Personal Log 60: Conversation, 27th September, 3301
29 Sep 2016Jemine Caesar
27th September, 3301Olivas City starport, LHS 3505
As usual, Rudolphus' female clone slave answered the comms, and presently her master spoke. Was it my imagination, or did Rudolphus sound a little different for some reason?
*****
"Greetings Jem. How are you?"
"Hello Rudolphus. I am well, thank you. Your friend at Phra Mool was... interesting company."
"Did Barry behave good when you did meet him?"
"Yes. Yes he did. He was... a perfect gentleman."
"Glad to hear. If he did not, I need to talk with him."
"He speaks very highly of you. Did the, er, birthday present arrive safely?"
"Yes. It was a gift I always wanted to have."
"And may I know what it was?"
"A dataslate. With the newest apps on it."
"But surely you could have found a dataslate anywhere in the Empire?"
"Well, yes. But this one was a special one I wanted."
"Yes. It must have been very special indeed, to have to be carried in a cargo canister."
"Yes. I have other news for you, more interesting. I am now Elite as a trader."
"That's wonderful, Rudolphus. You must have been very successful."
"Yes. I have been doing much work for mine patron."
"Of course. And how is Ms Torval? Have you seen her lately?"
"Last week. She did give a party because we are doing better now."
"That's nice. It won't be long before the new Emperor is chosen. Do you have a favourite?"
"No. I'm only a count. The Emperor is something for the senators to decide."
"Yes, Barry said the same sort of thing. But you must have an opinion, surely?"
"Mine opinion does not matter. It will when I become king."
"King? That is a high ambition!"
"Well, it is important to strive for something in life. Do you still have your Adder?"
"No, I bought a Cobra."
"That is a good ship. Good storage and hardpoints."
"I had her painted primrose yellow. It's my favourite colour."
"I though your favourite colour was red?"
"Well, perhaps I changed my mind. It's a woman's prerogative, Rudolphus."
"Yes. Like when you changed your mind about your feelings for me."
"Oh, Rudolphus!"
"Well, I wish you good night. But I'm sure your friend will take care of that."
"I'm alone at the moment. Sam is many light years away."
"He is closer than that in your heart."
"Well, yes, he is."
"I'm glad for you, Jem. The life I had to offer you would not have made you happy."
"Thank you. I do not think I would have made a good Imperial wife."
"No. You are too curious for that."
" But... I do have a soft spot for you, you know."
"That make me smile. Well wishes, Jem."
"Take care, Rudolphus."
*****
Why did I always feel so guilty after speaking to that man?