He clicked a switch and manipulated the dials with swift surety. A bit of crackling came through but nothing more. He increased the power. "Afraid we're out of range, and we're moving away fast! Wait...."
The dial began to glow with an inner light. A man's face appeared there, rather fuzzy and indistinct. Ric moved the dials infinitesimally and a faint voice was heard.
"Quickly!" Ric held the disc to Tal Horan's lips.
But the girl came forward. "Allow me, Tal! It is time that Dar Mihelson knew...." She spoke crisply. "Unit Twenty-six calling the Valiant! We're moving away fast so listen carefully, Dar Mihelson! You must not fight—it would mean destruction! Look to your magni-plates ... use your speed, and stay out of Earth Fleet's range!"
Mihelson's answer filtered through, something about "Fight to the death...."
The girl's eyes flashed, she became magnificent. Her voice took a tone of unmistakable authority.
"It is Praana speaking, the Princess Praana, daughter of Bedril! I order you not to fight, Dar Mihelson! You will not place my people in such peril!"
A thousand miles away on the Valiant's huge televise, Praana's face must have been visible. She realized that instantly, and went on.
"I am in disguise, Dar Mihelson! It was Bedril's last order, and we planned this well. I must remain as a rallying point for my people in the time of their direst stress. The time is now! Mihelson ... you know my voice, do you not?"
"But what are we to do, your Eminence? We cannot return to Mars ... Wessell blocks our way to Earth...."