Two stories. Two author's works. One, a seasoned professional. The other, a novice with a natural talent. All leading to a resounding and inevitable conclusion. After their falling out over their strengths and failings, Zoyzuban and Kumazov continue their respective paths. The cosmonaut, with his completed and superior product, attempts to battle the dread disease inflicted over the course of his travels. While the veteran scribe, fuelled by hatred and spite, feels his restrictions lifted. So he writes about the darkest days of Georgi's life. Events that the author feels partially responsible for. Further tragedy enters his friend's existence. His mental state, unstable. A thunderous crescendo brings the space traveller to self-imposed exile in the wilderness. Then suddenly, in past and present, signs of hope and closure would apply to both men. And through their efforts, both would redeem themselves as they fulfil their respective destinies... The trilogy reaches its conclusion. A long journey brought to its end.