Lyon's Pride by Anne McCaffrey

The survival technique of the Hivers was terrifying-and brilliant. Their huge Sphere ships,controlled by the Many Mind of ten to sixteen queens,surged out into space.When an appropriate planet was found,the Hivers destroyed any and every variety of indigenous life,the queens propagated,and when the new world was full,more ships were sent out,the colonization repeated until no planet,no species,least of all Man and Mrdini was safe. The furry and courageous Mrdini had fought the Hivers for centuries,many dying bravely in an attempt to save their own worlds.Now Mrdini and Man combined to form the Alliance- and Humankind had their own weapons to offer-the power and might of the Talents who could not only communicate silently with each other,but could project cargoes,ships and themselves across the deeps of space.

The four children of Damia-Laria,Thian,Rojer and Zara-were Primes amongst the Talents,and all their skills were desperately needed,for the Hivers' terrible Sphere ships were still thrusting through space,unfathomable,impenetrable,and carrying death in their labyrinthine depths.

One of the world's leading science fiction writers, Anne McCaffrey has won the Hugo and Nebula awards for science fiction. Brought up in the U.S. and now living in Ireland, she is the creator and bestselling author of the unique Dragon senes.

Prologue

The first incursion of the Nine Star League by the Hive entities occurred at Deneb where Jeff Raven, and the undeveloped Talents of his planet, staved off a vicious attack by three alien scout ships orbiting Deneb IV Calling for assistance from the Earth Teleportation and Telepathy Prime, Peter Reidinger, Jeff Raven encounters the Rowan, Callisto's Prime. In a mind merge, two of the three invaders are destroyed and the third sent back, as a warning, whence it had come.

Three years later the Mother Hive ship, a spherical leviathan, appears at Deneb heliopause. The Talents once again merge to defend the planet: the Rowan, pregnant with her second child, Cera, is the focus for the feminine minds which then imobilize the Many Female Mind that governs the Hive ship. The male merge, with Jeff Raven as focus, then teleport the Hive ship into Deneb's primary.

Nineteen years later, while recuperating on Deneb, Damia Gwyn-Raven, another T-1 Talent and the daughter of the Rowan and Jeff Raven, and Afra Lyon, a Capellan T-2, have `dreams' which they realize are being implanted by the alien figures which appear in these dreams.

Contact is made with these visitors who call themselves the Mrdini.

Through dreams, the Mrdini explain that they have been defending themselves and their colony worlds against the incursions of the Hive for centuries. They had followed the Hive ship to Deneb and been fascinated by its destruction without loss of life on the part of the defenders. They offer an alliance.

In order to establish meaningful relationships, young `Dinis are placed with human children, in the sound belief that early exposure to another species facilitates understanding. Among those selected for this experiment are the children of Afra and Damia, now Tower Prime for Iota Aurigae, a mining world. Their eight children all have `Dini pairs.

At sixteen, the eldest daughter, Laria, is sent to the `Dini home world of Clarf to teach `Dini human language and to expand her own understanding of the adult vocabulary. At about this time, Mrdini scouts observe three Hive ships which separate before the `Dini can catch up. But the ion trails left by the three are strong and can be followed on their disparate ways.

The Alliance of Mrdini and Nine Star Leaguers decide on a four-pronged expedition: the first element of six ships is to backtrack to see if they can locate the elusive home world of the Hivers. The other three elements are to follow the Hive ships to their destinations, preferably to destroy them if at all possible before they can colonize another world by first sterilizing all existing life-forms.

thian Lyon, Laria's next brother, is seconded by Federation Teleportation and Telepath (FT&T) to the AS Vadim to act as Prime with the tracking mission of four ships, two human, two Mrdini. It is his job to improve communications and relations between the Allies, and to receive supplies to keep the ships moving towards their objective.

Thian has always been interested in naval matters so he is well suited to the assignment. Thian is accompanied by his `Dini pair, Mrg and Dpl (Mur and Dip).

When the Vadim encounters a lifeless stationary derelict, it is identified as a Hive ship, though larger by another third than any previously encountered. It appears to have been destroyed by the heat of an expanding nova. Three escape pods seem to have been used, though others were destroyed in situ. An exploration detail of both `Dini and human is to examine the wreck. Encountering hostility from a crewman, Thian is nearly killed on the Hive ship where he discovers undamaged Hiver eggs. These are sent to be studied by the Alliance xenobiologists. Recovering from his injury, Thian elects to continue with the Mrdini ship, the KLTL, as the Mrdinis insist on being certain that a nova has destroyed the Hive homeworld.

Two of the ships in Thian's element are required to start the derelict on its way to a point at which both Mrdini and human specialists can examine it thoroughly. The remaining three ships decided to track down the three escape pods. It is essential to capture the pods for just one queen is sufficient to establish a new colony.

While Thian continues with the KLTL on towards the site of the nova, the search for the three large ships, as well as the escape pods, continues. Attempts are also being made to reassemble from its shattered parts as much of the Big Hive Sphere as is possible to reconstruct, in an effort to learn more about the enemy.

One of the escaped pods, bearing a live queen, is discovered by the Bequing and captured, safely on tow behind the ship. Afra and his son Rojer are sent out to `port the pod to the Heinlein Moon Station where it can be safely examined in great detail. There is considerable deba and many fictions: some wishing summarily to execute the queen, others wishing to aproach it in an effort to establish communications and knowledge of a species never before captured. The Mrdini are particularly against its maintenance. Rojer, with his father acting as focus, easily transfers queen and pod.

Back on Earth, the captured queen pod is secured with twenty four hour surveillance. When she finally emerges, she is seen as a mantis-type creature, eight limbed, and egg-heavy. Since no-one has had much luck in incubating the eggs discovered on the derelict ship, it is decided to deposit these with her.

There has been considerable objection to keeping the creature alive but those who insist that knowing more about the enemy may be a deciding factor in a final victory over its incursions manage to win the argument.

She is kept alive. Food of all varieties is supplied and she is seen to prefer vegetables or fruit. Her actions, when there are any, are monitored and shown to all interested.

Zara, the fourteen year-old sister of Laria, Thian and Rojer, becomes emotionally involved with what she sees as the queen's dreadful plight and imprisonment.

In a remarkable adventure, Zara arrives at the Observation Station and, distraught by the queen's condition, `ports herself into the facility and realizes that the queen is freezing, being accustomed to a much hotter temperature in her parturitional stage. Zara's intercession saves the queen's life although, despite a hope that there has been some empathy between human and Hiver, this bizarre incident is not repeated nor can Zara explain why she acted as she did. As her parents realize with some regret that Zara is not Tower material, even though a Prime, Elizara, the T-1 medic for whom she was named, and her great-grandmother Isthia decide she may have healing Talents.

Meanwhile, one of the escaping Hive ships has been tracked to a star system where it is obviously slowing down. Rojer is sent to the Genessee to expedite messages for Squadron B - two human ships and one Mrdini which is hovering, undetectable, within an asteroid belt of the system.

The crew watch as the arriving Hiver ship is attacked from moon bases and planetary surfaces. When its ammunition is exhausted, the queens flee in escape pods which are disintegrated. This shocks those on the Genessee. As much as the `Dini have observed of their enemy over the centuries, they are as surprised and stunned as their human allies.

Instead of being allowed to go in blasting, Squadron B and the Genessee are ordered to hold a watching brief, utilizing as many probes as possible, with Rojer's help, to gather information. It is thought that Thian on his way back to `civilization' on the KLTL, which has now definitely established that the Hiver home world was destroyed in the nova, will join or replace his brother on the Genessee.

Two squadrons are still in pursuit of the remaining two Hive spheres while Squadron A, Thian's original group, are searching for the other two pods which evacuated from the Great Sphere before it was hit by the nova shock wave. A waiting game is played on several levels and ethical problems of great magnitude must be addressed by both human and Mrdini civilizations.

During the course of the next few weeks, while Rojer waited for his older brother, Thian, to replace him on board the Genessee, he spent a great deal more time on the bridge than he had originally thought he would.

Not only was Rojer Lyon the T-1 FT&T which linked Squadron B with its home worlds and the means by which the three ships were kept supplied by twice weekly importations of supplies, he was also able to provide other services to the squadron not in his original brief. If he was referred to as `the boy' or `the civilian he couldn't deny `boy' as he was not quite sixteen although tall and well-muscled from an active life on his home planet. He also had inherited the family silver lock of hair which made it difficult for some to believe he hadn't yet reached his majority. Most times these references to his age or status were jocular. Sometimes envy or disparagement tinged these epithets - until he `ported in the next supply drones when he was again in favour with all. Sometimes it appeared to him that his `Dinis, Grl and Ktg, were more acceptable to the Genessee officers and crew than he was, but he encouraged them to continue teaching their language to any on board who wished it. At night, in his cabin, he could enjoy the consolation of his friends and they were very good at diverting him with amusing shipboard incidents and their own special companionship. When he was particularly upset, they would `dream' the tension away.

Since the squadron was on orders to hold a watching brief and to take no direct action against the ancient enemy which occupied the system, tedium became a problem. Even escape pod drills became a welcome variation of daily routine. So, when Captain Osullivan asked Rojer if he could `port the newly developed and undetectable probes to discover what they could about the moons' defences and the three spherical ships in docking orbit around the planet, he was quite willing to oblige.

The activity was one he was well able for: in fact, it gave him no lite satisfaction to know that `the boy/ civilian' had an ability no-one else in the B Squadron had. He was also just as curious as anyone else in the squadron to learn as much as possible about the Hivers world. He had discreet knowledge from Gil and Kat that Captain Prtglm of the KTTS would have preferred direct action to surveillance and had been extremely upset by the `surveillance' order from the High Council which had originated from Human Supreme Commander, Admiral Tohl Mekturian, and Mrdini Co-ordinator, Gktmglnt.

The squadron had been given a stunning display of the planet's defences when they had observed the attack on the refugee Hive ship which they had followed to this system. Their three ships would have been totally out-gunned and unable to inflict telling damage on planetary installations.

It was a different matter entirely to survey as much as possible of this enemy planet. Rojer enthusiastically entered into dispersing disguised monitors to the material clustering about the three sphere ships which were in a construction level orbit about the planet.

Certainly any ground-based sensors wouldn't notice him tucking a few more pieces' amid the clutter that spun in disarray round the world. Frankly Rojer thought such garbage was an appalling way to discard rubbish.

Neither Captain Quacho of the sister ship, the Arapahoe, or Captain Osullivan of the Genessee had expected that the refugee Hiver ship would be attacked by its own species, its queens driven to escape in the pods which had then been summarily disintegrated by the planetary batteries. Captain Prtglm had announced that it was no more than could be expected of Hivers.

Since Rojer's first assignment was to inspect the three sphere ships in their docking orbit, tensions were diffused further when the monitors proved that only one looked to be space-worthy. Quite possibly it had been the ship which had transported the original colonizing group. One of the other two was near completion, though it had significant gaps, probably left open to receive equipment, while the other was only partly hulled. That gave rise to further speculation as to why the planet's defenders had `holed' the refugee ship, rendering it unusable.

Somewhat reassured by that investigation which he had Rojer relay in his daily message to Earth Prime, Captain Osullivan requested Rojer to make a geographical survey of the eight land masses, the biggest one spreading from pole to pole. An opportunity like this, to gain first-hand knowledge of a Hiver world, should be utilized to the fullest extent possible. It also provided occupation during the tedium of a watching brieœ The Hive culture appeared to be totally land-based and every centimetre of land was cultivated. Rojer's guided sensors showed that mountainsides were terraced up to the snowline with what Commander Metrios, the engineering officer, considered amazing techniques, and although some fields were fallow, the majority sprouted with vigorous, if unrecognizable, flora. Narrow tracks bordering the fields provided access for the scurrying life-forms involved in agricultural occupations. Their constant presence made it dangerous to attempt to port in a sample-collecting probe. Another variety of beetlelike creatures specialized in irrigation, trundling water, held in body sacs, which was carefully dribbled along neat rows. What surprised Lieutenant Istvan Mrkovic, the science officer, who had made due note of the teeming marine life, was that the Hivers had not made any attempt to harvest nutritious seaweed and plankton so abundant and easily obtained.

`So they're vegetarians? Seaweed's vegetable, he exclaimed.

`They seem to be single-minded in many respects, said Anis Langio, the astrogation officer whom Rojer admired at a distance. She was the prettiest of the female bridge officers and he was old enough to appreciate her presence. `A stagnant culture determined to replicate itself ad infinitum.' `That may alter,' was the captain's crisp remark.

`I'd give anything to see a weed among all that perfection,' remarked Anis Langio in a tone bordering on disgust. `Talk about purpose bio-engineering. A purpose for every critter and a critter for every purpose.

Appalling. Specialization ad absurdum!' `Look at these,' Rojer said, focusing his sensor at its finest magnification where gatherers were stripping rows of a globular, green vegetable form. Finishing the collection, the gatherers turned from the rows into neat triple ranks and trundled towards a central installation into which they disappeared.

Thousands of these installations had been scanned.

They varied in size, evidently depending on the volume of crops, but not in shape; all being square buildings covering three to four acres, four or five storeys in height with interior access at ground level along each side. Rojer had whizzed a sensor close enough to see that the entrance sloped downwards. Activity continued night and day, for the creatures apparently did not require illumination for their tasks.

`And we thought this duty was boring,' one yeoman was heard to mumble, eliciting widespread grins and a mild reproof.

`Those buildings have to be the access to tremendous subterranean networks,' Istvan Mrkovic said thoughtfully. `There isn't enough space inside any of them to store the amounts brought in on a daily basis.

Do they pick for daily use, since I noticed they do leave immature vegetables on the vines and bushes, or just to process for storage?

Yet I can't pick up any trace of smoke or heat to account for cooking.

`Vegetarians eat a lot of raw foods,' Anis remarked.

`Or maybe they have a critter with heat-resistant paddles to stir the stew.

Istvan shot her a reproving look for such levity, though even the captain smiled. `Certainly we haven't seen anything coming back out for distribution so that has to be taken care of underground. Wow!

What an organization! You gotta give `em that.' `The workers have to be fed something at some point to continue at the pace they go,' Anis Langio said, no longer bantering. She had her head propped on one hand and, as she watched the screen, was idly twirling - a dart, springy curl around one finger. It seemed oddly out of character for someone of her rank and experience.

`You don't see any of them lying down on the job or expiring from lack of care.

`All mining must be done subterraneously, too, Mrkovic decided.

`I haven't seen anything remotely resembling an adit but those ships required a variety of metals. I've noted the presence of all the ores that we use but only that one finished ship in the construction orbit has been covered with their special coating. And if they have every centimetre producing food, the planet must be full up.

`The last harvest before blast-off;' Anis quipped.

