Concepts Computer presented
visual displays accompanied by a gently modulated
audio. The analysis was incisive, the coverage
comprehensive. At its conclusion, the President
scanned the faces of his Ministers and the
Commander of the Space Forces.

"Comments?"

Scores of questions probed and tested the
computer's logic and conclusions. Questions became
observations, which, following discussion, became
revisions that, were instantly extended to
corollaries. Often, objectives and programs
were adjusted. Finally, it was done -- for the
time being.

Rising from his seat, the President's eyes took
in his grim advisors. Speaking softly, he passed
decisions on several recommendations to his
Ministers, Admiral Selvin, and into the Computer.
Done, they sat silently for several moments,
weighing the decisions' potential effects.

Rising and making his way toward the doorway,
Camari motioned to the Minister of Intelligence.
"I've read your report on our assets in the Outer
Region, Allen. I have a special task for your
Ministry."

He motioned the Minister for Intelligence to join
him. They passed through and the door closed
silently.

Chapter THREE

The Watch Commander drew a hand weapon from the
rack, adjusted the power to low stun, and checked
the safety. He slipped the sidearm into the sheath
at his waist and scanned the monitors displaying
his areas of jurisdiction.

The agri-ecol bays and industrial shops of the
Guardian Station were orderly and busy. The
officer's fingers ranged the console's keys.
Aud-viz transmissions from passageways, wardrooms,
and work and recreation areas slipped across the
screens in rapid succession. Inmates and guards
moved about, operated equipment, or worked at
their benches, each, in his or her own way, putting
in their time on the station's business.

A keystroke brought up the eight people boarding
the Station through the lower air lock. Two were
station guards, their weapons sheathed but
retainer clips disengaged for instant withdrawal.

A slight adjustment brought into sharp focus the
closed features of the three men and three women
in dun-colored coveralls, under escort. He studied
their faces for a moment and turned away. The
bank of screens shut down as he stepped across
the doorway of the cubicle that served him as both
command post and sleeping quarters. He strode
briskly toward a hatch at the far end of the
passageway.

The lead guard, who had appe