The atmosphere of the launching pad rushed out, hurling the
shards of the airlock door into space. Kimball's ship then came through
the tunnel and exited, followed in short order by the five other ships.
They set a course for the Asteroid Belt and at top acceleration left
the pirates' asteroid behind them.
After Gene had fled out of earshot, Zimbardo turned to the few men who
were behind him. "I'm lifting off in the Tartarus in ten minutes. It's
the only ship left on the asteroid. Meet me at the great doors. Tell
everyone else you see." He swiveled and walked to the stairwell to go
up to his own rooms.
None of the men said anything to each other, but scattered, each going
to his own quarters.
Ten minutes later, arrayed in his spacesuit and carrying a few items,
Lurton Zimbardo stood at the great doors. Behind him was the asteroid
complex. In front was the manufacturing center and beyond that was the
launching pad where the Tartarus stood in solitary splendor. Only five
men had joined the pirate leader.
"So," said Zimbardo. "Only five of you. Five men left. Who are you?" He
lifted his light a little so he could see their faces. "Ah, Mr.
Gebbeth. I said before that I knew I could depend on you. I've always
known it. You are the pilot. And Mr. Slant. Mr. Stagnum.
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