The Waifs of Trove — Robert A. Erickson

Captain Rod Striker of the Starship Curacao rescues the alien survivors of an apparent accident in space only to become embroiled in an interstellar treasure hunt that could destroy the Federated Worlds alliance.“We're talking about a savage, Tilos. Maybe it found a way to get out of the Transporter Room. Did you think of that? It might be tearing down doors to get here right now.”Tilos recognized a reckless rage in his superior's eyes that he had not seen before. There was fear and perhaps a grudging respect for the alien beast that had killed four of their number and wounded several others without as much as a scratch in return. The disruptors had only angered it.“Security is scanning the interior of the ship Captain,” Tilos replied. “I don't believe the creature is gone, but there is no sign of it.”“Pokka,” Krovas said. He settled back into his chair and rotated to face the forward view screen. “It's here.” The vision and the thought persisted as he considered his next priority. “Helm, plot a course away from here in a spiral pattern. See if you can pick up the ion trail left by the Federation ship. I want it!” As his right fist pounded the arm of the command chair, pain lanced through his arm. Examining the bleeding hand, Krovas grinned wickedly. “Captain Rod Striker is next to die.”