Page 143 - The Perpetrations of Captain Kaga

Sorting the Sexes on Dulup

hyperdrive egress warning buzzer sounded, and he lowered himself
back into the acceleration couch.
After a routine landing, Captain Kaga emerged from the Eratosthenes
into the arid warmth of highland Dulup. He wore a Languex across
his chest and cradled the tubular bulk of the aminoscope in his arms.
He was met by a local PKU post employee, a thistle-pounder by the
look of his limbs.
“Welcome to Dulup,” said the gastrobrachioid. “I am Kurf the
night watchman. Usually I’m out foraging this time of day, but
sometimes I hang around here if my bellies are full. May I ask what
that device is you’re carrying?”
The speech Kaga heard translated via Languex emanated from
kazoo-like apertures beneath Kurf’s armpits, each a source of different
overtones and harmonics. Intake of food must occur somewhere,
mused Kaga; perhaps within the rippling folds of scaly flesh gathered
up on the creature’s topside.

“Welcome to Dulup,” said the gastrobrachioid.

“This is a scientific instrument,” replied the human.
“Is it covered under the trade agreement?”
“No, I’ve just brought it along for my own use while I’m here.”

141