Birthright

The pilot did as Barnes instructed, and the Teroni returned to their home planet with the false knowledge

that theHaiti wouldn't be able to do too much damage until repairs were made. Before long, Hermione was once again in communication with the Ramorian spokesman. “The shipHaiti, out of Deluros VIII, race of Man, sends you greetings and felicitations.” “Our position remains unchanged,” was the terse reply. “We do not doubt your sincerity,” said Hermione. “But to prove our own goodwill toward all the people of Ramor, we have recently engaged a number of Teroni ships in the vicinity of the moons of your fifth planet.”

“And?” The radio didn't record it, but Hermione had a strong suspicion that there was a long gulp in there somewhere.

“And we achieved a stunning triumph for the people of Ramor. We flew no colors, so the glory of victory will be credited solely to your planetary government. We trust you will accept this as a further proof of our friendship, and—”

“Did you destroy them all?” came the imperative question. “Let me consult my figures,” said Hermione, smiling as she allowed the Ramorian spokesman to sweat for an extra minute. “No,” she said at last. “But twelve Teroni ships were totally demolished with absolutely no Ramorian casualties. Four ships did indeed escape, but we have doubtless secured your mining colonies for the foreseeable future.” “You're sure four of them escaped?”

“Yes,” said Hermione calmly. “We could have hunted them down, but how else would the tyrants of Teron know that they may no longer harass our Ramorian friends with impunity?” Something resembling a groan came across the radio. “And now, to further show our goodwill, theHaiti will return to Deluros VIII, and will never again trespass into Ramorian space until such time as you, our brethren, actively pursue a trading treaty. We bid you farewell, and earnestly wish that your Deity may smile upon you.” She cut communications, and was not surprised to note an immediate attempt to reopen them. “Wait!” came the Ramorian's frantic supplication. “You can't leave our system now!” “Why not?” asked Hermione innocently. “We realize that it will doubtless take you time to consider all the implications of our act of brotherhood. We are prepared to wait until you come to us freely and openly. It is not Man's way to apply force of any type.” “But what if the Teroni return? They still outnumber us!” “Why would they return?” asked Hermione sweetly. “Not only did we teach them new respect for the forces of Ramor, but they have never previously launched an all-out attack on you.”