"And since how long, Krag, have I been required to do things by a
total stranger.... Besides, who is this individual?"

"Krag's chief," said Nightspore, turning his head away.

"The riddle is too elaborate for me. I give up."

"You are looking for mysteries," said Krag, "so naturally you are
finding them. Try and simplify your ideas, my friend. The affair is
plain and serious."

Maskull stared hard at him and smoked rapidly.

"Where have you come from now?" demanded Nightspore suddenly.

"From the old observatory at Starkness.... Have you heard of the
famous Starkness Observatory, Maskull?"

"No. Where is it?"

"On the north-east coast of Scotland. Curious discoveries are made
there from time to time."

"As, for example, how to make voyages to the stars. So this Surtur
turns out to be an astronomer. And you too, presumably?"

Krag grinned again. "How long will it take you to wind up your
affairs? When can you be ready to start?"