The explosion scared the hell out of the horses and most of the men. Furthermore, the rocks thrown by the grenade as shrapnel injured nine of the cowb...ys, five so much that they were put out of the fight. Seven of the horses were also hit by the rocks, but none of their wounds were serious enough to incapacitate them, though they were of little use as they jumped and ran around in a panic.The bunching was broken up by the time Bolivar threw a second hand grenade, so not as much damage was done. If it is a bomb . . ." Allain let that one slide. The skipper knew what that meant. Someone, perhaps more than just one someone, would have to get the bomb out of there, no matter what the cost. What had Mr. Spock said in that old Star Trek movie about the good of the many? Allain could not remember, but he understood the bottom line.The Captain handed over the key he wore around his neck. "Who goes in?"Allain shrugged. "My plant, skipper. That makes it my job. Besides, I am as close. "Gronnus is truly a fool. I was very tempted to end his life as he seemed to wish it just moments ago. It would have been a small loss."Q'yros looked thoughtful. "I believe you were wise in letting him live. He is truly your only contact in the Overlords' camp."The Emperor sneered. "Do not remind me of that. I wish it were otherwise." So, were you indeed baiting him?" I was. Consider it a test of his loyalty." So you know of the new conspiratorial elements already?" There are some I chose not. And who really cared what the neighbors thought? If those stupid bitches knew anything about how to please a man, none of them would try to look at her, would they? Besides, she knew who owned her, heart and soul, and if she wanted to show off for him, that was good… wasn’t it? Except… For some reason… It displeased him. No, no… be fair. It didn’t displease him, it made him uncomfortable. This was quite confusing. After all, he didn’t mind when she dressed up.