong!

It was a pleasure working with all of you. If we survive this, I'm giving you permanent discounts at my store. Provided we survive.

How big are these discounts? Tell me now. I need to know how much I will live!

Stay away, please. Your violin is fragile.

I hope there will still be weekends in the afterlife.

If there is anything after this, then we deserve overtime pay for all eternity.

How can you be thinking of work right now!

The return capsule is ready to detach. Coordinate calibration complete.

Please return to your seat.

It looks like everything worked out smoothly.

Yes, I will make it. This is the last step. The simplest one.

Take me home.

...!

Is it me, or?

Imaging data transmission complete.

Reconfirming coordinates. RA: 14h, 49m, 09.55s ...

Look, that's Hissabeth. See the snakes on her head? Seems like one of them's still awake. Told you they have independent minds.

Hold on. Those two work with the Foundation.

Out of the way! Go get medical support now!

That's Miss Pointer, isn't it? So then this must be the team from the Space Monitor Project. Have they failed again?

Hold on. Check it out! If this data is really from the space monitor ...

DEC: –102°, 05m, 45.82s.

The "Storm" is here. Please take precautions. Repeat, the "Storm" is here.

It's all here. They really did it. They did it!

"Our engineers are currently developing measures to minimize the effects of the high pressure and temperature ..."

I ...

I'm on Earth.

"Beginning in 1970, the current drilling project has been a labor of the past seven years. Its depth is predicted to soon surpass that of the Bertha Rogers Hole at 9583 meters ..."

1977, that was the year that Mr. Kozlov found me.

Could that mean that I will be able to see them again?

You'll need to take care of yourself first, little astronaut.

Rebuilding a life requires a healthy body first. But I'm certain you are in good hands here.

Thank you, but who are ...

This is my friend, Vila. My dearest, bravest comrade.

And this is Kiperina. Would you mind if I introduced you as my apprentice?

Not at all. I've made up my mind.

I want to keep learning The Study of Ley Lines.

That's the second-best news I've heard today.

Hissabeth, Name Day, and Han Zhang are all still recovering in bed. You should've seen Pointer. She was mad as all hell. Claimed she'd be waiting for them to recover so she could whoop them back into the recovery ward.

Anyways, I thought I'd best avoid that scene and pay a visit to my new apprentice.

So, then the best news you had today—we did it, right?

That's good news for sure. But still not the best.

...

Did we get that progress report on the Laplace teleportation project?

The teleport disk? Yeah, I guess it was a big success. They're already working on the field mission applications.

Imagine if they could put it into mass production. I'd use it to commute straight to work. No more traffic.

You'd better hope not. They'll start using it to summon us straight from home. It'll be like being on-call 24/7.

Holy moly! I didn't think of that. Worse still, those Laplace workaholics would probably enjoy it.

Well, it's not all bad. We got the data—real-time observation of the universe during the "Storm" from outer space. That's huge.

I'll say, looks like the whole universe is getting reversed, though. I mean, at least it's nice to know we aren't alone.

That's the spirit, man. Look for the silver lining.

Why on earth wasn't that project an open volunteer call? Who wouldn't want to go to space? If I got the chance to spacewalk, I'd never let anyone forget it. You'd see it on my tombstone.

I know someone on their team, Name Day. I'll ask him about it next time we're out for a drink. Too bad he is already out on another field mission.

He's working for Laplace now too. Working two jobs at once, wow!

Is that admiration I hear? I thought you didn't like workaholics.

I just don't want to be one. Still, things are going better now. We'll have this little "Storm" problem solved soon enough.

Shh, Alvin, did you hear that?

What? Oh.

...

I know the piece. Pointer often plays that record in her office. She said it's a track from the Golden Record.

The same record that Voyager 1 carries.

Where would it have been in 1987? At the edge of the solar system?

Its power won't run out until 2025, so long as there's no "Storm" to stop it.

What will happen to it when it runs out? Will it stop? Or be destroyed?

No, nothing quite so bad. It just won't be able to send signals back to us.

It will keep flying forward in space, continuing its endless journey. And if there is some alien life out there in the universe, they might find it some day.

Perhaps many millions of years after the Earth is gone, swallowed up by the Sun or the "Storm."

To spend so much time and resources on something that won't respond to us after such a short time on a universal scale. It sounds even more useless than our arcane skills.

They didn't send it out expecting to get a quick response.

You're right. I suppose it's just like a friendly greeting.

"Hi there. This is a gift from Earth, a place where life existed. We're trying to survive, but we may be defeated in time."

Aliens or not, it's likely that it will just drift in space forever, but personally, I want to believe that someone's going to listen to that record one day.

Maybe Ms. Kiperina can help us. If you see God up there in space, be sure to ask him what's his favorite piece on the record.

That kind of service is going to cost you. You'll have to pay up with your rib collection.

Before we start thinking about that, we will still need to cross the year 1999, then we can figure out where that record will end up.

Three.

Two.

One.

Hmm, it sounds nice.

Then keep listening. Wait, where are you going?

Just let them do their thing. We should go now. We've got more work waiting for us.

By the way, you were talking about those disks being prepared for field service, right?

Yeah, but I told you everything I know. Ms. Pointer should give us the details in a few days.

Not Ms. Hissabeth, huh? She seems real busy. I guess that's why she only sent one of her snakes to the victory party? I saw Windsong and Vila, though. Oh, and Kiperina was there surrounded by a bunch of kids, and they all stuck around right till the end.

There were a few Zeno guys there too. Whenever there's booze, you can count on them showing up. I think I saw one of their pilots having a drinking contest with a newt. Crazy!

They even roped in Mr. Ulrich. I caught Name Day desperately stopping Medicine Pocket from climbing up on a table to recite a speech.

It was good fun. They even snapped a picture of it by the end.

It's a shame I missed it. I heard Mr. Ludwig values employees' mental health, so at least he'll be hosting more of those parties soon, right? RIGHT?

*humming*

Please listen.

How beautiful ... the stars are.