"I order you to stay here!" Dubrow snapped.
"But—"
Hesitantly Mannion took a few steps toward the airlock. The androids outside were sauntering casually around like unemployed thieves. It wasn't a natural way for androids to behave.
"Sir, I request special permission to go out there and investig—sir!"
Dubrow was throwing open the airlock—and the androids came rushing in!
He's crazy, Lieutenant Mannion thought. I've got to take charge—keep those androids from wrecking the Project—
"Get away from there, sir! Close the lock!"
"Don't give me orders, Mannion!"
Dan shook his head and started to run toward his superior officer. But suddenly Dubrow charged him.
The abrupt assault bowled him over. Dan ducked and tried to land a punch but Dubrow had his blaster out. A blow crashed into Mannion's forehead. He tried to clear away the cobwebs but Dubrow hit him again and all went dim.