n't mean to
stare at her like that. It's just that it's hard to tell her features
beneath that coverall."

"I know that, Morgan. Still, it's a fine couple of gentlemen we've
become. Myself especially, for having thought of it. But if we could
eliminate Hunter....."

"No, I think it's a good plan, as far as it goes. And if we've lost a
bit of humanity, it only helps us understand their mentality. I was
there when they drafted the plans for these raids. I've also had a
glimpse of what they've got in store for the Laurian socialists. The
only way to stop them, or at least hinder them until the rest of the
quadrant wakes up, sees these bastards for what they are and sends out
real armies to stop them, is to strike at all points, especially the
top, and be just as cold and unfeeling as they are."

The other said nothing, stared soberly at the floor.

"You're right." He got up and paced across the room, his hands behind
his back. The shield went down, and the girl reentered with the boy.
She addressed herself to Morgan.

"I'm sorry I was short with you. I'm sure if you're with Lawrence you
have your reasons. You just caught me off guard." The men exchanged
glances, but did not reply. "I'm willing to do what I can..... You
must be hungry."

"No. Thank you, I must be going. I apologize too. My name is Morgan.
Keep in touch, Lawrence. This will take time, but there are other
things you and I can do until then. Elonna." He rose and lifted the
rifle and left the room. The boy approached Lawrence and punched him
in the leg. The man looked down but did not smile.

"Why so grim?" she asked, not entirely able to keep the sarcasm from
her voice.

"You don't know what we're up against."

"Finding my husband dead on the balcony, I think I have a pretty good
idea..... And how many did you lose?"

"I didn't have to. My family was killed in a transport accident two
years ago."

... "I'm sorry."

"Then don't speak of it again."

... "Are you hungry?"

"Yes. Yes, I'm hungry. Why don't you see if you can make us something
that doesn't taste like tar. I'm going to lie down. Wake me if I fall
asleep."

"All right."

She went to prepare a meal. The child followed. When the food was
ready she called him and they ate without talking. The only sounds
were the small sounds of the boy, tapping his tray with the utensil and
humming softly to himself. Once he looked up at the woman and laughed: