Epilogue

 

Machin grinned as the light from a round bulb faded and dimmed. “Gelsey, come take a look at this.”

She clucked her tongue. “I’m beginning to understand what you do, but why all this?” She poked a duster at him, the feathers of which smoked at the tips as they came dangerously close to touching the globe.

She pulled back and drew in a breath.

The light in the bulb dimmed and faded. When it was about to snuff out, the glint changed color—from white to gold. It sparked brighter, forming a flame that spread until the globe filled with a starburst of sparkling beams.

Machin snapped his palms together and wheezed a laugh.

“This method helps me keep track of those who move on.” Gently, he removed the lantern from its place and hung it from a separate beam that held no others. His face shined beneath its golden light. “And, now, those who return.”

Each of the lanterns flickered and faded, pulsing together in a concert of light. Machin adjusted his goggles and twitched his head toward the door.

“Gelsey, ready the fire. I’m expecting someone to show for an interview.”

“But how—”

“It’s time. Go on.”

Two strong knocks sounded through the door, followed by a cheerful voice.

“Hello? Is this where I meet for the ’prenticeship?”