Author: Kayelle Allen

In this scene from Alitus, Pietas, the immortal king, prepares himself to receive his sister. As was his habit, he's purposefully kept her waiting. This scene gives a little hint as to why.

Le Persequor - lurk mode (invisible), Throne Room
Sumertsag 42, 4664 Tradestandard

Lord Pietas ap Lorectic mounted the dais of the cavernous throne room, and adjusted the hang of his white fur cape before seating himself. He fussed with its fall around his feet, and finally motioned to his android bodyguard. "The mirror."

Uurah angled the full length glass for him.

Placing his hands on the armrests of the throne, Pietas lifted his chin. The stately pose showed off his long platinum hair, and the satin turquoise lining of his cape. It also reflected the empty chamber with its simple throne.

"No." Pietas stood. "I don't like it. My sister won't be impressed."

"How can she not be, my lord? You are king of the immortals."

"You would think so, Uurah, but this is my twin sister we're talking about. Dessy's not surprised by anything I do. She's been at my side since before we were born. My sister can't even fathom the concept of my birth having occurred before hers being a sign of my superiority. She certainly won't take notice of my clothing or appearance."

"I cannot imagine anyone not being awed by you, Lord Pietas."

"You would say that, Uurah. You're my bodyguard."

Uurah propped the mirror and approached him. "I'm more than your bodyguard, my lord. I'm a sentient being capable of making independent decisions and forming opinions. You yourself gave me that freedom. I would tell you if I disagreed." Uurah inclined his head. "As I have done whenever justified."

"True. To my great annoyance. In fact, I've wished a few times I hadn't made you impossible for me to kill."

"Have you, my lord?" Unlike most androids, Uurah could defend himself. No human could stand against him, and most Sempervians would have difficulty doing so. As a sentient being, under the laws Pietas had written for his people, Uurah had the right to defend himself against anyone, even Pietas himself. Of all the androids in the Sempervian army, Uurah alone had the right to prevent Pietas from destroying him. "Why is that?"

"Because—" Pietas considered a moment. "I created you to appear human." He played with the hang of a sleeve. "You have a better memory than I do. Mine is eidetic, so I never forget, but there are some things I choose not to pay attention to, and you pay attention to all details. You're a good complement for me. Therefore, I need you. Besides, you know the rules of Peril, and you keep me honest when I'm playing. And you and my cat—" He chewed his lower lip, loathe to admit the last.

"The cat and I... what, my lord?"

"Are my only companions."

Uurah smiled. "My lord Pietas, I serve your pleasure. To be considered your companion is my highest honor." He made a bow.

"So you think this cape is all right?"

"Certainly not, my lord. You are never 'all right.' You are perfect."

"I so rarely see anyone." Pietas avoided looking into the dark area behind Uurah. "It's lonely on this ship." He heaved a sigh. "Never mind. Let's stay with this outfit. I've already tried on three, and she's been waiting for..." He paused. "How long?"

"My lord, who would mind waiting for you?"