`Not if they've only one space-worthy ship.' `Maybe the agricultural workers are multi-tasked and once the harvest's in they turn on their construction mode,' was Anis' rejoinder. Istvan gave her another of his disgusted looks.

`She could be right,' Metrios said. `The palp that pulls the pepper could also manipulate delicate equipment.

`And the trundlers shift struts and panels . . .` Anis went on.

`While the irrigators fill the fuel tanks,' Doplas, the communications officer, said, joining in the fun.

`That is when we must be most cautious,' the captain said, and turned to Rojer. `You can withdraw the monitors quickly?' Rojer nodded.

`Commander Yngocelen and I are still trying to include a small self-destruct unit, sir, just in case, Metrios said. `Small enough not to create much flare but enough to fiz the innards to an unrecognizable slag.' The captain nodded approval. `Our relief ships are not that far away.

Rojer held his breath in surprise. Would he actually be in on the first invasion of a Hive world? He had heard the gunnery officer, Lieutenant-Commander Yngocelen, and some of his staff discussing what would be needed to `take out' the moon batteries, but no-one had sounded very enthusiastic about success in that direction. Despite all they had seen of this Hive world, there were many unknowns.

From their Mrdini allies, and once at first hand on Deneb, humans did know something about Hive colonization practices. The creatures preferred G-type stars, M-5 type planets, worlds similar to Earth, or Cia the Mrdini home world, which meant that the three species were in competition with each other. The Hive method was to send one of their Sphere ships, managed by the Many Mind of ten to sixteen queens with specialized workers doing whatever crewing was needed. Each Mother ship was equipped with scout vessels which it sent on ahead to investigate appropriate systems. The Hiver then `cleared' the planet of all life-forms, using as a fumigator first one, then other viral infections until the world had been cleared of its indigenous life-forms. Then the Mother ship landed its queens and propagated its species until the new world, too, was overpopulated, when the process of exploration and colonization was repeated.

`But we've seen no activity at the ships at all,' Anis said. `Or has the arrival of the refugee caused panic `Hivers wouldn't know panic if it bit them Metrios interjected drolly.

`Well, then a rethink? 1 don't understand why they haven't done anything to repair the refugees' ship for use if they're about to send off a colonial expedition!' `They also haven't restocked their moon installations,' Yngocelen remarked. `They pumped out a bodacious amount of ordnance in that attack even if most of it fell short.

Surely they'd have to replenish it unless they have almighty storage facilities up there.' He glanced hopefully at Rojer who laughed.

`Sir, there's no way I can get a probe in those moon emplacements.

Not a niche or a crack and I've no idea of what space is available inside. I can't `port blind.' `No, no, of course, you couldn't, Rojer,' the gunnery officer replied, but his expression remained wistful.

`Been no messages sent there. No communication on any frequency, Doplas said, glancing down at his control console as if it had capriciously malfunctioned.

`Told ya the refugees didn't have the right password, quipped Metrios, a grin on his narrow sardonic face.

Then he suddenly sat up alert. `Lookee here. Activity in the shipyard.' All attention was instantly focused on that screen. `Can you hold that monitor stationary for a bit, Rojer?' `Sure thing,' and he complied, trying to see what had attracted Metrios' attention. A wide hatch had swung open at the end of the one uncultivated area on the whole planet - its space facility.

`Doplas, magni,' Captain Osullivan said and paused a beat before he added, `Pods! The units they're carrying look the right size and shape to be made into escape pods.' `To replace the ones they blew up!

Anis added unnecessarily and glanced anxiously at the captain.

His strong-featured face showed only keen interest in the surface activity as hundreds of low-slung manylegged creatures, loaded with sections, trundled slowly across the flat surface and deposited their burdens at sixteen separate places before they scuttled back to the aperture which sank back into the ground.

`Are the Arapahoe and the KTTS receiving these transmissions, Doplas?' `Aye, sir, on automatic relay.

Before the captain could ask Doplas to open a channel, both Captains Quacho of the Arapahoe and Prtglm of the KTTS called in.

`They begin to refit,' Prtglm said. `Time takes. Talent informs Alliance.

`They don't seem to be doing any work to complete the other two ships,' Quacho remarked dubiously, his heavy brows nearly bridging over his Roman nose.

`Those are already fitted with escape pods,' Osullivan reminded him.

`Always queens are first,' Prtglm said. `Time takes.' Rojer dutifully made contact with Jeff Raven to report the activity and was told to relay further developments as they occurred. Once the ground entrance closed, no further activity was seen. Excitement waned and Rojer was allowed to retire from the bridge at the end of his watch.

Rather than have to evade questions on this new development, he spent the evening quietly in his cabin with Gil and Kat, watching more of the Genessee's huge library of old tri-ds until the red alert had him `porting himself and his friends to the escape pod assigned him.

He and the others who occupied his pod were nearly asleep again when the `all-clear' hooted.

The next morning he overslept and had to `port himself to the bridge to be on time. Looking as grumpy as Rojer felt, Commander Metrios duly noted his hurried arrival but issued no reprimand.

Casually, Metrios told Rojer that no firther activity on the space field had been noted.

`Maybe they have to hatch out the assemblers?' Anis Langio suggested and then yawned, wiggling her fingers in welcome as Rojer stepped up to his couch. He grinned back at her.

`Any corrections needed, Commander?' Rojer asked Metrios, gesturing to the screens and the roving sensors.

`No, Roj,' Metrios said, with a wry grin. `They're where we need `em right now. We're just lucky there's so much space flotsam that our sensors seem just like one of the boys out there.

`You know, for a planet that's spotless, - said Eri Gander, the morale officer, who often dropped b,y Rojer's station, `they've made a right mess of space.

`Haven't developed a form to gobble up their garbage, that's all,' Metrios replied.

`Vegetarians get their iron and minerals from their food,' Anis remarked with an overly innocent expression on her face. `Which reminds me, Eri, we could use some new tri-ds. There's nothing I haven't seen a zillion times.

Eri and Anis both looked queryingly at Rojer who held his arms wide, mimicking Anis' expression. `Look, I'm just transport. I have nothing to do with loading.' `Which reminds me why I'm here,' Eri said, turning to Rojer. `I've four to ship back this week.' He raised his eyebrows queryingly.

`No problem. My `Dinis told me that there're two `Dini pairs to go as well.' Anis heaved an exaggerated sigh. `I'm always glad to know they are not as pa-faced and stiff-upperlipped as Prtglm pretends they are.

`The `Dinis are going to hibernate,' Rqj'er said, and grinned to defuse any criticism as he added, `that's not considered a weakness in `Dims.

`At least you save them from going on the line,' Metrios said, nodding his head approvingly.

Anis gave a convulsive shudder. `I don't care what euphemism they apply to the process, it's still cannibalism.' `Term it exigency during long space hauls and accept that interpretation,' Mrkovic said, but his expression indicated he was in complete agreement with the astrogator.

`At least we have Rojer here. Man and Mrdini's best friend is the local FT&T Talent.' Rojer grinned back, relieved that the subject of `Dini traditions was not pursued. On the bridge, at least, he wasn't quizzed to the point of aggravation by pruriently curious crewmen and women. He had had to make the point that he might have lived closely with `immature `Dini, but he didn't know much about the adults.

`So what's to be done today. Commander?' he asked Metrios.

`Close watch on the shipyard and those pod elements.

We've got a little self-destruct package in the new ones I ordered up in case we need to put more in action.' `Don't I just wish we did have some action,' said Yngocelen as he stared glumly at the static scene on the screen. `Aren't they putting the cart before the horse?

I mean, assembling escape pods when they haven't repaired the hole they put in the refugee ship? Never did understand why they plugged it. Especially after they had already conned the queens into leaving in their escape pods.' `Puzzling indeed, Metrios admitted, `since it damaged a perfectly space-worthy craft which would have nicely increased their existing fleet.' Because he now knew these officers well enough, Rojer decided to voice his thoughts.

`Commander, I don't think that torpedo hit a cargo or docking area,' he said.

`You don't?' Metrios' expression encouraged him.

`No, sir, I think they holed the life-support systems.

Because it was a hole, not a shattering blast.' `Show me.' Metrios was not the only one who perked up with interest.

Rojer `ported one of the monitors into the appropriate position.

Unfortunately, the entrance point was in deep shadow. What was visible were the clean edges of the torpedo's entrance. The damage would be easily repaired. At least it would on any of the Alliance ships.

`Maybe there was something in that torpedo they sent up,' Rojer added quietly, steeling himself for dispute.

`Yeah, but what and why?' Yngocelen asked in a caustic tone. `We know from even the partial reconstruction of the Great Sphere which A Squadron discovered that they can seal off decks and areas just as we can.

`Yes, but the queens were evacuating and there'd be no-one to issue orders to the workers to close anything.

I think,' and Rojer paused so as not to sound as sure as he was of his theory, `this lot wouldn't want the workers spawned by other queens. They'd want to get rid of them before they filled the ship with their personal workers.' `So the torpedo delivered a gas or something noxious to fumigate it, huh?' Yngocelen asked, mulling over that theory.

`Boy's got a good point,' Metrios said over Rojer's head but his tone was approving.

`I could send a probe inside the ship to find out, Rojer volunteered since no-one had discredited his theory. Although Captain Osullivan had not taken part in the conversation, he had been listening.

`Then do so, Mr Lyon,' Captain Osullivan said, nodding to Yngocelen. `And program it for a full scan, Mr Yngocelen. It's about time we learned what's going on in there since Mr Lyon's Talents allow us to be discreet.' Although Rojer sent the tiny probe through ventilation ducts and up and down dark and empty corridors, `nothing' was going on inside the hulk. Nothing apart from a haze which still hung like a miasma in the interior, and was especially heavy in the centre of the vessel.

`Could be a combination fg55, the science officer said, `because there sure aren't any workers of any description left, and there are signs of corrosion on the few organic substances the monitor identifies. The Hivers seem to specialize in lethal doses. I wouldn't want to send anyone in to investigate. Despite the hole in the hull letting vacuum in, the stuffs lingering. It's going to take time to flush all that out.' `Sections weren't closed off either,' Yngocelen said, tappinRojer approvingly on the shoulder. `Yup, and that junk even cleared out the tubes where larvae are stored. Clean sweep!' Rojer could not entirely suppress his delight that his theory had been verified but everyone was smiling so he felt it wasn't inappropriate for him to do so, too.

`Good thinking, Rojer,' Osullivan said to cap his moment of triumph.

None the less Rojer heard - not from the direction of the officers less grateful sentiments from one or two of the ratings on duty.

`It was only a theory, sir,' Rojer said, altering his grin to modest self-deprecation. It was hard to please everyone all the time no matter how carefully he conducted himself `How long will it take for that gas to clear, Mr Mrkovic?' Osullivan asked.

`Can't say for sure, sir, it's heavy stuff: All systems are dead on the ship. If they were activated - - -, and he shrugged. `With respect, sir, the Genessee doesn't have eva suits on board that would protect us humans against a corrosive gas atmosphere.' Nor did the Mrdini when the options were discussed at a captains' conference.

Although the derelict Great Sphere was being subjected to the most exhaustive scrutiny by both humans and Mrdini, the emphasis had been on establishing what powered Hive ships, what fuel was used, and analysing the peculiar composition of the hull material. Ventilation and life-support systems were a low priority.

`Captain Prtglin would like us to figure out a way to get in that ship,' Captain Osullivan reported to his staaf officers. Rojer was also itting in as he had attended the captains' meeting as translator.

`It has an idea,' and Osullivan's smile was amused, `of boarding and bringing a relatively undamaged Hive ship back to Clarf. I gather Prtglin is to be retired at the end of this mission and it would like to do so in glory, as it were.' There were murmurs of understanding for such ambition.

`I didn't think Mrdini did things like retire,' Anis Langio remarked.

Osullivan cleared his throat and smoothed back his hair. `I believe it's a question of size.' `Yeah, it is the biggest `Dini I've ever seen, Yngocelen sao thoughy. `If it gets much bigger, it won't fit in its own ship. It has to bend over to walk our companionways and this ship's built for tall.' As the gunnery officer was just under the two-metre mark, he was sympathetic. `But you know,' he went on offhandedly, `maybe Rojer could `port a small boarding party directly into the torpedo hole. They're obviously waiting until the gas disperses. Of course, we'd have to figure a way of doing that first.

`What do we know about the Hiver ventilation systems?' Osullivan asked rhetorically.

`No more than what the probe could see, sir,' Metrios replied.

`Any idea of where or what the controls would be?' Everyone turned in Rojer's direction.

`Me? I know as much as you do but `But what, Mr Lyon?' the captain prompted in an encouraging tone.

-`Well, sir; when I first came on board, I believe I mentioned that groups back on the home worlds are ùtrying to reassemble the innards of the Great Sphere?

We know what the main investigative team is working on - the fuel and engines - but maybe somebody else might have a clue to the life-support area. I could make a discreet enquiry.' `Of whom?' ù`The T-8 engineer at the Aurigae Tower.

Metrios looked considerably more receptive the moment Rojer mentioned `engineer' `Please contact him then. Discreetly, of course, Osullivan asked Rojer.

`Certainly, sir,' Rojer replied. He had determinedly not fallen into the habit of naval parlance of responding with the usual `aye, sir'. That was his subtle reaction to `boy' and `civilian' Metrios grinned. `Would you need much power?' `Not for a query, Rojer said, grinning back. Xexo would be as up to date as possible on what was being assembled, either by the naval or the `civilian' piece jiggers.

And he might even have some informed guesses. `Thing worries me, though, is that that explosion might also have taken out the ventilation control system.

`That's a distinct possibility. Sure wrecked the area,' Metrios said Rojer held up one hand, indicating he was initiating his query, but he sensed a definite eagerness in the atmosphere of the bridge.

Clearly Captain Prtglm was not the only one who wanted to secure a trophy out of this encounter. Of course, the Genessee and the Arnpahoe would share any honours with the KTTS.

Everyone in the Alliance would rejoice to have purloined a nearly operational ship from a Hive colony.

He suppressed the chuckle that threatened to overset his composure and sternly focused his mind on the gestalt to send the message.

Familiarity with Xexo's mind made the `pathing easier. Rojer elected to make it an informal query because nothing might come of it and there was no point in getting hopes up only to dash them down.

Xexo was surprised to hear Rojer.

Come through loud and clear, lad. But shouldn't you No, this is between you and me, Xexo, about our piecing.

They don't have a set on board here and I need your help on one aspect of the reconstruction.

Oh, well, in that case Xexo had always been more interested in the mechanical aspects of Tower than protocol so he made no further objections. whaddya need to know?

What Xexo knew about the ventilation and lifesupport systems was incomplete. In fact, Rojer realized that his probe had accumulated more cogent information which he then shared with the T-8. Xexo could then confirm that the main environmental control systems had probably been demolished by the torpedo.

