The Dragonbird settled lightly to the ground, and Elliot saw deep intelligence glowing in the creature's golden eyes. It seemed almost as if the thing could read his mind. _I can read your mind, Daniel Elliot_, came the telepathic reply. "You--you're intelligent, then?" There was a touch of sorrow in the mental voice as the bird said: _I am the last of my race. We were the rulers of Venus long before your ancestors had discovered the use of fire. But--_ After a pause, the bird continued. _Well, no matter. What happened does not concern you. I permit myself to be worshipped by these natives. They bring me food and keep me comfortable, and in return, I hypnotize their enemies and keep their small island safe. It is a pleasant life, and I am becoming old._ "How old?" Elliot asked. _Several thousand of your years_, the Dragonbird replied. "And you--" The Dragonbird silenced him. _No, Daniel Elliot; I do not want to answer questions. I am solely concerned with the debt I owe you for saving my life. This Blayne held your future in threat. I think I can aid you and punish him doubly by foiling his plans._ _Don't be surprised by anything you see._ The Dragonbird wavered a little, and suddenly it was a bird no longer. Standing before Elliot, fat, ugly face and all, was-- Housten Blayne! "Don't look so surprised, Elliot," came Blayne's snarling voice. "You'd be surprised what a little high-powered hypnosis can do." Elliot rubbed his eyes and looked again. It was still Blayne, a smug smile on his heavy lips. "I'm going to reward you," said Blayne's voice. "You and I will take the late Mr. Blayne for every credit he's got, and we'll get those papers out of his safe." "But--you mean you'll take Blayne's place?" Elliot asked, feeling as if he were in a dream. "Temporarily." The fat figure of Blayne wavered and became the Dragonbird again. _Get on my back, Daniel Elliot._ Moments later, they were soaring high in the sky, heading toward Venus City.