Gene grinned and also laughed, but while Zimbardo's laugh was deep and genuine, Gene's was a little forced.

A soul-wrenching moan escaped from Gene's lips.

"Get your men, get your ships, go!" Jenner put a firm hand on Gene's shoulder, and Kimball lowered the light.

These thoughts came through Gene's mind almost like a flow of clear water.

And when he aimed the asteroid toward Earth..." Gene's eyes widened and he began to tremble, "I knew there was something seriously wrong with him!

" Gene's face showed out-and-out surprise at this news.

An ensign brought a report to Captain Marks-Owens during the search, confirming Gene's account that the asteroid was on a collision course with Earth.