The Venusian, he noticed, had two blue stars tattooed on his forehead. Probably, Jaro thought, he was the leader of the mercenaries.
The Venusian said, "That was a very neat shot," in perfect English. He turned to Jaro. "I think we have met before."
Jaro frowned.
"In the services of Chaldmar, Zealot of the Venusian state of Zeld," the Fazoql prompted. "You were Captain of the Imperial Guard at the time."
Jaro's eyes lighted with recognition. "Certainly, Colonel. How stupid of me. I'm really very sorry that we're on opposing factions."
"Fortunes of war," the Colonel smiled. "Though with Albert Peet dead the game is up, anyway."
During the conversation the Red Witch's green eyes had first widened, then narrowed. "You getting ready to sell me out, Colonel?" she asked angrily.
The Venusian turned to her, said, "Miss Mikail, I couldn't possibly sell you out. I was never cognizant of any contract between us. My men were hired by Albert Peet. So were yours. With him dead, our bargain ends."
"Colonel," said Jaro, "would you mind telling me what was the nature of your agreement with Peet."