Hilton stared into space, without seeing.
"I almost had you in Losangles, Falken, but you were too quick for the Guards. Then, when we were trapped at Mercury, I tried to make you sleep. I was leading those ships, too.
"But I was tired, and you fought too well, you and Sheila. After that we were too close to the Sun. My thought waves wouldn't carry back to the ships."
He looked at Falken, and then down at Sheila's thin face.
"I didn't know there were people like you," he whispered. "I didn't know men could feel things, and fight for them like that. In my world, no one wants anything, no one fights, or tries.... And I have no strength. I'm afraid."
Sheila's green eyes caught his, compelled them.
"Leave that world," she said. "You see it's wrong. Help us to make it right again."
In that second, Falken saw what she was doing. He was filled with admiration, and joy that she didn't really care for Hilton—and then doubt, that perhaps she did.
Miner Hilton closed his eyes. He struck her hands suddenly away and stepped back, and his blaster came ready into his hand.
"I can't," he whispered. His lips were white. "My father has taught me. He trusts me. And I believe in him. I must!"