Queens seem to have had an independent emergency supply.

Get that started and you m(ght flush a lot of the gas out, `specially with a hole already in the hull. Hey, you guys bring that ship back and you will be real heroes! Xexo added, excitement colouring his usual imperturbable manner.

Too much of the ship Squadron A salvaged has been damaged beyond guess or gosh. Then Xexo `showed' Rojer what diagrams existed, incomplete as they were.

`Since the queens abandoned ship,' Metrios said when he had a chance to study what Rojer transferred to the screen, `that area would not have been secured.

But it appears,' and his finger wandered off the diagram, `that one could flush the system of the gas quite efficiently from the main circulation point.

`If we knew how to work such controls,' Rojer said.

"Dinis keep telling us that the queens developed specific workers for various ship operations. What would a life-support worker look like?' Metrios shmgged. `That'd be a problem. They seem to produce all kinds of workers.

The other officers on duty on the bridge had been following the conversations.

`The `Dini records have reconstructions of some definite types, from corpses that were found after space battles,' Anis Langio said and keyed in a program. They all watched as the sketches were accessed.

Langio gave a snort. `Take your pick.' `That queen they've got at Heinlein Moon Base?

Have her eggs hatched yet?' Metrios asked.

`They're growing and she's eating,' Rojer replied with a shrug.

He was still in two minds about his sister Zara's interference, even if it had saved the queen from hypothermia.

One of the three pods to escape the Great Sphere had contained a live and egg-heavy queen. Conveying the pod to the Heinlein Moon Base had been Rojer Lyon's first official duty as a Prime, though his father had been the focus of the kinetic energy of that teleportation. An observation module had kept close track of her activities since she had emerged. She was, in fact, the first living specimen of the Hive race that either human or Mrdini had seen. Her continued existence had elicited controversy and, sometimes, strain among the Allies.

Fortunately some of the more liberal Mrdini leaders also felt that the need to know more about their enemy was of greater importance than a very public and summary execution, no matter how psychologically satisfying. Others found some beauty in her mantis-like appearance: the maudlin were deeply concerned about her total isolation and incarceration.

`I'd heard that each queen lays several different types of workers,' Anis Langio said. `Maybe she'd been programmed for the type we need right now.' She turned an impudent gamine grin on her audience.

`If we knew what sort we needed,' Metrios said, gloomily. He leaned forward across his panel. `If we could somehow clear enough of the gas to put a salvage crew aboard `Ah, we're much too far away to use tractor beams . . .` Yngocelen said and then turned brightly to Rojer.

`Hey, don't look at me. That's mass, Commander,' Rojer said, fending off that suggestion with raised hands.

`It'd take a whole Tower crew to shift that one.' `Then it'd've to be a landing party - `With Hiver ground batteries trained on it?' Yngocelen asked sarcastically. `They'd blast it out of the sky once they saw it moving away rather than let us have it.' `But they don't know we're here, Langio reminded them.

`And they're not supposed to, - Metrios said, heaving a sigh.

`Rojer, you couldn't just inch it out of their surface to-air missile range?' Langio asked plaintively.

`No, I couldn't. Not even to give Captain Prtglm its moment of glory.' `Now wait a minute,' Metrios said, and turning to his console accessed another program. `To get the Great Sphere back, two Galaxy-class ships acted as tows, and a shuttle was attached to control directional thrusters `So?' Yngocelen asked.

`If we could mount thrusters on the hull - . -` `That would mean we'd be seen from the surface Yngocelen interjected. `Oh . ` he added and turned, as Metrios had, to Rojer.

Rojer shook his head. `Look, sirs,' and he paused to give the courtesy address emphasis, `I'm glad to oblige with a lot of things but if anyone - - anything - .

down there is monitoring space - and they sure knew when the refligee ship arrived - thrusters big enough to move it out of orbit would be very very visible, even if putting them there wasn't.' `What do we know about Hiver eyesight?' `They probably have a specialist for that, too,' Anis remarked in a caustic tone.

`Possibly,' Metrios agreed and then went on, `but why would they be watching a ship they know is disabled and uninhabited?' Clearly, he wanted to defend his strategy. `They don't know we're here. They certainly wouldn't expect anyone to come robbing them of a ship.

Surprise is a big plus `Our orders, gentlemen,' and Captain Osullivan reminded them in droll reprimand, `are to hold a watching brief.' Then he gave them a wistful smile. `The Council has not given us any latitude. We are especially not to engage the enemy at this point in time.' He heard their murmurs of discontent and disappointment. `If we can follow their ion trails, they can follow ours.' `True enough, sir, but they don't have another operational vehicle,' Metrios pointed out.

`We have our orders, gentlemen, and we will obey them,' Osullivan said and strode to his command chair where he remained for the rest of that watch.

It was the next morning that the captain asked Rojer to report to the bridge before his usual watch.

`It occurred to me, Rojer,' Osullivan said at his most relaxed and genial, `that we shouldn't miss a golden opportunity.' `Which one, sir?' Rojer asked dubiously, glancing at Metrios, Doplas and Yngocelen who were ranged behind the captain.

Osullivan grinned as did the others. `Only that one area of this vessel is destroyed? Right?' When Rojer nodded, the captain went on, `You seemed to have no difficulty `porting that monitor around the interior.' `It was a small one, with a limited detection capacity Oh, I see At Rojer's sudden comprehension, Osullivan turned to the other officers. `He catches on real quick. Good lad. If we can present coherent diagrams of every level of this ship, the crews restoring the Great Sphere will have a template to work from. Captain Prtglm informed me that the design has not altered in all the centuries they've been dealing with the Hivers.' `Except for the size of the Great Sphere - - - Metrios interposed.

`Would you oblige?' Osullivan said, gesturing at Rojer's couch and grinning with invitation.

`I don't see why not, sir. I've been everywhere else I could `port a device. But what about the corrosive gas `You can use as many as you need,' Metrios said expansively. `When the captain made his suggestion, we found a coating that will somewhat retard corrosion.

I think! I hope. First one you have to bring back, we'll run an analysis on and see if we can't identi the combo used.

`I've altered the visual schematics, Doplas said eagerly, `so that we can get dimensional read-out and identify any gross design alterations.' Rojer found the process more time-consuming than tiring but he was very glad when that watch was over.

Five probes had been affected by the gas and he had deposited them in a gas-proof container in the ship's lab. While it was not as large as the Great Sphere, his first day's investigations had delineated only a very small segment of the total ship. But there was enough to cause every science and specialist officer on all three ships to spend the rest of the day analysing and rendering drawings. The gas had done its work thoroughly: only such stores as had been encased in metal survived.

As Rojer `ported the probes further inboard, printouts became blurred where the gas was thick. There came a point of no input.

Sufficient had been gathered to give the squadron some idea of the interior layout of the vessel: someone called it a `spaghetti-macaroni network of tubes, tunnels and conduits'. There were features in the ceilings and along the floors of the queens' quarters which gave rise to considerable speculation. Was each of the queens responsible for one aspect of the ship's operations? Or were the controls mutual?

`The Rowan said she met a "Many Mind",' Rojer said, trying to sound impartial while reporting his grandmother's action, `a nexus of the queens which is what she immobilized when she was focus for her merge.

`So it's likely the queens moved in concert?' asked Osullivan.

`That's consonant with the hive mentality: all working for the same objective,' the xeno officer replied.

Lieutenant Sedim Mehmet had been asked to sit in on a primarily engineering conference.

`Those control panels are undamaged,' Metrios said, switching the screen to that set of printout. `But I'd need a ladder to reach `em and which would control what!' `Don't seem to be any touch-type arrangement, Yngocelen remarked. `But perhaps when back-lit we'd identi controls.' `The queens' palps are odd-shaped,' Mehmet reminded them. `Palps end in different-sized triangular joints.' `The p,' Osullivan said, `is not so much the shape as the function.

On that they were all agreed. Captain Prtglm seemed to sink deeper onto its stool, spreading its bulk noticeably. Rojer thought it was depressed by this current impasse. Gil and Kat said their Great Captain had already achieved many battle honours but it wanted one more significant honour to add to a career that had spanned over a hundred human-length years. Rojer could sympathize with that wish, knowing that Prtglm's colour would bask in glory for centuries more if it could bring back to Clarf an empty Hive ship.

Rojer and some of the lesser staff members were politely thanked and dismissed from the conference.

Since it was likely he'd be called to send back a report at the conclusion of the meeting, Rojer took the opportunity to grab something to eat. The sort of mental work he did made him ravenous. Rather than appear to eat more than was considered polite on ship, Rojer often secreted food in his cabin for emergencies. He always had something for Gil and Kat, too, and so they were indulging in an illicit feast when his comunit clicked on.

`Require Talent assistance return,' said Prtglm's unmistakable tones. `Talent to return, too.' WE COME, Too?' Gil asked and Kat was hanging on Rojer's response.

RJR SEES NO REASON NOT. PkTGLM NEVER NOTICES YOU ANYHOW. While Rojer knew Pkgtglni was a Great One, he had been slightly peeved that it was too great a personage to notice his dear friends. He took Gil and Kat across to the KTTS whenever possible because they did enjoy visiting among their own kind.

`WE USE BIGGEST CARRIER ANYWAY. YOU HIDE IN DARK.

Knowing it would take the `Dini captain time to make its ponderous way from the bridge area to the transfer pod in the cargo bay, Rojer stripped out of his rumpled shipsuit and donned a clean one, buckling on the formal belt and pouch he rarely bothered to wear.

He was in awe of Great Captain Prtglm and a `uniformed' appearance bolstered his morale.

Gil and Kat were so excited they squirmed in his arms as he gathered them up for the `port. Actually, he landed neatly right at the hatch to the cargo bay, and in an empty corridor. He could, however, feel the vibration in the deck plates of a heavy' tread.

`QUICK, YOU TWO,' he urged, adding body language to his words, opening the hatch and thrusting the two warm furry bodies ahead of him.

`THE GREAT ONE COMES. FEEL HIM?' His two friends scurried to the large pod that would be used. They opened it and were disappearing inside as Rojer explained to the deck officer that he'd be taking the captain back to the KTTS.

`You sure know when that biggie's coming, doncha,' Ensign Menburia said as the vibration through the deck plates was even more discernible. `No disrespect intended, but it can barely get through that hatch.

Oops!' And the ensign ducked back to her engineering board as the massive figure of Prtglm appeared.

The captain required time to settle itself in the pod while the cargo bay crew appeared extremely busy at their stations. Finally, Rojer could enter.

`Is power up, ensign?' Rojer called and received a thumbs up from Menburia. He closed the hatch and tried to compress himself so as not to touch the captain.

A Great One did not appreciate tactile contact.

Rojer picked up the pulse of generators he was now as familiar with as Xexo's at Aurigae Tower. He knew where he was going and `ported them on board the KTTS so lightly he was sure that Prtglm wasn't even aware the transfer had taken place until the hatch was opened by one of its own officers, and it was officially welcomed back on board. Prtglm rattled several phrases off so quickly that Rojer didn't follow the sense of them.

Something about `new probes' and `decision' COME,' Prtglm said curtly to Rojer as soon as it had its back legs on the deck. Rojer scrambled out to see Prtglm making its way to an opening that led to the interior of the `Dini ship, not to the bridge as Rojer had expected.

It was as well Prtglm made its way without a backward glace for Gil and Kat suddenly clung on to Rojer's hands.

WHAT'S WRONG?' he asked but each made the sudden quick head movement that told him to keep quiet. He could feel their digits trembling despite the strength with which they held on to him.

They were alone as they followed Prtglm down the corridor which was just wide enough to accommodate the massive body of the captain.

Then a hatch slid back and Prtglm entered, pausing to gesture to them to hurry.

Rojer obeyed despite the fact that both Gil and Kat seemed to impede his forward progress.

WHAT'S WRONG?' he muttered, bending down to their ear holes.

Kat managed a quavery noise and, taking a breath as if steeling itseW stepped over the hatch and into the big hangar facility. Rojer and Gil followed. Rojer knew his dear friends were awed by any proximity t& Prtglm, but there was some new quality in their manner now that began to infect him with doubt and anxiety.

The hangar was dark, but Rojer could make out racks of long, slim shapes that had a metallic shine: many of them. Light came up and Rojer blinked to adjust to the glare. Gil and Kat audibly moaned.

These were not probes, Rojer instantly noted: they had a precision of line that made their purpose unmistakable even before his horrified stare took in the deadly bulb of a warhead on the pointed end. And there were an awful lot of them.

Prtglm's digits flashed over a terminal and the multiple screens above it flicked on, each with a different view.

Three depicted the orbiting sphere ships, another the flat surface of the space field, and the rest were split, sometimes in three separate scenes, showing the largest of the square buildings his probes had found.

The sick feeling in Rojer's guts developed rapidly into a certainty that was no precog. If he had not been so immobilized by fear and shock, he would have `ported himself and his friends out of the hangar. But he couldn't move. He couldn't believe that Prtglm would make such a devastating unilateral decision. Somehow he had to stop it from happening.

TALENT!' Prtgim turned and it had never appeared so massive or forbidding in aspect.

`GREAT ONE,' Rojer managed to say before he had to swallow convulsively to wet his dry mouth and throat.

YOU SEND MANY THINGS TO WORLD BELOW. YOU SEND THESE. TO THESE PLACES! THEN SQUADRON TAKES SPHERE AND RETURNS WITH TRUE HONOUR.

`Sir, these are bombs?' Rojer forgot all `Dini.

OF COURSE, and the captain's body made the massive surge from bottom to top that was an angry reaction to the question: indeed to any questioning.

`I am not permitted to destroy, sir.' Rojer concentrated on speaking clearly and firmly.

YOU `PORT MANY THINGS. BOMBS ARE BEST!

Most `Dini voices expressed little emotion but Prtglm's intonations were rich with satisfaction and righteous vengeance.

I AM NOT PERMITTED TO DESTROY, SIR. MY ORDERS ARE STRICT.' Rojer fell back into `Dini, hoping he could make his point better in that language.

YOUR ORDERS ARE TO WATCH, NOT DESTROY ORDERS WHICH CAME FROM COORDINATOR GKTMGLNT, ADMIRAL TOHL MEK- TURIAN. THIS LOW PERSON CANNOT DISOBEY ORDERS.' LOW PERSON RJR OBEYS THE ORDER OF PRTGLM NOW! OBEY.' Prtglm began to pulse and expand, a frightening aspect that rooted Rojer to the deck but did not alter his determination to disobey.

`I am not permitted, Great One, he repeated, dropping to one knee in an attitude of respectful subGREAT ONE PRTGLM, RJR IS FORBIDDEN BY HUMAN GREAT ONES TO DESTROY anything,' Gil said, inching forward with the greatest respect it could display.

THE HUMAN IS TO OBEY OR HUMAN WILL BE ON THE LINE.

