our job is to help backward worlds to advance their civilization so it can have all the necessary amenities. For that very reason we call ourselves the Cosmic Crusaders. Here we have a planet definitely in need of an uplift, yet the first thing we do is dash away from it on the off-chance of tackling a planet about which we know precisely nothing. And on top of that, poor Mexone is left with the unenviable task of trying to explain thermodynamic equilibrium to the governing body. To say nothing of attempting to explain why we came here and what our object is.”
The Amazon and Abna looked at each other. This was the first time in all their experience they had ever found Viona disinclined to leap into a new adventure.
“Of course,” Viona added, rising, “there might be a way round it. I could stay here and impart such scientific knowledge as I possess, and you and father could go ahead to this mystery world. You don’t really need me as well. You’re quite capable of looking after yourselves.”
“That is possible,” Abna admitted dryly; then he, too, got to his feet, caught at Viona’s arm, and drew her away to a quiet corner of the room.
“I’m afraid you’re not doing it very well, Viona.” Abna said, smiling. “I could read your mind and find out the truth, but I never invade the sanctity of thought unless I’m compelled. It wouldn’t be because of Mexone that you prefer to stay behind, would it?”
“Of course not!” Viona’s sapphire-blue eyes had a hint of resentment in them, but under her father’s steady look the light died out of them. “That is.… Well, he’s rather nice.”
“Very. Quite a good-looking young man, but his intelligence rating is infinitely below yours, my dear—”
“All the better. You like being top dog. Well, so do I. Here’s a young man I really like, and he hasn’t enough knowledge to dictate anything. Not like Sefner Quorne, for instance.”
“I see.” Abna gave his slow, tolerant smile. “You haven’t had much fun in your associations with the opposite sex so far, have you?”
“I can teach these people a good deal,” Viona added.
“And Mexone too, maybe,” Abna murmured; then he led the way back to the group and raised his voice. “I’ve just been talking things over with Viona, my friends, and I think it as well that she stays with you.”
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