They had set a trap for him. Evidently the Khethlani was greedy for minds, for some purpose of its own. Somehow, Carter had avoided the trap, had stayed free of the thing's control. Even now, at close range, he was able to resist the powerful hypnotic command.
I am your master, came the statement a fourth time. I order you to kneel.
Carter saw Gendron and the other two looking at him. Sweat burst out and ran down his face as he fought off the Khethlani's mental command.
"He resists," Gendron said, surprised. "He resists the Khethlani."
I order you to kneel. Kneel or be destroyed.
Gendron began to draw forth his blaster. Carter grasped the rail more tightly, shuddering.
There was only one thing to do. Keeping his mind shut tight against the creature's command, he knelt slowly and bowed his head.
"You ... are ... my ... master," Carter said, in slow, solemn tones. "I ... will ... obey ... you."
"The Khethlani has won!" Gendron exclaimed. "He's under control!"
Rise, Earthman.