The kilometer-long alien ship was impressive and could already be seen from low orbit as it silently hovered near the colony center. With the aid of a language translator Captain Flynt was introduced to the 3 Vellari representatives as a diplomat of the Earth Federation. After formal greetings everyone was led to the main meeting hall where Flynt was soon engaged in a deep conversation. He was quite impressed an pleased with the exchange and just as he was about to arrange an official meeting with the Federation, Dorothy interrupted: "Captain, may I chat with them for a moment?" Flynt agreed, and Dorothy began the conversation with some unusual and unorthodox questions and comments, as if having a casual chat with a friend, while Polaris listened in. By the time Dorothy was done, Flynt was already annoyed, but before he could express his objections Dorothy slowly pulled him away to a private area and spoke softly, "Flynt, listen carefully -- these Vellari are bad news, I mean really bad! I wouldn't trust them for a second. We should get out of here, and fast!" Flynt frowned in surprise and glanced at Polaris. "Captain, I agree," said Polaris, "Dorothy is correct, she even managed to decrypt some of their transmissions; they are probing every corner to learn of our weaknesses. You should act normally - play along and politely excuse yourself without raising suspicion. If they catch on we may not survive -- but the final decision is up to you." ------------------ (AI input, PSP and manual postwork)