"Do you think it's wise?" Ool asked.
"Oh, yes," Ryaa breathed. Ryyn grinned.
"I think so. I want you to forget as completely as possible that this conversation ever took place. For a few days try not to think about it or me. It will help me if you don't."
When Ool began to be seen in public with another girl, excited whispers spread the news rapidly. Sympathetic glances came Ryaa's way but she seemed not to notice them. Before long some of her gaiety transferred itself to Ool, and for a time he forgot the tragedy hanging over him.
He was reminded abruptly by a summons from Ryyn.
"I know the answer," he told Ool, "but we will have to have proof. The committee has given permission for an experiment. If Ryaa is willing to take a chance—"
"I'll do anything to help Ool," Ryaa said fervently.
"I thought so," her brother answered. "So I asked the committee to grant you two permission to mate."
"No," Ool cried hoarsely. "Not Ryaa. I don't want her to die too."
"Nothing will happen to Ryaa if you both do exactly as I say. It's our only chance to prove your innocence. Besides, I've already made the announcement. There's nothing you can do about it now."