That would mean absolute co-operation with Thomakein. Elanane had appointed Thomakein to study Terra and to report. A spy, if the word must be used. Elanane would accept the word of his friend and do as that friend suggested. But Elanane might go so far and no more. There is a vast difference between preparing to stand off a possible invasion and preparing to fight an offensive war. Elanane might believe that the best defense is a quick offense. Would Thomakein do away with a friend for that? Hardly. It must be deeper. Coincidence was too thick. That alcohol and irritation business did not make sense. Ertinian anti-lamine drugs were similar to Terra's, and furthermore Ertinians used alcohol which would mean that the Ertinian drug must have been tested under these conditions. That brought up another thought. If Thomakein had slipped a neutralizer into Guy's drinks, he could almost be certain that exposure would follow. Would Thomakein gain by such a deal? Well, would he? Guy's hand found the sensitivity control and stepped the power high. His sensitive fingertips tuned for maximum contact with Thomakein. The answer he sought exploded in his mind with clearness and conciseness. Its sheer audacity staggered Guy. The very gall of the man was appalling, and yet the utter forcefulness of Thomakein might push it through. The plan itself was so daring that Thomakein would stun those who were against him. Not permanently, but they would be amazed long enough for the Ertinian to take his toll. Once Thomakein unwound his plot, it would defy catching. * * * * * Guy headed for Thomakein's office on the run, and caught him present. "I've just figured it," snapped Guy. "So? Figured what?" "That little plot you've been cooking!" "Plot? You mean my plan for--" "It's a stinking plot and nothing more." "You're a little upset, Elanane. Remember that you live only at my bidding." "What did you do to Elanane?" "It was unfortunate--" "The men who permitted his death were dealt with," admitted Guy harshly. "So?" "But removing Elanane permanently didn't bother you at all." "No, not too much. But remember that Elanane was my friend." "I hope that I never have such a friend." "You have," smiled Thomakein in a superior manner. "You? God forbid!" "Look, hothead, cool down. If you get tossed off of Ertene, then what?" "I made an oath to protect Ertene." "You made an oath never to return." "I also made an oath never to tell. Also one previous to tell Terra of anything I discover." "Do you suppose that Ertene will believe anything you tell them once the truth of your broken oaths are known?" "They needn't know. I--am Elanane." "We can put a stop to that," snapped Thomakein. "I think that I can stop you first." "No doubt," said Thomakein easily. "The Terran methods of hand-to-hand fighting are devastating. But you'll never conceal your victory." "You stinker," snarled Guy. "How about Leil?"