"They will be told. Sol will ask their help." "But ... I see," agreed Vorgan. "Being against all forms of alliance means that they will form an alliance, temporarily, in order to keep from being included in an everlasting tie. Yes, you are right. We may have to force them. But let us conquer Sol at any cost. And soon." "As soon as we can prepare." "Better cut the preparation somewhat. Let the initial attack come before full preparation. Only in that way will we gain time." "It is a gamble." "I know it is a gamble," agreed Vorgan. "But one must gamble if the Galaxy is worth the fight." "I wonder if we could convince the Sscantovians that our interests--No, it would not work. I like not that idea." "Sscantoo would demand proof. It is far easier to prove that we have been all-conquering than otherwise. An alliance with them could not be made. To do so would require that we give them full confidence. And we cannot control a quarter of a galaxy of Loard-vogh slaves so well that they must not speak. And their weapons are less efficient than ours--we could gain nothing but manpower which we do not need.... No, Lindoo, we must go forward alone as we always have." * * * * * Lindoo smiled. "We must be on the everlasting lookout for spies." "We shall. I wonder if it would not be best to exterminate them completely." "I could do it alone." "I know. I wonder. They are a hardy race, though, and ambitious workers. Extermination--" "Merely eliminates one menace." "I don't think it would work." "May I try?" "May I have your head if you fail?" snarled Vorgan. "Then I shall not try, Lord of All." Vorgan nodded cryptically. "Losing faith in your own ability?" "No. I merely have reason to respect your judgment." "You are a true diplomat, Lindoo. Someday it will get you into trouble." "When it does, that is a sign that I am not as good a diplomat as I thought I was." "Or that someone has exceeded you, Lindoo." "I might wear out--" "No. When you fail, Lindoo, it will be because you have confronted yourself with your superior." "And then?" "Then the Lord of All will have a new Head of Strategy." Lindoo laughed. "At that time I shall expect you to need one. Well, I must start preparation. I have much to do." "You have," nodded Vorgan.