Arranging for Fred's Blood Transfusion

"I'm so glad that you can speak again, but what happened to your armour?" Checkers asked Astra, as the party made its way towards the Chamber of Animation.

"I don't know," Astra replied. This was an answer that had two merits: not only was it true, but there could be no reason for Belboz to object to it. She knew that she had to be careful not to say anything against his wishes from now on; in the short term, to ensure that Belboz would try to save Fred's life and then, assuming that he succeeded, to be true to her vow.

Then Belboz spoke, partly with the motive of forestalling the possibility of more awkward questions from Checkers about what had happened to Astra's armour. "As part of the procedure to save Lord Fred, he will lose a lot of blood. I shall have to carry out what I call a 'transfusion' to replace that blood. I shall need a lot of blood for that. My own blood will not be suitable - it is too old and thin. I am sure that Astra will be willing to provide some, but she cannot safely provide all that will be needed. Checkers, would you be willing to provide the rest? I should have to take a small sample of your blood first - a pin- prick would be enough - and test it for compatibility, for the blood of Gliders may be different from humans. My tests would not be conclusive, but in the absence of another readily available source of blood I fear that it is a risk that we shall have to take. If I can use your blood then, as will be the case with Astra, it will leave you feeling weak for a few hours, but there will be no permanent ill effects."

With the exception of saying that his own blood was too old and thin, Belboz had said nothing but the truth, for he had no need to lie. He was sure that Checkers would readily agree to provide her blood, given the bond that had formed between Fred and herself.

1. And so she did.
2. But to his surprise she seemed reluctant.

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