Loong reached inside his tunic and brought out a needle gun. "Your scientists did an excellent piece of work."
"What do you mean?" Savage asked, and at the same time knew there was no escape.
"I mean that you are a Terran. You betrayed yourself under hypnosis."
Savage knew the bitter feeling of utter defeat. He had accomplished nothing and now this was the end. But Loong wasn't wearing the look of triumph that was to have been expected. Instead he was smiling and he put the gun away as he said:
"I should hate to see you executed. I wasn't just talking last night when I disagreed with our policies. I think a friendly and mutually beneficial relationship can and should be established between our planets."
"That's fine," said Savage, "but what can you do about it?"
"That remains to be seen," answered Loong. "I propose that we join forces. The fact that you have been able to come this far makes you a worthy ally. And without me you can do nothing. Is it agreed?"
"Yes," said Savage.
"Excellent. I have several matters to attend to, but I will return at six. As a recently returned space officer it will be expected that you enter social life to a certain extent and I think it best that you begin tonight."