Mia looked from the Blue Venus to Llana in bewilderment. There didn't seem to be over five years difference in their ages. "It's ... it's impossible!" she blurted out.
The Blue Venus smiled enigmatically.
Cosmo said: "I thought, Llana, that Sofi was the hold Bemmelman had over you."
At mention of the planter's name Llana stiffened. "He'll kill Sofi if I betray him!"
Cosmo shook his head.
"You haven't any evidence against him," she insisted. "Even if you had, they wouldn't believe the Renegade."
"Exactly," said Cosmo. "Answer the telecast, Llana."
Her face set. She went to the audio, switched it on.
"The Security Patrol is here," came Rabaul's voice. "What shall I do with them?"
Llana glanced deadfaced at Cosmo, who said in an undertone: "Tell him to send the Commissioner here. Have his men served with refreshments."