The scene shifts from the council meeting on Sargol to a conversation between Van Rycke and Captain Jellico on the Solar Queen. Van Rycke's expression was grim as he entered the ship, his eyes fixed on Captain Jellico, who was seated at a console in the control room. "Captain, we've got trouble," Van Rycke said, his voice low and urgent. Jellico looked up from the console, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in Van Rycke's expression. "What kind of trouble?" he asked, his tone neutral. Van Rycke hesitated for a moment before speaking. "The Companies have sent someone to Sargol," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "A Company man, and not just any Company man - a Cargo-master from Inter-Solar." Jellico's expression didn't change, but Van Rycke could sense a flicker of interest behind his eyes. "Go on," Jellico said, his tone still neutral. Van Rycke took a deep breath before continuing. "He showed up at the council meeting and claimed that he was there to negotiate with us. But it's not just that - he's trying to poach our territory." Jellico's expression changed slightly, a hint of anger creeping into his eyes. "That's not possible," he said, his voice firm. "We have the rights to Sargol, and we're not going to let some Company man come in here and steal them from us." Van Rycke nodded in agreement. "I know, Captain. But it's not just that. The Companies are always looking for ways to expand their territory, and if they can get their hands on Sargol, they'll do whatever it takes to make it happen." Jellico's expression turned grim. "We need to talk to the Patrol," he said, his voice firm. "They're the only ones who can help us deal with this situation." Van Rycke nodded in agreement. "I've already sent a message to the Patrol, Captain. They should be here soon to discuss the situation with us." As they spoke, the door to the control room slid open and a young officer entered. "Captain Jellico, we're receiving a transmission from the Patrol," he said, his voice crisp. Jellico nodded, his eyes fixed on the officer. "Put it through," he said, his voice firm. The officer nodded and stepped aside, revealing a viewscreen that flickered to life as the Patrol's transmission was received. A stern-faced officer appeared on the screen, his expression serious. "Captain Jellico, this is Commander Ortega of the Patrol," he said, his voice firm. "We've received your message regarding the Company man on Sargol. We're sending a team to investigate and deal with the situation." Jellico nodded, his eyes fixed on the viewscreen. "Thank you, Commander. We appreciate your help in this matter." The commander's expression turned grim. "We'll do everything we can to help you, Captain. But be warned - the Companies are not to be underestimated. They will stop at nothing to get what they want." Jellico nodded, his expression serious. "I understand, Commander. We'll be ready for them." As the transmission ended and the viewscreen flickered off, Van Rycke spoke up. "Captain, I think we should prepare for a fight. The Companies are not going to give up easily." Jellico's expression turned grim. "Agreed, Van. Let's get the crew ready. We're in for a long night."
By Andre Norton · First published 1956 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Action · 18 chapters