Rojer could not believe what he heard.

I CANNOT OBEY CAPTAIN PRTGLM!' Fury engorged the captain now and, in a movement so swift Rojer could have done nothing to intervene, Prtglm's top arms descended on Gil's poll eye and smashed its immature body to the deck.

`OBEY!' roared Prtglm and, lifting its great gory forearms, began the downward swing that would have also killed Rojer.

``PORT,' Kat cried, shoving Rojer to one side and taking the blow meant for him which crumbled it beside the mangled body of Gil.

`Port Rojer did, out of the KTTS, and to the one place automatic reflexes could take him without conscious thought!

`Where the hell could he get to?' Captain Osullivan said, scowling with annoyance. `He knows the time he's due here for the daily report.' `Sir?' Doplas said from his com station, `Ensign Menburia says that Rojer `ported Captain Prtglm back to the KTTS at 1130. She logged that and saw them depart.' `Porting doesn't take Rojer more than thirty seconds. Where'd he go then? Did the ensign see?' `Sir, the log says that Rojer accompanied the captain.

At its request evidently. He had his `Dinis with him.

`So?' `Com officer of the KTTS says that neither the human Rojer nor his `Dinis are on board.' `Is there a record of when Rojer `ported back here?' `According to their records, the captain's pod is still in place and the human Rojer has not approached anyone on the KTTS. The big pod did not return here.

`Aw, now wait a bleeding minute - -` Metrios began in total disgust. `If the pod is over there, on the KTTS, Rojer has to be there. Talents don't generally `port themselves about in a space vacuum. Dangerous. And what's he been doing there for over eight hours anyway.

`I should very much like to know,' the captain said in a tight, controlled voice.

`This isn't like Rojer,' Anis Langio said.

`Darrimit, Anis, I know that,' Osullivan said, shifting about in his command chair, his face grim. `Metrios, any power use consistent with a long-distance `port?' `No, sir,' the engineering officer said with only the briefest of glances at his station printout. `And there's no way Rojer could `port all the way back to Aurigae or even Clarf which is spatially nearer.

Osullivan stared grimly at the digital time display as the seconds and hundreds turned over rapidly. His fingers rattled an agitated tattoo on his hand rest.

`Sound a yellow alert. Ship's crew to locate Mr Lyon.

This ship is to be searched stem to stern. Alert Captain Quacho.

Doplas, I want to speak to Captain Prtglm.' `It hasn't been available, sir,' Doplas said in a semiapologetic tone.

`It'll be available to me, Doplas!' Osullivan's icy tone made Doplas' fingers skip over the touch-plates.

`Prtglm is not available for speech,' the `Dini com officer said.

`PRTGLM IS NOT AVAILABLE,' it repeated in its own language to be sure the information was understood.

`We search for Rojer y,) Doplas said.

`RJR LN REPORT IMMEDIATELY TO THIS SHIP, Osullivan added to be sure the `Dini officer also understood.

This time the `Dini officer shook its upper body and then directed its poll eye fully at the screen. `NO HUMAN ON THE KTTS.' The screen went blank.

`What's all this about young Lyon disappearing?' demanded Captain Quacho, his image illuminating the main screen. `We've supplies to come in and I've two crew needing to go back on the carrier. I've been waiting for Rojer's signal to bring them over.

`A full ship search is under way, Quacho. I understand Lyon's disappearance no better than you do. And he's not on the `Dini ship!' Osullivan grimaced and he rubbed his jaw. If the boy had gone to the `Dini ship, why hadn't he come back aboard the Genessee?

`Sir?' An excited voice immediately captured his attention. `Sir, one of the escape pods is gone.' `Which?' Osullivan snapped the query out in such a hard voice that even Doplas recoiled.

`One oh eight, starboard, sir. And the controls were altered to make it appear to be still in place.' No-one on the bridge needed to remark that the one-oh-eight pod was the one assigned to Rojer Lyon.

`Has there been any activity towards the planet?' Osullivan demanded. When he received a negative reply, `Or towards that damned empty hull?' `No, sir. And I'm scanning for a recent ion trail.' `The boy wouldn't have had to use the escape pod engine, Metrios,' Osullivan said, puzzled, angry and half-despairing. He had grown quite fond of young Lyon. The boy had conducted himself extremely well and been as helpful as he could, way beyond the scope of his original assignment.

`Something happened while he was on board the KTTS,' Metrios said in a quiet, intense tone of voice.

`His `Dinis went with him?' Osullivan knew that they had but he grasped at that one possibility of finding out what happened.

`Yes, sir, Ensign Menburia now reports that they slipped on board the probe before Prtglm or Lyon did.' `They often went with him,' Anis said softly.

Osullivan waved his hand to cut off discussion. The boy had used an escape pod after a trip to the KTTS in Prtglm's company. The `Dini was determined to return home in honour. Suddenly, Osullivan jumped to a conclusion he did not like, not any aspect of it and not for any reason.

`Let us hope he can reach his family safely.' Everyone on the bridge turned to stare at their captain and then began to exchange shocked glances. Metrios propped his head in his hands and stared down at the lights running their normal patterns on his board. Just then, they gave him little consolation.

Captain Osullivan, this is Jeff Raven. why is my grandson not in touch with us?

captain Osullivan had been expecting some form of contact from the FT&T Prime ever since the time for the usual daily call had passed, and still more seconds ticked by.

`Earth Prime, he is no longer on board the Genessee.

We had hopes that he has made his way back to you, or his home world.' Osullivan spoke aloud so that the bridge crew would understand that he was communicating with the Prime.

Surely you realize, Captain, that Rojer is not able to make such a long-distance `portation without assistance. what has happened to my grandson?

`We do not know, sir, and we are extremely worried.' The captain then detailed the known sequence of events leading up to the discovery of the missing escape pod.

Then he cleared his throat. `Prime Raven, it is my bdief, unsupported though it is, that Captain Prtglm may know either where Rojer is or why he left so abruptly. But the captain is unavailable.

I request formal permission from Gktmglnt to board the KTTS and investigate.

That will be unnecessary, Captain, though the ojoffer is certainly appreciated. I am informing the Htg'h Council of Prime Lyon's disappearance. You may expect assistance shortly. Have the courtesy to await it.

`Of course, Prime Raven.' Captain Osullivan inclined his head in obedience to that directive and then sighed.

Ask your medic for an analgesic, Captain. A direct send to a non-empath u'ill produce an intense headache.

Raven's advice was kindly, and something unknotted in Osullivan's midriff `Someone's coming,' he added, remembering no-one else on the bridge had heard the message.

`Soon?' asked Anis, her pretty face flushed with concern.

`Can't be soon enough,' Metrios said in a growl.

`Aye!' The single word of accord came from many directions around the bridge.

The sound reverberated with acutely felt echoes and Osullivan retired briefly to his ready room to find a pain killer before his brain burst through his skull.

Precisely three-quarters of a very long hour passed before a glad message was relayed from the cargo deck.

`Passenger pod aboard, sir.' `Escort the passenger to the bridge immediately, Mr Menburia.' `No need, Captain, said a curt feminine voice and the Rowan, a large dark-grey `Dini beside her, and Afra Lyon, with a smaller `Dini pair flanking him, appeared on the bridge upper level.

Osullivan shot to his feet and was halfivay to the Rowan when she held up her hand to restrain his impulse. Once again he felt a mental touch and almost recoiled from a second experience.

`Sorry, Captain,' the Rowan said with a fleeting smile. The pain went as quickly as it had begun. `It was the quickest way for me.

`We apologize for taking so long getting here,' Afra went on. `We stopped at appropriate intervals to listen.

`Ohhhh,' and Osullivan breathed one single despairing note of denial.

`My grandson is alive,' the Rowan added, her expression severe.

Afra nodded a brief reinforcement of her statement. `We would know if he was not, if that affords you any consolation.' `It does.' `We must go aboard the KTTS. Do you have any pictures of its bridge configuration?' Afra asked.

`Here,' Doplas said, pointing to his screen.

`That's enough,' the Rowan said and turned towards the engineering position. `You are Commander Metrios? I thought so. We will need a touch of power.' `All you want,' Metrios said, throwing his hands up in exaggerated relief at being able to do something.

Their air of competenceee and determination revived him from the despair which had engulfed him since Rojer's disappearance became known.

The generators surged briefly and the group were gone. Someone breathed a `wow!' of awe.

`The Rowan?' Yngocelen asked in a low voice.

Osullivan nodded.

`I thought she `never left Callisto.' `Not often, but she's the clout needed,' Osullivan said, encouraged in spite of his pessimistic fears.

`Sir?' Ensign Menburia's voice sounded almost apologetic. `They brought the supplies, too `That boy must be found, safe and unharmed!' Osullivan said, bringing both fists down hard on the arm rests. He had personal as well as professional reasons, and a few which would have repercussions that he didn't want to think about, even clear-headed.

`Aye, aye, sir!' The Rowan had been angry before with the stupidity of people, or things, or avoidable accidents, but she had never been so frighteningly angry before. Even as Jeff had been receiving information from the Genessee, he had Gollee Gren contacting the Mrdini High Council representative stationed on Earth. Mrtgrts was not only a grey, Captain Prtglm's colour, but it was the High Councillor's chief liaison official and had served two decades as manager of the `Dini colony world, Sef.

It immediately volunteered to accompany whomever the Earth Prime sent to investigate.

The Rowan had informed Earth Prime that none other than herself would be the FT&T representative, having forcibly overruled her daughter who felt she had the right to discover what had happened to her own son. Aungac may not be without its Prime, Damia, and that's that. But the Rowan had then relented sufficiently to ask Afra to accompany her. You can manage without Afra and lie is the boy's father. But Aungac can't manage without you.

Then how is it that Callisto can do without its Prime?

Damia had demanded caustically. He's my son!

And my grandson and I carry more clout. Ca llis to 5 in occlusion or we'd've had to sendjeran.

I'd rather you went, Damia said, subsiding.

We will find Rqier, dear girl. We will. You know lie's alive.

Yes, I know he's alive and Damia's tone dwindled off while leaving her mother with the full fmpact of her shock and despair.

Now `port your husband and your `Dinis. We'll need them almost as much as we'll need me.

The Rowan had almost baulked at waiting for the cluster of supply pods destined for Squadron B but the handlers at Callisto had the pods attached with such alacrity that she didn't have time enough to voice an objection.

I'd hazard that the supplies are needed for the morale value if nothing else, Jeff said soothingly. Rojer seems to have been very well liked and Captain Osullivan is genuinely and deeply upset by his disappearance.

And so he should be. A good lad. Not too cocky either.

The Rowan did not, however, wait until the encircling pods were removed by the Genessee cargo handlers but `ported herself and her companions directly to the bridge. She heard Captain Osullivan's apologies and a reiteration of the circumstances. Then she and Afra `ported with their `Dinis to the KTTS where they were met by the next in command, another grey `Dini of good size but one who instantly made deep obeisance to Mrtgrts.

THE PRESENCE OF PRTGLM IS REQUIRED,' Mrtgrts said, its tone coming from deep inside its strong large body.

The poll eye of every `Dini on the bridge was turned respectfully in its direction.

I, PRIME OF CALLISTO, REQUIRE THE PRESENCE OF PRTGLM NOW!' the Rowan said, drawing herself up to her full height. Despite being dwarfed by almost all the `Dini bridge staff, she was so imperious in manner that she received equal respect and attention.

I, FR, SIRE OF RJR LN, REQUIRE THE PRESENCE OF PRTGLM,' Afra said and he towered above everyone.

Though he knew the `Dini were not empathic, he allowed himself the luxury of radiating the anger and indignation that consumed him despite all his attempts to suppress such un-methody emotions.

Trp and Flk, the `Dinis who had lived with Damia and Afra for the past eighteen years, suddenly began to swell.

WE KNOW. WE GO,' said Trp, and with no further explanation it and Flk ran, as nearly as their body shapes allowed them, to a bridge exit and disappeared. That precipitous departure caused some of the lower crew members to moan and prostrate themselves.

Mrtgrts took charge, flicking one set of digits in a warning to the two humans. The Rowan bridled, incensed to be ignored.

Don't, Rowan. Let Mrtgrts handle this. I've never seen such behaviour from `Dinis before and we must be patient Patient? when we don't know We know that Rojer lives. if we can find out what caused him to run like that A Gwyn-Raven doesn't run, the Rowan began, her mental tone a vivid purple-red she was so incensed.

`There has been a command failure,' Mrtgrts told them suddenly and now it, too, made a humble inclination of its upper body to the Talents.

`A what?' `Prtglm has attempted unilateral action that would not be approved by Admiral Mktrn or Gktmglnt.' Mrtgrts bowed again, its colour paling to exhibit a degree of embarrassment that Afra had seen only in very young `Dini miscreants.

`What sort of action?' the Rowan demanded imperiously.

`The Talent offspring of Afra Lyon became so deft at sending unseen probes that Prtglin saw the opportunity to destroy the flinction of this world for ever.

Damn! The word exploded with ferocity in the Rowan's livid mind and included the actions which she desired to inflict on Prtglm's person.

`How dared it!' Afra's fliry matched the Rowan's and Mrtgrts swayed back from them as if it felt the impact as a personal blow.

`That was not the assignment my son accepted and that I, as his parent, approved, Mrtgrts. I do not know what punishment can be meted out to a personage of Prtglm's rank and colour but this is an unacceptable perversion of FT&T services and a gross affront to the pacific nature of FT&T personnel.' `All FT&T services will be withdrawn from the Rowan began, suddenly white and trembling with reaction.

Flk and Trp returned, their pelts almost colourless.

THERE ARE MANY PUNITIVE MISSILES IN THE CARGO BAY. GRL AND KTG DIED ON THE LINE.

The Rowan's face mirrored the horror both she and Afra felt.

No wonder Rojer disappeared, she said in the saddest tone Afra had ever heard from her in all their long association. She swayed and he stepped close to support her.

`ESCORT ME, Mrtgrts told the bridge officer who had met them. Its whole body shuddering, it turned to another of the exits from the bridge facility, Flk and Trp falling in behind him.

The Rowan made a move to follow but Afra restrained her and eased her on to the nearest stool before her knees buckled. Keeping one hand lightly under her arm to comfort her, Afra blanked out the flood of emotions she continued to broadcast. Far better for all if she dispersed as much of her feelings as possible where it could not be felt or heard before Mrtgrts returned.

why would Rojer's `Dinis be killed, Afra? why? They were young, blameless.

Rojer would have refused outright to `port weapons of any kind, Afra said wearily for he now had a sense of what had probably taken place. He oughtn't really to have sent probes either, but certainly the knowledge that has been amassed is more than worth that shg'ht deviation from his orders. But - Afra shook his head.

