Birthright

“Then condition them,” said Bartol.

So Psychology took the potential pilots away for a month, and when they came back they had no objections whatsoever to the less tasteful physical aspects of symbiosis. And they still didn't like it.

They now object, said Psychology, to the fact that their health and well-being depends on the health and well-being of a totally alien being. They don't want to die simply because a Hunk gets sick. “Then teach them Hunk physiology and medicine,” said Bartol. So Biology took the pilots off for a crash course in Hunk physiology, and made sure they knew even more about keeping Hunks healthy than about themselves. And they still hated it.

Bartol finally called Jesser, the pilot most likely to make the first voyage, into his office and offered to discuss the problem with him.

Jesser entered the room, a chip on his shoulder and a baleful glare on his face. “I understand we still have a problem of sorts,” said Bartol, offering the pilot a drink, which Jesser refused.

“None that can't be solved by getting rid of the Hunks,” said Jesser. “I'm afraid that's totally out of the question,” said Bartol. “There is simply no practical way of making an intergalactic voyage without them. Besides, the Hunks aren't making any trouble for the Project; it's you and the other pilots.”

“Then get yourself some new pilots,” said Jesser. “Because I'm not tying into any Hunk, not for twenty-five years, not for twenty-five minutes.” “So I've been told,'’ said Bartol. “I don't suppose you'd like to explain your reasons to me. I know that you feel no physical revulsion to a life-giving symbiotic relationship, and I know you are every bit as capable of keeping a Hunk partner alive as I am. So what seems to be the problem?” “I'm just not going to do it,” said Jesser, softly but firmly. “Go ahead and fire me if you want. I can get work elsewhere.”

“If you were the only pilot with this attitude, I'd fire you in two seconds,” said Bartol. “But you're not, so I'm going to get to the bottom of this. What is your objection to having a Hunk keep you alive long enough to be the first sentient being to visit another galaxy?” “You don't count very well, do you?” said Jesser “Now what the hell is that supposed to mean?” said Bartol as Jesser turned and left the room. He consulted Psychology again, and shortly thereafter the answer came back to him. The pilots had no objection to letting the Hunks keep them alive. They had no objection to the threat of