Metafire

"OK. I can do that." Steven was happy to do this. He liked being told to do a job. He rationalized that this would also give him time for a thorough search of the entire colony.

Frank then proceeded to loosen the nylon ties. He didn't cut any. He would use them again to tie Steven up when it was time for sleep. George told everybody that Steven was being released and would have the run of the colony. Several of the colonists checked their pockets to make sure they knew where their defensive devices were. No one suspected that Steven's FBI badge was a weapon.

Within an hour of being free, Steven found himself with Randy. He whispered, "I know who you are, Randy."

Randy was taken aback. He looked about and determined that nobody was watching them. From a distance he saw that Erisa was glancing toward them, across Janet's back. Randy whispered back, making sure that Erisa saw that he was whispering, "What do you propose?"

"I can tell you are still on our side. I have a weapon. I can take one of these bastards hostage. I propose to seize control. Are you with me? Will you take the chance?" Steven was trying to be as clear as possible.