We started these operations to clear the stars of Hive incursions, didn't we? the Rowan began and Afra was relieved by the healthier indignation of her mind.

It was also mutually decided by the Alliance not to promulgate any attack against an entrenched Hiver position because we bloody well couldn't succeed.

The least that should be done is blow up those ships so this group will be planet-bound for a long time to come, and her eyes flashed with determination to wrest that much of a concession from those who preferred non-aggression.

We'll never be able to communicate with that species. I certainly don't want to have to meet any mind of theirs again, single or many!

Afra certainly understood her hostility and resentment of the species but he had been raised on a methody planet which did not approve of violence of any kind, even in self-defence. `There are always alternatives: keep talking' had been the guiding rule about confrontations that might lead to force and bloodshed.

Until we can find the weaknesses of this species, we cannot arrive at a solution which will produce success without needless waste of life, he said as gently and persuasively as possible.

He didn't wish to aggravate the Rowan, and he knew her sentiments in depth, but he also had the right to his opinions and the right to express them.

Even when Rojer has been the first casualty of such an attitude?

The Rowan's grey eyes flashed at him and she shifted herself away from his gentle support.

He sighed but he expected nothing else.

A door whooshed open and Mrtgrts stood there a moment, its poll eye aimed directly at the two human Talents. As it stepped onto the bridge, Flk and Trp followed.

PRTGLM EXCEEDED ORDER AND OBEDIENCE. A CARRIER IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. IT MUST BE TRANSPORTED TO CLaRF IF SUCH A TASK CAN BE REQUESTED OF TALENTS, KNOWING THAT A YOUNG OF YOURS HAS BEEN BASELY ABUSED. THERE WILL BE NO GOOD GREY DREAMS.

The Rowan gave a little shiver. I'd like to consign Prtglm to this primary, not to Cia That would be sparing Prtglm the ultimate humiliation, Rowan, Afra pointed out. I can send a carrier that far if you would rather not deal with the send.

Oh, and her eyes blazed at him, in that case I myself will bump him back to Clarf arid half bury the capsule Afra signalled her to wait as he turned to Flk and Trp. `WHAT HAPPENED TO GRL AND KTG AND WHY?' THEY PRESUMED TO INTERFERE WITH PRTGLM'S ORDERS TO RJR. PRTGLM PUNISHED SUCH PRESUMPTION' The Rowan hid her eyes for a moment and a sob racked her. Afra sent the gentlest soothing thought he could, though his heart pounded bitterly at the sacrifice, at the terrible shock such a loss would have dealt his son. Rojer was no older, in either `Dini or human terms, than the two who had tried to help him.

Afra could and did allow himself a brief surge of pride in a boy who would not be coerced into doing something against training and conscience.

THEY,' Flk continued, drawing itself up straight, `DO HONOUR TO THEIR COLOUR AND THAT OF YOUR DWELLING.' THEY HONOURED MY SON MORE,' Afra said though his voice cracked uncertainly. He bowed his head and let his tears flow. The `Dinis didn't understand weeping but he scarcely cared at that moment what their reaction would be.

`Put your erring person in the carrier, the Rowan said in a steely voice. `Which station handles power generation?' Every `Dini pointed and she moved to that station, its attendant stepping respectfully back.

`Who is to be informed of the reasons for Prtglm's cnme and return?' the Rowan asked Mrtgrts.

The big `Dini inclined its body to the Rowan. `This one will inform Gktmglnt personally of this terrible misconduct of Prtglin who now submits to retribution.

Details will be forwarded to you.

The Rowan responded to that with a curt nod of her head. Gktmglnt was one of the high-placed `Dinis who accepted human reasoning and logic in the Alliance campaign to restrict Hiver incursions. A pall of tense silence was maintained until it was announced that the carrier had been loaded and was ready for transfer.

Afra followed the Rowan's thrust. She did not quite plough the capsule into the concrete of the Clarf landing field. She gave the Clarf Tower Prime, her granddaughter Laria, quite a shock to feel a carrier being brought in so precipitously.

Mother, I just had the most extraordinary orders not to touch that personnel pod. There's a crew swarming over it, painting some kind of message I can't understand. Is there someone or something inside?

Vie sun's boiling here today.

Anything enclosed like that will bake in its own juices.

Then follow your orders, Laria, the Rowan said. The creature in the carrier killed your brother's `Dinis As Calisto Prime I speak to Clarf Prime, the Rowan went on in a flat voice.

As Clair Prime, I listen, Laria said, though her grandmother could sense the quickly suppressed quaver of uncertainty in the mental message as she expressed the formula of total discretion now required.

Briefly the Rowan related what had happened. She caught a brief flare of Laria's regret that the Hivers had not been bombed.

Clair Prime, such an action would have been totally beyond the parameters of your brother `s position. He has acted properly, and bravely. Had he complied, lie could never have been allowed to run a Tower.

Yes, Callisto Prime, of course I see that. You'll let me know the moment you find Rojer? And it was a caring sister who asked, not a Tower Prime.

He did not con tact you directly for assistance then?

No, Grandmother. He could have reached me. He's got very strong, you know. I'd say stronger than me Than I, her grandmother corrected absently. I doubt you'll need gestalt to hear when we do find him.

Have you any ideas where he might go? Could lie possibly have gone to Deneb? You children were always keen to visit Isthia.

Laria was astute enough to catch the wistfulness in the Rowan's voice. She would have informed you the moment she was aware of his presence on Deneb. And she would be.

Yes, she would be.

Laria hesitated, surprised by the tinge of despair in her indomitable grandmother's tone. You'll find him, Grandmother, I know it. Especially if Dad's with you. You two could hear to the furthest arm of the Milky Way.

You have a ridiculous tendency to exaggerate, young woman.

The contact was broken but not without Laria sensing that her `exaggeration' had somehow cheered the Rowan.

She's right, you know, Afra told the Rowan, since the exchange had been open to his mind, too. We could make ourselves heard a long long way. Further than Rojer could have thrown that escape pod. But he hadn't turned on the engines so he didn't use them in gestalt.

which means he's near by, concluded the Rowan and allowed an audible sigh of relief to escape her lips.

WE STAY HERE A WHILE,' Flk and Trp told Afra.

MRTGRTS, TOO. ALL COLOURS ARE FADED.

THE MISJUDGEMENT BELONGED ONLY TO THE CAPTAIN AND ITS NEED FOR HONOUR, Afra replied.

NO. THEY WERE REQUIRED TO MAKE THE BOMBS.

THEY WERE GLAD TO THINK THAT IT WOULD BE PERMITTED TO BRING DESTRUCTION TO THE HIVE PLANET WHEN `DINI PLANETS HAVE SUFFERED SO MUCH.' They have a point, the Rowan said but before Afra could argue, she added, I can't stay another moment on this ship.

CONTACT ME WHEN YOU WISH TO RETURN TO THE GENESSEE, Afra told the `Dinis who bowed in acknowledgement.

* * * Reporting formally to Captain Osullivan in his quarters, the Rowan and Afra were immediately offered refreshment.

`I knew old Prtglm was up to something,' he said, `but it's still hard for me to interpret some of the more obscure `Dini body language.

Commander Yngocelen came to me - oh two weeks back - when the KTTS requested some unusual ordnance supplies from our stores. I didn't think much of such oddments and we are under orders to comply with any reasonable requests.

The KTTS had been making probes for Rojer - - - any word on his whereabouts, Callisto Prime? We are most worried for his sake.' `We appreciate that,' and the Rowan sighed again.

`I'd've given anything to have spared him such a shock and the loss of his `Dinis. They, too, are .

were well liked by all the crew and officers. Gave lots of their time teaching us pronunciation and vocabulary Osullivan shook his head.

`I do not think he has gone far, Captain, but we,' and the Rowan gestured to Afra, `would like to go in deep gestalt to locate him.' `A shock like that to a sensitive young man Captain Osullivan said sadly, `he may not wish to be found and, knowing what caused him to disappear, I can't say that I blame him.' `Nor do we, which we shall make paramount in our thoughts,' Afra said. `But the reason for his disappearance has now been removed.

`I needed that,' the Rowan said, finishing the last of the small sandwiches and the wine in her glass. She stood. `Let's find the missing, Afra.' `If I might make a suggestion,' the captain said, his expression startled by the thought that came to him.

`It's always the last place you look. I mean, if you're looking for something or someone.' He glanced from the Rowan to Afra, hoping they followed his illogical rationale. `The last place anyone would look for Rojer - because of the danger - would be on that refugee ship!' `How so?' and then, impatient with slow speech, the Rowan plucked the details from Osullivan's public mind. `Ah, yes, I see your point. The escape pod would be sufficient protection from any residual gases and he'd know the interior spaces to the square centimetre.' Her face lit with a smile that almost made the captain reel from its sudden brilliance. He was full of envy for Jeff Raven, and indeed anyone who was close to such a vivid personality.

He caught the wry smile on Afra's face and felt himself blush at having been quite so transparent. The barest shake of Afra's head, and an increase in his smile, suggested to Osullivan that his reaction was rather common when the unsuspecting dealt with the Rowan.

Commander Metnos immediately ushered Afra to his chair while the Rowan settled on Rojer's couch.

`We may not need to draw much on the gestalt,' she said with a quiet confident smile that put heart in the engineer's uneasy mind.

Metrios had been excoriating himself for not having kept closer tabs on Rojer, on the messages recorded, or not, on his own station.

`We suspect he has parked the escape pod on the refugee ship,' Afra said by way of explanation.

`Of course! Why didn't we think of that?' And Metrios wallowed for a moment longer in guilt.

`Not that it would have done you much good, except relieve your apprehension, Commander,' Afra said, radiating conciliation. He glanced at the Rowan and the pair immediately went into a mind merge which focus stabbed in the direction of the deserted ship.

The pod is there! In a cargo hold on the perimeter of the ship which is in full vacuum, clear of the gas. I believe we could dissipate the rest of it throughout the ship. That might solve transport problems.

So it might. But we know that the ship is within range of the surface-to-air missles That can be altered. Ah!

Rojer, said his father very gently, touching the mind of a boy so deeply sunk in despair and shock that only a flicker was palpable.

Daaaaad? Unexpected joy/immeasurable relief/then shame followed.

No shame, Rojer, no shame! the Rowan quickly responded. You were honourable.

Are Gil and Kat honourably dead then! The anguish/ shock/loss/hatred/fury in Rojer's tone had to be fended off by parent and grandparent.

Laria is correct, the Rowan said on a tight aside to Afra, Rojer has strengthened significantly.

More the pity that his tour should end on such a tragic note.

We will make positive out of the negative, old friend.

Swiftly, the Rowan told the boy what had ensued.

I could have, should have stopped Prtg/m. I could have, using force, Rojer said, still grieving and accusing himself.

NO! both the Rowan and Afra said so fiercely that Rojer recoiled from them.

Sorry, son, Afra said. I know you feel the loss of Gil and Kat very very deeply. Trp and Fik do, too, and with an implacable hatred I have never seen from any `Dini before towards one of its own kind.

Prtg/m is, I believe, roasting in its personnel carrier on Clarf, the Rowan added with some relish, in the noonday sun.

Despite the appalling consequences, Rojer, his father added, you behaved exactly as you should Going awol, Dad? I should have called you! That's what I should have done. Thian got to Granddad when he needed help. But I just Both could hear the sobs that he had been able to choke back until now.

Now, there, love, a good cry is what's needed most, the Rowan said in an uncharacteristically gentle tone, but you are not the only one I assure you. She paused for a long moment, ending with a deep sigh. We all grieve for your friends, Rojer. We can feel your loss as though is our own, Rojer, and you have only to reach out from the focus of your grief to realize that. She felt his hesitant contact and let him see how deeply she, and beyond her all his kin, joined him in mourning.

That seemed to astonish the boy out of his self-absorption. So she went on in a brisker tone. Now, will you need assistance to bring that escape pod back to its proper position?

You're tired, son. Let us help you.

I got myself here, Dad. I'll get myself out.

The Rowan approved of his attitude but, in a tight aside to Afra, she proposed that they surreptitiously assist him.

Grandmother, I'm not being cocky, but this I will do myself All by myself Rojer surprised them both by saying.

Before he had completed the mental sentence, Commander Metrios jubilantly announced that the pod had been reconnected to the Genessee.

The Rowan abandoned dignity and `ported a very weary grandson directly into her embrace on the bridge.

Don't embarrass him, Rowan, Afra began until he saw how tightly the boy clung to his grandmother before he turned to his father, and Afra knew that her instinct had been correct.

A cheer cut through their private reunion and Metrios was the first to grasp Rojer's hand and pound him on the shoulder, forgetting every protocol regarding the Talented in his relief at seeing the boy.

Rojer was too exhausted to be offended and much too gratified by Metrios' genuine response. Doplas, Anis Langio, Yngocelen, even the yeomen and women on duty, all crowded around to welcome the boy back.

The captain's approach made them step aside.

`Rojer, it is such a relief to see you unharmed the captain began, pumping Rojer's hand in his turn.

`No, you're not exactly unharmed, lad, are you, after such an encounter, but you have our sympathy for your losses and our appreciation of your courage. I should have been hard-pressed to stand up to Prtglm when it was so obviously deranged.' The captain's admission surprised Rojer so much his mouth dropped open.

Close your mouth, boy. Learn to accept praise with proper modesty, the Rowan said, but her tone was kind.

Rojer immediately closed his mouth and managed a smile.

`He's out on his feet, Captain,' Afra said, putting a protective arm about his son's shoulders. `I'll take him to his cabin.' Which Afra did with as much tenderness and affection as he thought would not rob Rojer of his new manliness.

Then the Rowan indicated to the captain that she wished to speak with him privately and he led her back to his ready room.

`What Rojer had no authority to do, I have,' she said, gracefully seating herself.

With no subtle prompting from her, he offered wine which she accepted with relief They both sipped, organizing their thoughts. The Rowan had acutely experienced Rojer's trauma which went deeper than she had expected. But then she had not had close `Dini relationships. The boy's attachment to his `Dinis went far beyond that of the unusually deep familial bonds of the Talents so his loss was far more profound.

They'd have to deal with that on his return. She had another, more immediate, matter to attend.

`We must, of course, discuss the proposal I have in mind with Gktmglnt and Admiral Mekturian,' she began and Captain Osullivan gave her as good a double take as she had seen in many a year. She allowed a slight smile to put him at his ease. `That refugee ship must never be used by Hivers. Nor the other ships in orbit.

We have enough of this species loose in the galaxy right now. She held up her hand when Osullivan opened his mouth. `I certainly cannot condone - much though in essence I approve of Hiver containment - what Prtglm had planned nor its proposed delivery. As you may be aware, controversy rages over whether we, the Alliance, have the right to inflict the atrocity of destroying occupied Hiver worlds. That's the sort of barbaric retribution which we humans have outgrown.

