"This is your cabin," said Koal unlocking the door. "Slaves keep it cleaned." They went inside. "If you let me know the number of your stateroom aboard the Jupiter, I'll see that you get your personal belongings when we arrive in Behrl."
The cabin, Norman observed, was similar to the one he had left. He set about stowing away his gear.
"You have a great deal to learn," said Koal and sat down on the edge of the bunk. "The Dohlmites regard us as dangerous animals. But as long as we obey orders we are left alone."
"What happens to the prisoners?" Norman asked suddenly.
"They're sold from the block in the slave market."
"You mean anyone can buy a slave?"
"Certainly. An agent of the Dohlmites bids a flat hundred notes for each captive. If any of them strike your fancy you only need bid above the hundred notes. Of course when a pretty wench is auctioned off the bidding among the men gets rather wild."
"Jupiter!" breathed Norman pausing in the act of pulling on his blouse. "Was that right, what the Dohlmite said about the recruits sharing equally with the crew in the loot."
The Martian nodded. "Half goes to the Dohlmites. The remaining half is divided among the crew. That includes the cargo, whatever the captives bring on the open market and salvage value of the ships themselves."
Norman grinned. His first purchase with his share of the prize money would be Jennifer Scott.