Nick looked thoughtful.
"What difference does it make?" Susan asked. "They'll all be killed on the charged barrier, if the proton cannon let them get that far. They can't win."
"Maybe," was all Nick could reply.
The heat grew unbearable, and several times during the long morning they were forced to change position to remain in the shade. They moved as little as possible, saving their energy and conserving their precious body water by avoiding any exertion that would bring on sweating.
Only Klev remained in the sun, his alien body gratefully soaking up the harsh rays. Occasionally he moved, each motion bringing a half suppressed mew of pain to his lips.
"How bad?" Nick asked.
Susan shook her head.
"He says he will be all right, but that swelling Merlo's varlu made near his eye looks serious. His leg is badly hurt, and he's terribly old, Nick."
By midafternoon their faces were flushed and dry, and the powder-fine sand itched intolerably where it had sifted into their clothing. Susan napped, but stirred restlessly and muttered of water.
"Sue," Nick asked when she opened her eyes. "Is Klev in shape to talk sense?"