"It took forty of them," the Warlock answered, "and a malfunctioning weapon to do it.  For some reason they didn't seem to want to kill me!  Maybe they figured they might need an exchange like this and took some of us alive.  You don't look too good, sir!"
     "I don't feel too good!"  Warlock Polley answered.  "Can you return to your duties?"
     "Yes sir!"  the woman answered. 
     "Then take charge," Warlock Polley snapped.  "Let's get these people looking like military again!"
     "Yes sir!"  the woman answered, snapped a quick salute, and stood waiting. 
     "Can't reply right now," Warlock Polley announced.  "Carry on your duties.  You'll be in charge 'til the medics are done with me.  Report to this gentleman here, The Emperor.  He'll tell you where to quarter and such."
     "Po Tak!"  The Emperor cried.  "One of his people hurried over.  "Assist this female Hume.  She is an officer of rank.  Help her gather her people.  For now make them comfortable in the throne room.  See that food and beverage is brought for them.  Warlock Polley, I insist we withdraw there, also.   There is a couch that should be big enough to lay you on."
     "Sounds good to me!"  the Warlock answered. 
      In a while the large throne room was full of Humes.  As one of them took off his helmet and sat down he remarked "Does anybody realize it's Sunday, and getting very close to Monday?  What would be the chances of a worship service, Commander?  Probably would lift everybody's morale."
     "We're in somebody else's shelter, Damon.  It would be inappropriate to perform our ceremonies here.  It will have to wait 'til we can gather at some undesignated place."
      The Emperor motioned Tampon over.  "What are they speaking of?"  he asked. 
     "Their military leaders," the Ambassador explained, "can also serve as their religious leaders.  The other Hume wants their weekly religious service."
     "Oh!"  The Emperor moaned.  "Warlock Polley, if your valiant warrior wishes to have his devotions, by all means, have them!  The throne room is considered sanctified ground.   Religious services of all our sects are often performed here.  I do not think yours will offend us!  If you are up to it please, proceed!"
     "My gracious thanks!" the Warlock answered.  "Well, we need a couple of candles, one on each side of me.  You got your harmonica, Rodrigez so we can have some music for the hymns?"
     "Yes sir!"  the warrior answered, getting into his pack. 
     Two of The Emperor's aides appeared with large candles.  The Hume nodded.  His people took them and positioned them. 
     "I haven't got my service book," the Hume remarked.  "I'm gonna have to do this by memory, so if I make any mistakes don't worry about it.  They'll be forgiven!  Harry?  Do the honors."  He motioned to the candles.

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