heir pleasure at seeing one another again, or in
meeting for the first time. They came together
at the table and formed small groups.

Camari and Narval took each other's measure as they
worked their way forward. Camari, as host, paused
at each knot or singular meeting to shake hands
and express his pleasure to each Head of State
for accepting his invitation. Politicians all, supreme
diplomats of the Solar Community, they accommodated
to the occasion and replied in kind.

Camari and Narval came face to face. Silence
gripped the room.

"Greetings, President Narval," Camari said, "your
presence at this conference will contribute much
to its success."

"Greeting to you, President Camari. I feel certain
that it will."

"I remind you, President Narval, these are indeed
desperate times. Extraordinary measures are
essential if we are to preserve our civilizations,
perhaps our species. Separately or collectively,
we must be prepared to take risks for our survival.
Do you agree?"

"Not only do I agree, Mr. President, but I shall
remind you of your words as we proceed through
these deliberations."

"So be it."

Camari nodded and turned away. With everyone's
eyes on him, he strode to his place at the table,
spread his arms again wide in welcome, and sat.

Greetings over, the Solar System's leaders took
their places at the great table. Their advisors
entered and took seats behind them.

The first convocation for the survival of the
entire Solar Community was under way.

Chapter FORTY

Captain Hyk strode the bridge impatiently.

"Point Icarus in ten minutes," he reported to
Drummer and Brad as they entered the tight
compartment. "The Jovians and Saturnians are
coming up fast, and the Neptune-Uranus team
is close behind. Orders?"

"You'll get yours with the rest, Har," Drummer's
tone reflected his tension. He turned to Brad.

"Brad, I wish to address the Commanders of all
Plutonian ships. Set up closed communications,
please."

"Yes, sir."

Brad strode to the console he and Drummer had used
to assess the fleet's status a short while before.
He detached a microphone from the bulkhead nearby,
keyed the computer, and spoke.

"Attention, all ship Commanders of the Plutonian
Assault Force. Rig for secure 'Commanders Only'
communications with Admiral Drummer. The Admiral
will speak in one minute. Countdown -- start now."

He handed the mike to Drummer. The first of many
uncertain steps woul