"A fine haul, Captain." He touched his dark mustache and a grin slit the sallow face. "About fifty Mutes." Then his grin faltered as he saw the Captain's expression.
Lodar faced him with huge fists balled on his hips.
"Who the hell gave you permission to set fire to that village, Mister?"
Campora's brown eyes darted once to Ray as if for support. His lean hand covered the black mustache. "Just a little fun for the boys, Captain." The Mate's voice was placating. "We—"
"Fun, eh!" Lodar's eyes were narrow as he thrust his heavy face forward. "If there's any fun to be dispensed, I'll do it! Do you morons realize that the smoke will alert half the patrol ships in space?"
"I—I'm sorry, Captain." Campora backed away. "You see—"
"Shut up!" Lodar jerked his dark head. "Take over from Burk."
Feeling sorry for the cowed mate, Ray relinquished his controls and gave the course. Campora stared.
"But—I thought we were to head for Mars!"
"I changed that," Lodar interrupted impatiently.