"Others go sane also," he said.
"This is the first time that has happened in my experience. But truly, Mattern, a madman would not seek to reach us."
"I wonder," Mattern said. "I wonder if anybody but a madman would."
This time he had displeased her. There was chill silence, and then: "Time is short. It is best that we return to discussing our business together. Now we will pay you for the merchandise you have brought us with a substance which is stable on Earth—at least it was in times gone by—and which used to become a stuff of considerable value. On your next trip—"
"What makes you think there's going to be a next trip? What makes you think I'm going to come back here again?" He would really have to be a madman to go through that all over again.
The mbretersha smiled. "You will come, Mattern," she said. "You will come when you see how rewarding it is to deal with us. And you will come because—"
"Because of what?" he demanded, more sharply than one should address a queen.
"Because your kqyres will make sure that you do." The tall, splendidly illuminated being who stood close to her throne bowed as she introduced him: "This is Lord Njeri, who served as kqyres with the previous captain. He will serve with you."
"Kqyres? What's that?" Apprehension quickened inside Mattern. "And what right have you to—"
"Your partner is dead," the mbretersha told him. "Lord Njeri is your new partner."