"I can't see that it matters what you told them. We can see the result."
"I'm more interested in how you got to them," Nicko said. "You don't know their lingo."
"There are ways if one has the time." McKee had come forward and was regarding Nicko with interest. He was not alone. Katal'halee and every soldier within range was also regarding him with interest. "Just what manner of creature is this, anyhow?" Talbott asked.
"Why you slab-sided slob—!" Nicko yelled.
Talbott flushed and took a backward step. The three soldiers moved forward, scowling.
"Take it easy," Mike said. "We know how we stand. It's just as well we don't antagonize these people any further until we can get some kind of foothold."
"You'll get a foothold," McKee sneered. "In the priests' embalming rooms." With that, he turned and walked away, obviously satisfied with the situation. Talbott turned to follow him. He bowed to Katal'halee as though awaiting her pleasure. The proud native Princess appeared to have had enough of this spectacle and moved haughtily aft. As he followed her, Talbott glanced swiftly back at the prisoners as if to say: See how solidly we're in? You haven't got a chance. This was all too evident.
"What do you suppose they're up to?" Mike asked.
Doree looked up questioningly. "What do you mean?"
"They aren't just here to enjoy the hospitality of these people. They've got something more in mind."