Belazov had completed his inspection of Dagger Island and supervision of the research work, and now it was time for the military representative to leave.
At the wharf near the port of Dagger Island Bay, Professor Melson, who had come personally to see him off, looked up at the "Sea Swallow" preparing to depart.
Sailors were boarding the ship, port authorities were checking paperwork, and robed clergy, incense burners in hand, paced near the cables, gently waving the incense and offering prayers for the mechanical parts of the vessel.
The weather was clear today, an excellent day to set sail.
Standing on the pier, Belazov watched groups of sailors return to the Sea Swallow and turned to Professor Melson, saying, "Professor, I'm impressed with your research, but I must remind you—the project here on Dagger Island is progressing slowly, and some people in the City-State are growing impatient."
