choking on the Thista honeywine. “Haven’t you anything else, something from Darkkan?”

“Sorry, friend,” Narvi grinned, “but you can be glad to get this. The 36th Command has been drinking up even this stuff. I’ll see you later, in the hospital.”

“All right, Narvi.” The big man started away, but Lors stopped him by grabbing his blue sleeve. “Narvi?”

“Yes.”

“Thanks. Thanks a lot.”

Firstspacer Narvi punched him playfully on the arm and left the compartment. The medical men came in then, hooking the anti-gravity capsules to the bed and setting them into motion. The cot-like stretcher lifted and the men towed him out to the freight elevator. As they stowed him into the ambulance, he could see Narvi’s staff car skimming toward the Commandant’s building to make out his report.

[p98]No doubt Commandant Imry would be coming to see him, later on.

[p98]

[p

]

Nick groaned. Another dream that was beginning to clear things up a little...

“He’s coming around.” The words were not English, but Nick understood them.

The big blond cursed softly. “Speak English, Thesa. Someone might hear you!”

“There hasn’t been anyone around this farm in months,” Thesa replied, lapsing into English. “But if you’re getting particular, don’t call me Thesa.”

Nick opened his eyes and blinked at them. It was the two watch dogs, the blond and his sandy haired friend. The giant was grinning at him.

“Hello,” he beamed. “Remember me?”

“No! Who in hell are you?” Nick struggled to get out of the chair he’d been dumped in, but was pushed back firmly.

“When you didn’t report, we went out to find you. The old guy at the gas station covered up for you, so we had to watch Beth’s house. Used all kinds of tricks, Lors. Why in the blue heaven didn’t you make contact?”

“You’re Narvi!” Nick stared with wide eyes. “You’re the man in the dream!”

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