Yet we cannot, by the same token, permit them to continue to exterminate life on the planets they wish to colonize.

`It has been put forward that perhaps they recognize only their own species as intelligent and sentient and are unaware that they are slaughtering developing sentient forms. Be that as it may, certain actions have * * been discussed and this situation here allows us some leeway. I will propose to Gktmglnt and Admiral Mekturian, subject to their agreement, that Squadron B demolish the three orbiting ships to prevent the obviously imminent colonial expedition. I shall myself `port the missiles so expediently available: an action in which T-2

Afra Lyon cannot be expected to take part, since he is methody by training and choice.

Now it was Captain Osullivan's turn to drop his jaw and stare at her in amazement, tinged with a certain equally gratifying relief and delight.

`First, however, it will be necessary that the refugee ship be surreptitiously removed beyond the range of planetary missiles. Then it should be easy enough to tow it back to where the Great Sphere is being examined.' She grinned with wicked delight. `How much more we can learn from an intact vessel than a melted hulk.' Osullivan's expression brightened considerably.

`Prime Rowan, it went severely against the grain to know that those Hivers would have four colony ships available to them.' She chuckled, twisting the stem of her wine glass, her grey eyes sparkling at him over its rim.

`Soon there will be none. I'm delighted you find yourself in tune with this plan.

`Delighted isn't strong enough but it will suffice, Osullivan said. `I'm certain that Captain Quacho will concur. I assume,' and he hesitated, `that the KTTS will release the missiles to us.

`The KTTS will insist on taking part as well, Captain.

Their honour needs some restoration.' `Shall we confer with Captain Quacho?' `Of course,' and Osullivan turned to his console to key in the signal.

Afra joined them some time after the Rowan, having obtained Quacho's enthusiastic co-operation and Mrtgrts's agreement, had relayed the proposal to her husband who put the matter before the two Alliance commanders. Captain Osullivan had ordered dinner and, when Afra appeared, asked for service. First he poured Afra a glass of wine.

`My own special favorite, Mr Lyon,' the captain said, hoping by his courtesy he managed to convey what he could not express to the Aurigaean T-2.

Afra tasted the wine with due solemnity and a little smile of appreciation.

`Rojer is all right?' the captain asked.

`He's asleep,' Afra replied, `with Flk and Trp to ease him with good dreams.

`May I say how heavily this despicable incident rests on my mind?' `You have in many ways, Captain,' Afra said solemnly, `and we have been aware of each, even if we have not properly thanked you for the depth of your concern. Rojer will recover. He certainly bears you no rancour. Ah,' he said, changing the subject as stewards entered with steaming dishes, redolent with delectable aromas, `I hadn't realized how hungry I am.' `You were very considerate to bring in those supplies or, I can assure you, my cook would have been hard put to present you a decent meal.' `This is a feast,' the Rowan said, holding up her glass for more wine. `Where does this vintage come from?' `You can't guess?' Afra asked in polite surprise.

`Then it has to be Capellan,' she said with a mild grimace. `It has always amused me that such a methody planet produces such fine vintages.

Let that be a surprise. It'll cheer you up, I know.

The next morning Afra and Rojer left for Deneb where Rojer would undergo such ministrations as his grandmother, Isthia Raven, thought advisable to ease his mind. The large carrier also left with the `Dini pairs needing hibernation and the four crew members whom the morale officer had ordered to take furloughs. The Rowan remained aboard the Gerlessee. She had not discussed the punitive proposal with Afra although she supposed he had picked up references to it from the captain - who was full of the prospect of some action - or any of the elated officers and crew. He said nothing beyond telling her that he would inform Rojer if he felt the knowledge would be therapeutic.

The Rowan also awaited the decision of the High Council though she had some assurance from Jeff that there was little doubt the proposal would be accepted.

It would salve the conservatives that the planet would be left unharmed and placate the militants that all space capability was destroyed.

The decision was affirmative but she would have to await the arrival of Thian Lyon as FT&T replacement and an additional T-1 to assist in the seizure of the refugee ship. Even the Rowan had to admit that the sphere ship had too much mass for her to move even with the assistance of more gestalt power than Callisto Station ordinarily provided.

If it makes you feel any better, my dear, her husband informed her, the T-2s replacing your good self at Callisto are working their balls off desperately awaiting your return.

Do `em good, the Rowan replied smugly.

Does you good, too, my darling, to find that you are nnnot, after all, moving mountains all by yourself Jeff teased her.

Ha! who are you sending?

He gave her a phantom hug and an enthusiastic kiss and a figurative pat on the head for the work she had cut out for herself but he didn't budge on the identity of the third T-1

I suppose it's as well that Thian wasn't here when Prtglm had its brainstorm, she said, knowing she couldn't tease the information out of him.

Prtglm would have gotten no more help from Thian than he did from Rojer. Less. thyan would have seen the missiles immediately `ported out of danger. Possibly even despatched Prtg/m back to Clarf with a blistering note about exceeding orders.

He'd've been exceeding his if he did, the Rowan replied tartly.

love, you can't have it both ways.

I can try!

Until Thian on Squadron A's `Dini KLTZ had reached a point where he could be `ported to the Genessee, the Rowan busied herself reviewing the fascinating tapes Rojer had gathered by probe. Before, the Hivers had been featureless creatures in a death-dealing sphere, now they were still featureless - as humans reckoned such matters - but the work ethos, the discipline, the minutiae of daily life in some of the orders of Hiver creatures, was depicted: and at least one of the worlds the Hivers had chosen to populate. The Rowan spent more time than she intended on such records. Then, resolutely, planned how to destroy the planet's spacefaring capability. The two half-finished ships would be easy to demolish, but the third ship was tightly sealed.

Commander Yngocelen pointed out that the weapon ports would do nicely: there were sufficient of them to penetrate into the ship and then it was a simple matter to `port in sufficient explosives to disintegrate it.

Several conferences on the disposition of the refugee sphere decided that dispersing the lethal gas was not an urgent matter. Rojer had suffered no harm in his escape pod and another would handily accommodate the Rowan, Thian and the third T-1 while they surreptitiously eased the refugee ship out of its holding orbit and beyond the range of the ground battenes.

Permission was also given to destroy any pursuit vessels that the Hiver world might launch. The biggest they would have, according to all information the `Dinis had amassed, would be surface-to-orbit shuttles. The scout vessels might be stored on the closed sphere and blown up along with the ship, but if they were available as deep-space pursuit, the squadron received permission to destroy them, too.

Assuming that there was, indeed, no inter-colony communication, this Hiver world could not call for reinforcements which might follow the squadron's ion trail. By the time a suitable deep-space vessel could be constructed on this world, any traces would have dissipated.

With plans and materiel in place, Thian's arival was keenly awaited. His grandmother thought he looked a trifle gaunt but she caught a remarkable energy exuding from him, once he recovered from a stunned surprise at finding her on board the Genessee.

`Where's Rojer then?' he asked, glancing about him, having looked forward to a reunion with his brother.

His `Dinis, Mur and Dip, were also looking about, for they had been eager to see Gil and Kat. He was perplexed by the minute shock he read from his grandmother. An indefinable sadness darkened her eyes.

Then, with a nod of greeting to the `Dinis, the Rowan unexpectedly hooked her arm in her tall grandson's and walked him from the cargo bay, Thian's `Dinis following discreetly. As they moved slowly in the direction of the captain's ready room, she told him what had happened.

She managed to time her report so that they were within the ready room by the time she had to relate the sacrifice Gil and Kat had made to protect Rojer from Prtglm. She soothed Thian with what mental easing she could while he held his grieving `Dinis tightly against him.

When they had regained some composure, she explained what action was now proposed.

Thian had no reservations about what he obviously considered necessary destruction, only determination and an eagerness to assist her in any way possible. She was well pleased with a mental attitude that did not emanate any vengefulness or malicious delight; feelings which she had sensed in some officers and many crew members. She preferred to think of their coming actions as deterrent rather than vindictive.

Know that your father is not of a militant disposition, the Rowan said, honour requiring her to mention the fact.

Dad find me a hardened millitant all my months on board a `Dini ship, but that would not be why I find this course of action justified, Grandmother. Until we can communicate with the Hive species .

That you'll never be able to do, the Rowan said flatly. I know!

But I understood that the captive queen Is understood at only a very basic level, and on the one or two occasions when a human has been in her presence, the visitor has been totally' ignored as if the human didn't exist I'm beginning to think that they don't recognize any species but their own.

Thian gave a wry grin. You sure do hate `em, don't you, Grandmother?

No, Thian, I wouldn't waste such a powerful emotion on them. At the same time, I will not tolerate any depredations when I can prevent them. That's the distinction which I don't think your father is willing to appreciate. No matter. By the way, did your grandfather mention the identity of the third Prime?

No, and Thian grinned down at his diminutive grandmother, looking more like a slender young girl in the lavender shipsuit she was wearing. He likes his little surprises, doesn't he? When he can pull them on you.

The Rowan scowled and then had to break into a laugh because Thian was enough like his father to ignore what Afra had always called her fits and starts.

`Rowan, ma'am,' the ship's com system began, `please return to the cargo bay for an incoming personnel carrier.

`Damn,' the Rowan said, spinning on her heel to retrace her steps, `he could have warned me.' `I'd say he wanted to give you time to brief me, Grandmother,' Thian said, not at all put out.

`Do you have to stick up for him?' she asked irritably.

`As Grandfather or Prime?' Thian asked, but he had a sense of eager anticipation. His grandfather was subtly providing a diversion from what had been a large dollop of bad news.

`Never mind,' she said and walked all the faster back to the cargo bay.

They had reached the facility just as the generators lifted briefly and then a shiny new single carrier landed smoothly on the cradle. The ensign on duty shot a glance at the Rowan and Thian but she nodded for him to lift the hatch.

Oh, am I late, Cal/is to Prime? was the quick concern of a feminine mind, touching them both.

Thian narrowed his eyes down at his grandmother who was genuinely surprised. He'd mentioned her to me several times but certainly not for this, the Rowan added before stepping forward to greet the girl nimbly leaving the capsule. She smiled graciously at Ensign Tollert who had offered her assistance.

`T-1 Flavia of Altair requests permission to board.

`Permission granted,' Tollert replied, grinning broadly.

`A pleasure to meet you, Flavia,' the Rowan said, stepping forward in turn to touch fingers briefly with the girl. Don't gawk, Thian, she added tightly.

He took two long strides forward as if he had merely given his grandmother precedence. In fact, he had been nearly as stunned as Tollert. Flavia wasn't beautiful in a classical way, not as Laria or some of his cousins were, but she had large and startlingly vivid green eyes and long straight blonde hair which she wore simply pulled back from her oval face by green combs. Standing next to the too-slender Rowan, she appeared well-fleshed and her pale green shipsuit emphasized a very womanly body.

`Thian of Aurigae,' he said, exerting control not to touch her fingers longer than Talent protocol dictated.

Mint/green/rose was her touch.

`I believe Jeff said you are the grandchild of Bastian and Maharanjani,' the Rowan said. `I worked with them, Thian, in the tower on Altair.' Flavia nodded briefly with a becomingly reserved smile.

`The duty has been explained to you?' She nodded again. `It is an honour to work with Callisto Prime for any reason.

`Humph,' the Rowan said.

Tollert cleared his throat loudly. `Ma'am, the conference is waiting on the Primes.' `You have a carisak, Flavia?' the Rowan asked and when the girl nodded, Tollert cleared his throat again.

`I'll take care of that, ma' am. Prime Flavia's quarters are next to yours.

`Hmm, that's as well, the Rowan remarked obliquely. `We shouldn't keep this conference waiting any longer than necessary.' We'll `port once we reach the corridor, she added and led the way.

`How are your `Dinis called, Prime Thian?' `I'm just Thian,' he laughed, disclaiming any title, `and these are Mur and Dip.

`FLV TRUSTS THAT YOUR DREAMS HAVE BEEN GOOD,' she said in excellent `Dini.

Score one for the child, the Rowan said privately to her grandson.

And Granddad, Thian said with a sparkle in his eyes as he opened the hatch for the women.

`Do your `Dinis mind `portations, Thian?' the Rowan asked.

`Not any more,' he said and closed the hatch behind him.

He clasped Mur and Dip against his legs, nodding to the Rowan that he was ready to `port. They all did, arriving in the corridor outside the Genessee's conference room. The Rowan tapped the panel for admittance and a yea-woman smartly opened the door.

M within stood at her entry and throughout her introductions of her grandson and Flavia Bastianmajani of altair.

Thian kept his expression bland as mixed comments reverberated from minds keyed up in anticipation of action. `He's bigger than Rojer.' `That young slip of a girl's a Prime?' `Quite a family resemblance to Rojer with that same white lock of hair.' `Wouldn't mind Priming with her.' `Carries himself well.' `She's a bit young for this sort of operation, isn't she?' `So this is the fellow who spent over a year on a Dini ship alone!

That took guts.' `Why on earth did he bother to save Hive larvae?

Sometimes I don't understand these Talented people.' `Two women and one male barely into manhood to move that mass?' `I wonder will Rojer turn out as well.' And Thian identified the thinker of that remark as the pretty dark-haired astrogation officer, Anis Langio.

There was nothing subtle in his grandfather's seconding of Flavia to this mission, and she was certainly a lovely young woman, but Thian was not going to settle quite so quickly into the family pattern of an early marriage.

Captain Osullivan formally made Flavia, Thian and his `Dini companions welcome. Then, with the Rowan on his right side and Flavia on his left, with Thian seated beside her, he opened the official final planning conference. The captain was certainly not in on any of grandfather's machinations but Thian was extremely conscious of Flavia's proximity, aware of the delicate scent she wore, of the pulse of her very finely tuned and attentive mind. After a year on the KLTZ, he had mastered the art of concentration.

`This is, as I'm sure you're all aware, the first time the Alliance has taken action against a Hive world. You have all seen tapes of the kind of ground-to-air missile attack on the refugee ship but we also know the extent of its range. However, we must not be for a moment lax in vigilance against any unsuspected retaliatory strikes.' Mrtgrts nodded in verification of that caution.

`As you also know, the Rowan has already `ported explosives into the assigned positions to destroy the orbiting ships. Heat-seeking missiles are ready in each ship of the squadron for use in destroying any shuttle craft lifting through the mess they leave in orbit around their planet. Operation Snatch,' and Osullivan grinned, his gaze ending on Flavia's attentive face, `can begin as soon as our Primes are in position. Once the refugee sphere is out of range of surface missiles, the other ships will be blown. We will then seed additional space mines in case the Hive do still have scout ship capability that has not been detected by Rojer Lyon's intensive probing.' He nodded briefly at Thian for his brother's accomplishment. `Are there any questions?' After a brief pause, Thian raised his hand. `Grandmother, Flavia, may I escort you to our vehicle so we can get this show on the road?' `You may be mixing metaphors, thian, but if Commander Metrios' engines are ready to support gestalt. . . She turned to Mrtgrts and Captain Quacho `Are you ready to return to your own ships?' `Ready indeed, ma'am,' the engineer said but his last word was spoken to empty air for all five had gone. `I wish they wouldn't do that!' he murmured, giving a shake.

