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Story: Accounting for Taste

“Well, if you are able to go to the centre tomorrow, do let me know.I would hate to miss it.”

“Yes, Overlord.”Reem nodded.“Am I dismissed?”

“You are dismissed, Comptroller.”

She turned and walked back to the lift, bemused at what had just occurred.She didn’t mind him consuming her output, but she was practical.They weren’t a good fit.

Chapter Four

Reem sat on the shuttlewith her small bag stowed next to her as they flew skyward toward the warship.The crew had told her that the overlord had sent some items for her to travel with, but they would be delivered to her rooms on the warship.She blinked at the plural but sat where she needed to sit and went where she was directed to go.

The wonder of space flight was lost on her.She just wanted to get to Aten to visit her cousin.

The warship was huge and sleek.It was a merchant vessel loaded to defend whatever it carried.Reem let her brain go through the specifications as they docked, and she was asked to get her bag and follow a crewmember.

The sober-looking female said, “You are unusual for one of your species.”

“I will concede as much.”

“Zell’s consort is very enthusiastic and extremely graceful.”

“Those are desirable attributes for a consort.”

“You don’t find it unpalatable?”

Reem sighed.“As I am not required to consume it, my palate is not the one to make that judgment.If the Hmrain is not a fan, then it is up to him to choose a new consort.”

“His previous consort was Zellic, and she was quiet and contained.”

Reem nodded.“As are most Zellic.Now, how comfortable was the Overseer with her?Was he stronger or just surviving?Was he feasting or simply fed?”

The crewwoman thought.“I suppose he was fed.He did not advance according to our records.”

“She gave him enough for maintenance.That would cause a regression.I have studied Hmrain as they are fascinating, and they require steady input to advance to their possible limits.”

“Oh.Zell does radiate power now.”