“What’re my chances on this one, Stet?”
Stetson shrugged. “I’m afraid they’re slim. These goons probably have the Delphinus, and they want you just long enough to get your equipment and everything you know.”
“Rough as that, eh?”
“According to our best guess. If you’re not out in five days, we blast.”
Orne cleared his throat.
“Want out?” asked Stetson.
“No.”
“Use the back-door rule, son. Always leave yourself a way out. Now ... let’s check that equipment the surgeons put in your neck.” Stetson put a hand to his throat. His mouth remained closed, but there was a surf-hissing voice in Orne’s ears: “You read me?”
“Sure. I can—”
“No!” hissed the voice. “Touch the mike contact. Keep your mouth closed. Just use your speaking muscles without speaking.”