Well, then, said Sifra, theres something else we need to talk about. He turned to look at Gabrielle. Megan will know by now that were here. That means we need you to talk to her.

How? she asked.

Sifra tapped the side of his head. Youre both machine-heads or did you forget?

Oh. Gabrielle nodded. Megan had given her a few brief lessons in mind-to-mind communication back at the research base, but it had been so long since then that she had almost forgotten. Is that possible, with her being so far away?

We can route you through the Ingersolls tach-net transceivers, said Tarrant. That way you should be able to communicate with each other fairly easily.

Our main concern, said Sifra, is to stop her from stealing what is rightfully ours. Once she knows youre on board, it might give her the motivation not to do anything that might put the Ingersoll and you in danger.

Ever since they had discovered Megans true identity, they had all assumed she was driven only by a desire for personal profit. Some inner instinct had kept Gabrielle from correcting them.

She stared back at Sifra with a humourless smile. I dont think thats going to make any difference.

Tell her about the other option, Anil, prompted Tarrant.

Other option? she demanded, looking between the two men. What other option?

A second stealthed nova mine was placed in orbit around Bellhavens sun a few days ago, said Sifra. You need to make it very clear to her about the consequences if she doesnt back off.

Bellhaven? Gabrielle stared at them both in utter confusion. Bellhaven, as far as she knew, was a world somewhere on the far side of the Accord from Redstone. What the hell does Bellhaven have to do with anything?

Its Megans home world, said Tarrant. Or, rather, it was Dakota Merricks home world. And since theyre essentially the same person, Im willing to bet shell do just about anything to save it from destruction.

Gabrielle felt numb with horror. I wont have anything to do with it. I cant believe even you would murder an entire world just to get your way.

Tarrant shook his head. Its out of my hands, Gabrielle. I had nothing to do with the decision.

Right, she replied mockingly. So youre just following orders, is that it?

His face flushed with anger. Dont try and play with me. If anything happens to Bellhaven, its going to be on her conscience, not mine or anyone elses. So you can either do what youre told, or I can let Anil persuade you with his gloves. And, if it comes to that, Ill make sure the entire process is recorded for Megans benefit.

To her own surprise, Gabrielle laughed. It wont make any difference, she said. She wont do what you want not ever. And you wont do anything to me as long as you need me.