"Shar Bytu sent me to you," she informed him.
"My thanks to Shar Bytu," replied Jonathan, throwing aside the fur and rising. Someone had clothed him while he slept. He wore thin trousers that clung to his ankles and bellied outward as they went up. A broad leathern belt fitted snugly around his waist. His great chest was naked. Fur sandals protected his feet.
The girl was likewise clad, with bare midriff and a halter of white fur about her breasts.
"This is the universal garb for counsellors of our make," the girl said. "Others wear different clothes. Still others wear none, having no sex."
"I'm Jonathan Morgan. Do Zarathzans—er—have any names?"
"Silly. Of course. I'm Adatha Za."
Jonathan grinned and said, "Glad to know you. And now that introductions are over, suppose you let me in on the big secret around here. Just what am I doing on Neeoorna?"
Adatha Za was startled.
"You do not know? Didn't Shar Bytu tell—but perhaps he left that to me, seeing that I am not a—reptile."