Slowly Jupiter became conscious of a smart in the nape of his neck like a bee sting. He opened his eyes, sat up, touched the base of his skull.
The hard little lump was gone.
Relief left him weak. He caught Tabak's eye, felt his face grow warm.
"About that girl on Betelgeuse XI—" he began uncomfortably.
"You don't need to explain. Under the circumstances you were entirely justified."
He swore under his breath, slid off the table, began to throw his equipment into the pack. "Have you any ideas about how we can get out of here?"
"Don't be angry, Jupiter. I was only teasing. I—"
Tabak's eyes suddenly widened.
She was staring beyond him, Jupiter realized. He twisted around, reaching instinctively for his carbine.
Not thirty feet behind them an adult Anolyn sprawled on the floor, tentacles exploring the air. Its soft brown eyes were regarding them intently. The gray doughy face was expressionless.