`Stations, everyone,' Captain Osullivan said, rising.

`Red alert!' `This must be the captain's pod,' Thian said as the three T-1s made themselves comfortable in the escape pod.

`It's a lot roomier than the last one I was in.

`For three, yes, it's roomy enough,' the Rowan said.

`Shall we?' and she nodded at both young people.

`Of course,' Flavia said and Thian murmured consent.

This would be a brief rehearsal for the longer, harder merge they would have to make.

He'd never worked with his grandmother but he was accustomed to merging with his parents and was very pleased when Flavia deftly slipped in behind him as if she had similar hours of practice.

The Rowan-Thian-Flavia merge did not need to touch the power available to it from the linked generators of the three ships of Squadron B in this initial push.

The cargo area to which they were `porting could have held a hundred escape pods. The slightest bump merely gave them notice that the pod had settled on its broad base in the Hive ship exactly as planned: close against the hull, facing the direction in which it was to go.

They were immediately assailed by the most intense stingg-pzzt that emanated from Hive metals, a sensation peculiarly limited to the Talented.

Flavia gave a visible shudder, looking about her, a grimace marring her features. `What is that?' `I do beg your pardon, Flavia, we should have thought to warn you,' the Rowan said, casting an accusatory glance at Thian. `Talent is susceptible to a resonance from Hive metals.' Flavia worked her mouth, producing saliva and shuddered again.

`Unpleasant taste in your mouth, too?' Thian asked helpfully.

She swallowed. `Yes, at the back of my throat. How can you stand it?' `I,' the Rowan said rather loftily, `ignore it When Flavia looked astonished, the Rowan relented. `It is particularly strong since we are inside a Hiver, but shortly we'll be busy enough to be able to put it out of our minds. We'll only have to endure it for a very short time.' `Thank goodness for that,' Flavia said, pursing her lips and rubbing her tongue against her cheeks and teeth in an attempt to hydrate her mouth.

The Rowan initiated the merge then, ever so slowly pushing the ship out of its orbit and the gravitational pull of the planet. Since the manoeuvre was also being performed as night fell across this section of the planet, the stealthy movement was unlikely to be immediately discernible no matter how sensitive the Hive instrumentation might be.

Breathe, thian, his grandmother said once, and he grinned at her as she sat in the padded seat as calmly as if she were in her Tower at Callisto, her silver hair shining in the pod's lights.

Gradually the merge increased its strength, three pairs of eyes also watching the special instrumentation installed in the pod that expressed speed and relative distance from the planet. Slowly they reached the mark on the dial when they had passed beyond the known range of surface-launched missiles.

Stop hunching your shoulders, you two, she added at a later point.

Any missile they could launch would have to penetrate the diameter of the ship to reach us. If that is, they had any idea we are here.

That made both Thian and Flavia smile. He rotated his shoulder blades because he had indeed been unconsciously hunching himself against an attack from the rear. He grinned at Flavia who was rubbing her neck and still trying to swallow the stingg-pzzt away.

`Good. Now we can speed up and complete this snatch,' the Rowan said, absently licking her lips and swallowing against the concentration of stingg-pzzt.

Thian felt the intensity of the merge now and surrendered himself to her guidance at the same instant that Flavia did. He hadn't ever thought to be capable of moving such mass but, with the merge and the gestalt capability, it was abruptly accomplished. He did feel the drop in his energy level when his grandmother released them from the merge and then the slight jar as the tractor beams from the squadron latched on to the sphere.

`I do hope something down there was watching,' the Rowan said with a mischievous smile more compatible to his sister Morag's age and habit than his grandmother's. `First the ship was there. And then,' her smile deepened with great satisfaction, `it wasn't! Well done, thian.

You've been well taught, Flavia, and it's my pleasure to merge with such fine strong minds. Now let's get out of this Hive sink of contamination and put the pod where it belongs. Then we can find out what else has been happening.

`I feel like I need a good long soak to rid me of that awful reek,' Flavia said, making another grimace of revulsion.

`Later, when our work is done, my dear, the Rowan said. `We will have time, however, for a drink to take the taste out of our mouths.' `Something sharp, Grandmother, like orange juice.

`Does this ship have something like that?' Thian `provided' the juice in long cold glasses to Flavia's obvious relief and his grandmother's only marginally less fervent thanks.

`You were far enough away not to have felt any shock waves, Captain Osullivan said when they joined him on a bridge that was packed with officers and crew, and ringed with additional screens so that every view of the theatre of operations was accessed. `Ah, that's our first casualty,' Osullivan added, pointing to the screen which had just ceased broadcasting. `One of the probes Rojer hid in the flotsam.' `The ships?' Thian asked, rapidly checking the secondary screens.

`Reduced to the debris you see floating in a band around the planet,' the captain said with quiet satisfaction. `What the bombs you placed, ma'am, didn't fragment, the mines you sowed did. Mind you, there is a time lag between the event and our visuals of it .

`Do any monitors need replacement?' the Rowan asked. `Now that we've completed Operation Snatch, we are at your disposal. Thian?

Flavia?' The Rowan took the couch, Commander Metrios vacated his seat with alacrity to Flavia and another chair was brought for Thian.

`Well timed, ma'am,' the captain said, pointing in turn to the three central screens which scanned the space field. `They may now retaliate.

`Indeed,' said the Rowan with an almost primitive surge of adrenalin as she recognized the tapered prow of a Hive scout ship emerging from an underground hangar.

`Mrtgrts here, Osullivan,' came the `Dini's liaison officer's unmistakable voice over the squadron link. `Is the second wave ready?' `It is,' the Rowan answered. thian, you will use the missiles on the KTTS as you're more familiar with `Dini ships. Flavia, have you located the Arapahoc's?

Good. It's as easy for us to work from here as on the separate ships.' She waited until she could feel the young Talents `reaching' the missiles on the other ships, her eyes never leaving the screen as first one scout ship, then another, and a third became visible.

`Three. The normal complement of a Hive colonial ship. They'd be a much more interesting challenge if they changed their tactics,' she added almost ruefully. thian, take the right hand one; Flavia, the one that's just emerging, and I'll dispose of the one that made it to the field. I believe it's about to launch. At my count . three, two, ONE!' Each Prime `ported the heavy torpedoes easily to the recommended range. Then, before the Hiver world's warning systems could alert defences, launched them at the correct velocity for devastating strikes.

There was, as Captain Osullivan said, a time lag before the screens would register the result but all three Talents had followed the missiles to their targets and knew their strikes had been accurate.

Until visible proof appeared, Metrios toyed with a stylus, his eyes darting from one screen to the next. Though Captain Osullivan appeared completely at his ease, his fingers beat a tattoo on his arm rest.

Minutes later. the explosions were recorded.

In what appeared like a leisurely fashion, each of the three ships exploded, parts arcing up and then showering down on the trundling Hivers that had been massed on the space field. The debris fell almost gracefully to the now riddled surface and lay smoking and burning in a circle of destruction spread well beyond the perimeter of the space facility.

`Someone's left the doors open, Thian remarked.

`In that case,' the Rowan said with a shrug, `let us take advantage of such carelessness.

Even as additional missiles were armed and sent on their way by the three Talents, more hangar doors punched upward out of the debris on the field, revealing the squat forms of shuttle craft. These emerged at speed from the protection of the hangars but not swiftly enough.

`Fire as ready, the Rowan ordered Thian and Flavia and they lobbed missiles at the shuttles and then into any aperture that could be seen through the smoke and raging fires.

`Is this their only space facility?' Thian asked when no more targets were visible. `There are other substantial buildings on the planet.

`They seem to be agricultural collection depots,' Captain Osullivan said.

`Such is not a target,' the Rowan said, glancing sternly at Thian who shrugged.

`Did the probes not discover where the queens are housed?' Mrtgrts asked.

`No,' Osullivan replied. `We were limited to observational probes, not reconnaissance.

`The queens are effectively planet-bound,' the Rowan said.

`Further action has not been authorized.' `We will remain on orange alert,' Osullivan said, touching the arm-plate for inter-ship communications.

`Captains? Any queries?' `A successful attack,' Captain Quacho said, his brows drawn together in what seemed to be a satisfied scowl.

`Do not rule out the possibility of reprisal,' Mrtgrts said.

Behind it on the bridge, `Dinis could be seen waving their forearms about, expressing their triumph at the success of the mission.

Only Mrtgrts appeared dissatisfied and pessimistic.

`Reprisal with what, Mrtgrts?' the Rowan asked caustically, surveying the destruction on every screen.

Then, putting both hands on the arm rests, she pushed herself to her feet. `If we are needed, call us,' she said to Captain Osullivan.

Thian caught the surprised expressions of Langio, Metrios and Yngocelen but he, too, rose, indicating that Flavia could join them.

He paused by the captain's chair.

`Permission to leave the bridge, sir?' `Of course,' Osullivan said, eyes widening at Thian's formality even as he shrugged as the Rowan disappeared.

`She'd be the last to admit it, sir,' Thian said, leaning confidentially towards Osullivan, `but Grandmother had to expend more energy as focus than we did.' `Yes, yes, of course.

There is absolutely no reason for a T- 1 to apologize or explain any action, thian Gwyn-Lyon!

Thian, catching Fhia's startled expression as she also heard the fierce reprimand, grinned at the girl. No, Grandmother, but it is only courteous to observe ship protocol.

And you are tired.

The bridge door whooshed shut behind Thian and Flavia.

I might be but you are never to presume Grandmother, your husband gave me specific orders on the care and feeding of his favorite wife His only wife And the only Prime who can m Ca dinis to and you are tired.

Fighting a war at any age is tiring.

Flavia's little gasp of surprise caught Thian unawares.

`Was that a war we just fought?' Thian stuttered in surprise.

`Well, a battle, certainly.

What did you think you were going to do here?' `Keep the Hivers from leaving this planet.

`And that's not war?' `It's analogous to clearing out vermin.' `On rather a large scale,' Thian said, wondering at her curious calm.

`We have to do so often enough on altair when there's been prolonged and heavy rains in the swamplands. Otherwise the towns and settlements would be overrun, Flavia said quite matter-of-factly.

Your grandfather did know what he was doing, said the Rowan in a tight tone to Thian and added a snort of amusement.

Dad? There was the special note in his daughter Laria's voice that brought Afra sharply to attention. He was alone in Aurigae Tower, making some minor in-system shipments. Damia was out hunting with Morag, Ewain and all the `Dinis.

Yes, Laria?

Dad, just between us? The unusual note of exasperation and self-doubt was one Afra had never thought to hear from the nearly twenty-three-year-old, confident and poised Tower Prime of the ClarfFT&T installation. On completing her training at Callisto, Laria had taken up her duties with a competenceee that even her perfectionist grandmother couldn't fault. Yoshuk and Nesrun, the T-2s who had originally run the Clarf Tower, had been shifted to Sef, the most major of the four Mrdini colony worlds. Laria had recently been assigned Clarissia Negeva as her assistant, a T-2, who had been trained by David of Betelgeuse. Clarissia was replacing Stierlman who had not achieved the necessary rapport with Laria. She'd had no trouble at all with the other members of her Tower staff Vanteer, the T-6 engineer, or Lionasha, the T-7 station-manager and expediter.

Although there had been `Dini-human pairings on her home planet, Clarissia was unaccustomed to working with them and never gave direct orders to the six paired with the other three station personnel, who happily doubled as cargo-handlers or whatever other functions could be done by non-fT&T personnel.

Clarissia's not working out either? Afra asked.

I do better running the station on my own, Dad, was the tart reply.

She's been here nineteen weeks and she still turns pale when more than our `Dinis are present and you know that `Dinis notice colour changes. And she's been moaning about that carrier ever since it got here. Not, and Laria's mental tone altered, that I enjoy the sight, or more recently the stench from it. Prtglm is definitely deceased.

I'm beginning to think they don't intend to move it, leaving it there as a reminder that a human was responsible for Prtglm's ig'nominious end. Laria's voice had a grim edge to it, then confusion coloured her thought. There's ideographs all over it now. They're andent ones and I can't recognize more than the slashes for dishonour.

Tip arid Huf won't translate: won't even answer me when I ask what they mean.

Yoshuk's a scholar of their ancient forms. what does he say? Or have you discussed this with him?

I have and he says it's too obscure for him but he's still trying to find references. He does reassure me that they're not antihuman.

This is one of those occasions, Afra said firmly but soothingly, when you know that humans don't interfere with `Dini customs.

The custom I can ignore if I understood even if the reek is omnipresent, but I have to be very careful about transfers.

Originally, Prtg/m's carrier came down - hard - on the middle cradle. I was told not to move it to one side, but I didn't, for one minute, realize it was going to take up such permanent residence! I could have used that cradle a hundred times.

Once again her tone altered to one less assured. Daaaad, does anyone there know why it's being LEFT? most don't blame Clarissia but I also need to understand what's going on about it - Prtglm, I mean so I can deal with the reason it's been left there so long. Is it a subtle way of punishing me because I'm Rojer's sister - I doubt that!

Afra replied stoutly. `Dinis don't think in those terms.

I sure hope so, Laria replied, exhibiting some of the distress she had been covering.

I can ask Jeff. I already did and he doesn't know but he doesn't have `Dinis. Do yours know anything?

We never did get any more answer to queries about Mrdini penal codes than that the miscreants were apt to be shipped out Afra paused since Laria would know what that could mean on a long trip. The cynical said that saved time, space and money and was an admirable use of expendables, but the thought made him shudder. He forced himself to more positive thinking for Laria's sake.

Remember Prtglm is, or was, guilty of several . errors of judgement even in the `Dini lexicon, and certainly several against humans. They don't want a repetition and that may be their way of driving home the lesson.

When one's own son had nearly been a victim of PrtgIm's coercion, it was very hard indeed not to take a judgemental stand. Once Afra knew that Rojer was responding to the discreet therapy of his grandmother, Isthia, on Deneb, he felt less bitterness, a most unusual emotion for him, towards the misguided Prtglm. The latest report was that Rojer could now mingle with both humans and `Dinis without the intense grief/loss/ deprivation reactions he had initially experienced.

He was becoming more and more engrossed in his practical engineering studies. His uncle, Jeran, Deneb's Prime, was going to insist that, when the Hiver ship that had been `appropriated' by the Rowan merge reached the investigation orbit at the Mars space facility, Rojer would have a place on that study team. Of course Rojer needed to meet the qualifications, but that had given him a definite goal and he was studying with good purpose and diligence to satisfy the requirements.

