Rane added, "And that at least one of the group already has been captured!"
"Probably."
There was silence for a moment. Santin said evenly, "That isn't a pleasant thought. Halder, everything we've learned recently at the Identification Center indicates that Rane's theory is correct ... every one of the twelve hundred members of the Kalechi group probably can be analyzed down to the same three basic identity-patterns, reshuffled in endless variation. The Federation wouldn't have to capture many of us before discovering the fact. It will then start doing exactly what we're trying to do—use it to identify the rest of the group."
Halder nodded. "I've thought of that."
"You still intend to use the Senla Starlight Cruisers to get out into space?" Rane asked.
"Kilby and I will," Halder said. "But now, of course, you two had better select one of the alternate escape routes."
"Why that?" Santin asked sharply.
Halder looked at her. "That's obvious, isn't it? There's a good chance you're still completely in the clear."
"That's possible. But it isn't a good enough reason for splitting up. We're a working team, and we should stay together, regardless of circumstances. What do you say, Rane?"
Her husband said, "I agree with you." He smiled briefly at Halder. "We'll be waiting for you on the north shore of Lake Senla ten minutes before the Starlight Cruise lifts. Now, is there anything else to discuss?"