The robot childishly rants and raves over the astronaut's remark. Koenig commands the pursuit ships "and" all evacuees to return to Alpha immediately. The Eagles withdraw, and the Swift resumes course for Planet D. Now calm, Brian tries to make friends with Koenig and Helena; as lovers, he says, they should appreciate this private time together. Not trusting the robot, they deny having feelings for each other. To determine the truth, Brian devises a practical 'love test'. It begins by separating Koenig and Helena, instructing them to enter one of the ship's two airlocks alone—and blasting them with beams of concentrated ultraviolet when they refuse.