I know that, Dad, but to have that grisly reminder on my Tower field Afra could feel the anger flaring within his daughter's mind, an unfocused anger and so ambivalent that it was no wonder that she was under great stress.

You feel that Rojer should have obeyed Prtglm?

No, I mean, yes but Prtglm juSt ought not to have required Rojer who was the only one who could have carried out Prtglm's plan Prtglm is - was - an old revered captain should have been obeyed. That planet should have been first wasted. Her tone was riven with intense animosity. where I know how much damage the Hivers have done to `Dini worlds, and hundreds of others, that . . .

that Xh-33 really should have been When Laria could not find an adequate fate, Afra couched his suggestions in an ironic tone he rarely used with his children. Exterminated? Fumigated? Wiped of life forms?

Scorched beyond use?

There was a long pause. Some thitig like that, so that that planet could never be able to colonize, to massacre innocent life forms on any other planet.

So? We must emulate their methods?

Well, just look what they did. Forcing queens of their own species out of their ship then blasting them, with out ever trying to find out why the ship came? Indignation now coloured Laria's anger.

That's very much a `debatable point, Laria.

It's not that I'm ignoring other opinions, Dad. Aren't I transmitting messages backwards and forwards every day?

You are, but are you listening to the content or just the context?

what do you mean by that, Dad? And what group do you support?

Her tone was aggressive as if any other than the position she espoused would be suspect.

Along with other thinking I find the data insufficient most theories have at least one fundamental flaw. We may never have answers to half the questions we've asked because there is no communication.

Observation is as open to interpretation as any other method of recording, since invariably the observer translates from his or her own experience. There hasn't really been that much useful observation either, Laria said caustically.

Afra smiled, keeping his amusement well away from his argumentative daughter. I disagree, Laria. the material recorded from Rojer's probes is still being analysed All it shows is that the Hivers have knot changed their methods or the dominait drive of their species in the centuries the `Din have known them.

The `Dinis never got close enough to a Hive world to make observations, or attempt contact, Afra said patiently. Laria's feelings were quite pent up, by which he guessed she had had the tact not to discuss this with her Tower staff.

But we know what they do to planets. We know they've been doing it for centuries. Laria sounded querulous.

We know that the `Dinis have reported for the centuries of their sigTh to avoid being `exterminated' and that limited to destroying Hive ships in space. Vie planet Xli-33

is the only one where they, and we, have seen populated by Hivers.

There is a lot more to be known there what we do even by extrapolation, Laria. what exactly upsets you, my dear?

Jh I knew i-m-in; confided in what Afra recognized as a -w of conflict in loyalties.

It is not up to us to dispute the `Dinis' right to punish their own, he said gently. We must not let our own moral integrity be weakened by conflict with theirs. We can expect that `Dini reactions will not mirror ours. For one thing, humans have not fought a sustained battle for centuries, a condition which certainly alters perceptions in a way we can yet evaluate. That we have managed to pursue the joint purpose as far as we have and with as little friction as there has been - You `ve reduced Prtglm to the status of friction'?

Laria sounded appalled.

is a matter of no little achievement. Prtglm caused its own downfall by exceeding orders from the High Council of Alliance: orders in which it and our captains had been thoroughly briefed and in agreement. Do you not see that much?

That's the easy part. w}Lot bothers me so is that Gil and Kat are dead, defending Rojer when none of them should have been put in jeopardy in the first place. But Prtglm is still there!

I can't escape seeing its carrier and knowing what's inside and Suggest in your most off-handed manner the next time you have occasion to speak to either Plrgt r - who's its main assistant know Figtm and Plrgt's now Pl6.

Plrgtgl has been very efficient. I hear its name mentioned more and more. Suggest that the carrier is impeding the full use of the area available to you and is there not somewhere else that it can be placed for even more effect?

Out of sigh4 out of mind, huh, Dad?

Well, out of your sight at least ri it is distressing you to the extent that it has It's not just the corner Ah yes, the matter of ClarisA? If she's not working out, my dear, request her transfer.

But Granddad's going to be furious with me, and there was a quaver of uncertainty in Laria's voice. I couldn't get on any sort of terms with Stiedman and now Clarissia - - I never had any trouble with Yoshuk and Nesmn! I've excellent relations with Vanteer and Lionasha.

Laria's tone rose to the level of guilty confusion and doubt.

Laria, dear, and Afra couldn't resist chuckling, the tales that are told of your grandmother's search for suitable Tower personnel are not exaggerated!

Until you came along, Laria said smartly and then descended into disillusionment again, but you're you and she's the Rowan and You have exactly the same right to - - - ah - dismiss unsuitable personnel though I hope you won `t need to go through as many as she did to get a comfortable fit' in your Tower. Furthermore, your situation on Cia is Jar more sensitive than Callisto or Altair ever were, so it's even more important that you are totally comfortable with and can rely on each member of your staff -A tone of hopefulness entered the conversation Do you really think so, Dad?

I know so. As Prime to Prime, informm Jeff Raven of Earth FT&T that T-2 Clarissia is unable to integrate or accept the special requirements of Cia Tower and you must I can't say `must' to Grandfather Possibly not to `Grandfather', dear, but certainly to Earth Prime Raven! Make the distinction and request a replacement.

And keep in mind, too, that you haven't had a vacation from your duties at Cia Tower in over a year. You might benefit from a respite.

Not right now and not if I have only Clarissia to mind the shop while I'm away, Laria said brusquely. And when did you and Mother last have a break from Aungae?

Ours is a slightly different situation, my dear child. We're not dealing with an alien culture `Dinis are not alien. I've known them all my life!

Nor living on a planet where such a brilliant primary produces stress you may not realize until you are away from it. A little distance might help you resolve some of the ambiguities that bother you. You are not the only one - of us or in the human-settled worlds to have them.

Oh, Dad, I don't consider me unique. Her tone held the quaver of a laugh but immediately altered. Sometimes - - sometimes I don't know what to believe. Then I do, and then something shakes me up again. I really ought to know my own mind by now.

Your mind you know, laria, dear, Afra said with an affectionate chuckle. It's your emotions and changing perceptions that cause problems. I'd hate to think your ideas were graven in granite at not quite twenty-three. Briefly Afra remembered instances of his Damia's captiousness which her eldest daughter certainly had not inherited.

And change is a constant we must all bear with. At least, and he let a grin colour his mental tone, we are not locked immutably into a cultural pattern as the Hivers are.

Gee, thanks for that, Dad!

You're welcome, he said with equal mockery. But he also caught the steadier quality of her mental tone. She'd talked out some of what bothered her. If he and Damia had trouble rationalizing the matter, how hard it was on Laria, a Prime who had not yet found a personal companion to sustain her in arduous and, so often, deeply troubling times. Now inform Earth Prime of the fact that Clarissia's not working out and why. Either inadequacy is ample cause for replacement.

Actually, Laria was as strong a T-1 as the Rowan had ever been: a T-3 or even a good T-4 would be adequate support if they were compatible. One never knew until one tried different combinations.

He'd always been slightly amazed that he, Afra Lyon of Capella, had been acceptable to Callisto Tower Prime Rowan. Maybe He cut off that thought. He had had parents interfering with him: he and Damia had taken great pains not to repeat such manipulation.

When Laria signed off he made his muscles go slack from the unconscious effort of such long `pathing. He told himself it had more to do with the nature of the exchange than age, since the Rowan was older than he and still going as strong as ever. That was when he also felt a bit of the framework on the left side of the couch, coming through the cushioning. How long had the couches been in use now?

Nearly four decades. About time to replace the padding.

He reached out for Damia's mind but she was joyfully retrieving the scurriers she'd brought down with her accuracy on her sling-shot.

He smiled as he felt Morag's envy and Ewain's amazement at their mother's casual skill. They could discuss Laria's conundrum later.

Bringing her home for a brief respite from all those pressures and conflicting theories would certainly rest her mind and buffer her when she returned to duty.

They might be, as so often Talents said between themselves, only a thought away: but that was not precisely accurate. Contact, yes, but similarity or mutuality or harmony of thought was another matter: so was a cuddle when one was depressed.

Afra found himself at odds with his older son on many points on the issue of the Hivers, and even more puzzled by the bizarre actions and notions of his daughter, Zara.

Fortunately, her grandmother and Elizara, the T-l medic for whom she was named, were coping with her and she had passed through a difficult hormonal transition to young womanhood and stability. He knew Rojer was still fighting a private battle with grief, and a harder one with the guilt at having put Gil and Kat in fatal jeopardy. Laria could not escape being sympathetic to the Mrdini interpretations, even if these were considered biased by other, less involved citizens.

Afra swung his long legs off the Tower couch, feeling again the worn place - worn by just this action where the framework was no longer adequately padded.

Just like the framework of long-held ethics and morals was - in some minds - prodding minds through the once comfortable habits of generations.

Afra was also fully aware of other pressures at the highest level - for the Rowan and Jeff often used him as a sounding board and, as often as not, followed his advice.

The intransigence of Prtglm and the deaths of Gil and Kat were having more far-reaching effects on human-Mrdini relations than that carrier left on Claris Tower field. A strong faction of high-ranking Mrdini were of the opinion that, if Rojer Lyon had been old enough for the duties of a Prime, then he should have complied with Prtglm's plan to devastate the planet Xh-33, regardless of the facts that Rojer was a noncombatant, a minor, following the orders he had been given by his superiors. He had only been on the Genessee as a substitute until his older brother was available. The fact that Thian also would not have complied with Prtglrn's orders was irrelevant. But Thian already had `hero' status in `Dini eyes which would have given him the stature to reason with the `Dini captain and helped him defuse the incident tacffully. It was also quite likely that Prtglm would never have tried to coerce Prime thian Lyon.

Yet, since the Mrdinis had allied themselves with humans, Afra mused, they must often have had dreams, and delusions, of using the human kinetic abilities to produce a grand rout of the Hive species.

The fact that the Talents had defeated a Hive colony ship without suffering a single casualty was a frequent theme of `Dini dream-projections and story-telling. When the Mrdini and humans had finally made contact, the humans had enthusiastically embraced `Dini aspirations and followed their guidance since obviously the `Dini had far more information about the Hive predators than humans did.

In total, such information boiled down to a painfully intimate knowledge of Hive ordnance, its range and destructive abilities: of the number of suicide ships needed to penetrate and destroy any Hive intruders; enough of the Hive mode of colonial expansion to know it was fatal to any planetary life-form. Deneb V was remarkable as the only world where Hive tactics had been unsuccessful.

Since these tactics had been effective so long, the Hive species had not altered them, or its ships and armaments, in the centuries that the Mrdini had been defending themselves. The Mrdinis had, on the other hand, improved space ships, peripheral technologies, and more effective unmanned missiles. They had managed to protect their own colony worlds, all the time searching for allies, the Hive home world and new resources to help them win the final victory.

Humans had far too long eschewed wars: naval strength being deployed more in the search for colonial worlds, or as deterrent against the occasional renegade privateer. Consequently, minor incidents of friction were bound to occur between a war-honed species and one which had been at peace, where the only casualties had occurred in space accidents which were then so ruthlessly investigated that repetitions were unlikely.

On the positive side, since the Alliance had been formed and great efforts made by both species to improve communications and appreciation of each other, there had been significant developments that ought to have had a morale-building effect. The fortuitous discovery of the ion trails of three Hive ships had given the Alliance the splendid opportunity to send an expedition to backtrack and locate the Hive home world. The trail had led first to the hulk of the biggest Hive ship ever seen by the Mrdini: a hulk which had been partially destroyed by a searing nova explosion.

To discover if the nova had indeed destroyed the system which had spawned the Hive species, one resolute `Dini ship, with Prime thian Lyon on board, had driven to the origin of the fading ion trail.

Discovery of the damaged Hive ship disclosed that three escape pods had managed to leave the mother ship shortly before the nova shockwave hit it. The human ships had gone in search of the pods to prevent even a single queen from surviving to start a new colony on an hospitable world: a circumstance that the Alliance wished to thwart.

One pod had already been captured and it contained a live queen.

She had been `decanted', as someone termed it, at the Heinlein Moon Facility from which escape was unlikely. Her apprehension made her the first live specimen of this enigmatic species for both human and Mrdini. Shortly after her arrival at the moon facility, she had laid a huge mass of eggs.

The other two pods had also been accounted for: or rather the remnants of the one which had collided with an asteroid and the other whose occupant had died when its supply of oxygen had given out.

The KTLZ, through Thian, had reported the absolute surety that the Hive home system had been incinerated by its nova-sun.

Squadrons C and D were still in pursuit of the other two Hive ships, going firther and firther from their home worlds. One lobby urgently wanted the squadrons to return on the grounds that the two Hive ships were light years beyond any Alliance system and therefore no further threat.

`No immediate threat,' another faction rebutted and urgently wanted the squadrons to explore the significant number of G-type star systems with M-5 planets that had been identified during the pursuit: to see why the Hive ships had ignored them. Were these already infested with the Hive species? But investigation was certainly in order to discover if these primaries had generated planets suitable for colonization for either species of the Alliance.

The quandary of continued pursuit now obsessing the High Councillors was ethical in substance. Was it right, knowing that once the Hive ships found the sort of world they needed to colonize, to let them exterminate whatever life-form might exist? Certainly one of the avowed aims of the Alliance was to seek out and identify worlds that had been taken over by the Hive species and prevent them developing to the point where their population had expanded to the point of recolonizing.

Twenty eggs of the captive Hive queen had suddenly hatched, producing creatures who were apparently limited to attendance on the queen, cleaning her, bringing her food, or sent scurrying down the empty corridors of the Heinlein Base: useless errands since there was nothing but unfurnished rooms, offering only more empty space.

Of more immediate, and perhaps helpful, value was the refugee Hive ship which the Rowan-Thian-Fhvia merge had purloined. It would soon be back at the main Earth Naval Base, totally free of the gases that had destroyed all organisms.

Human and Mrdini naval specialists were impatient to examine an undamaged queens' quarters which contained the control systems for the ship. The most important discovery would be navigational records or star charts that might identify which worlds were Hiver-occupied.

Ever since the Rowan mind-merge had subdued the Many Mind on the Leviathan Hive ship attacking Deneb, it had been assumed that the queens managed all aspects of control on the ship, formulating tactics and forwarding orders to their specialized minions. Whether the duties were equally distributed among them or whether each of the ten to twelve queens on board a colony ship had different responsibilities had yet to be discovered: hopefully from the type of controls in each queen's quarters. Engineers, astronauts and technicians, human and Mrdini, were eagerly awaiting clearance to board this entire ship and begin their investigations.

These positive activities of the Alliance had been somewhat eclipsed by the Prtglm episode: as had the tapes Rojer had taken, unique in establishing the culture, or rather agriculture, of the Hive species.