Not us so much, since we'll be the hell out of the way. But this thing could affect world temperatures, tides, weather. I'm a little leery, I'll admit it.

He shook his head. I don't like it.

You probably had all your bad luck already, I said. I wouldn't lose any sleep ...

I guess you're right.

We finished our beers and I stood.

I've got to be running.

Can I buy you another?

No, thanks. I've got some work to do.

Well, I'll be seeing you.

Yes. Take it easy, and I left the lounge and moved back to the upper decks.

The moon spilled sufficient light to make shadows about me, and the evening was chilly enough for me to button my collar.

I watched the waves for a little while, then returned to my cabin.

I took a shower, listened to the late news, read for a time. Finally, I turned in and took the book to bed with me. After a while, I got drowsy, set the book on the bedside table, turned out the lamp, and let the ship rock me to sleep.

... Had to get a good night's sleep. After all, tomorrow was RUMOKO.

How long? A few hours, I guess. Then I was awakened by something.

My door was quietly unlocked, and I heard a light footfall.

I lay there, wide awake, with my eyes dosed, waiting.

I heard the door close, lock.

Then the light came on, and there was a piece of steel near to my head, and a hand was upon my shoulder.

Wake up, mister! someone said.

I pretended to do so, slowly.

There were two of them, and I blinked and rubbed my eyes, regarding the gun about twenty inches away from my head.

What the hell is this? I said.

No, said the man holding the metal. We ask. You answer. It is not the other way around.

I sat up, leaned back against the headboard.

Okay, I said. What do you want?

Who are you?