Bukal shot a quick glance around. "No women—?"
"No." The man shifted. "We thought you'd want fighters."
"Fighters—?" Bukal stiffened. "What do you mean? Why would we need fighters?"
The burly one fumbled. "Why ... to meet Zenaor's raiding party...."
"Raiders—!"
"Yes. Had you no warning?" The informer choked on his own spittle. "Vydys herself brought the word. Last night an alien from another system stole Zenaor's daughter and disced south with her. Now Zenaor swears—"
Bukal swung round, eyes blazing. "Earthman! Is this true?"
Numbly, Craig nodded.
"That girl! Zenaor's own daughter!" Bukal choked with fury. "You brought her to our village! You gave no warning!"
Craig held his voice chill: "So? Could you ask for a better hostage?"