Reed had straightened but continued flexing his fingers as if he wanted to strangle someone. Dev had no doubt as to who that might be, though the process would be complicated by the fact that Vantolos had no neck.

“Turn around.” His tone was low, threatening. “Turn this ship around and go back.”

Slitted eyes shifted to regard the largest human. “That is not possible. I forgive you your ignorance. We have left your world: we cannot go back.”

Pavesi fought to control her emotions. “Why not? I mean, we don’t expect you, or the A'jeii, or whoever is in charge of this ship to suddenly throw it in reverse, but can’t you settle on a wide arc and come back around to our sun? Or are there technological reasons preventing us from returning?”

“Not technological, no,” Vantolos conceded. “The reasons are—other.”

“You’re saying you can’t take us home, but it’s not a matter of technology?” Standing near Reed, Dev fed off the big man’s quiet strength. “Then what are the reasons?” He took a step toward the Olone. “If nothing else, we deserve to know what’s behind your refusal!”

An automaton the size of a large refrigerator and not entirely dissimilar in shape paused beside Vantolos. The two exchanged words before the mechanical moved off, intent on tasks elsewhere.

“You deserve nothing. You are here because you were here when we had to leave. You are entitled to nothing. Despite that, you will be well treated.” A pair of tentacles described curt patterns in the air. “You could just as easily be ejected out the nearest access port, you know. You would do better to reflect on the fact that we are willing to allow you to remain alive and cease your pointless questions. Nothing you can say or do will alter the reality in which you presently find yourselves.”

He indicated the departed automaton. “Situationals have been modified to accommodate you. Come with me. Or not, as you prefer.” Pivoting, he started back toward the corridor that had led them to the control center.