Leoh heaved himself up from the couch and hurried to seeA sleek ground car with Star Watch markings was ulled up at the building’s entrance. Official Acquatainian escort cars flanked it.
“He must be on his way up,” Leoh said. “Now try to relax and act…”
The simple-minded door computer announced in a tinny monotone, “Your expected guests are here.”
“Then open up,” Leoh commanded.
The door slid open to reveal a pair of sturdy, steeleyed Watchmen, a half-dozen Acquatainian honor guards, and—in their midst—the paunchy, jowly figure of Sir Harold Spencer, dressed in a shapeless gray jumpsuit.
The Star Watch Commander in Chief broke into one of his rare smiles. “Albert, you old scoundrel, how are you?”
Leoh rushed to the doorway and grasped Spencer’s outstretched hand. “Harold … I thought we’d never see each other again, in the flesh.”
“Considering the amount of flesh between the two of us, perhaps we’re violating some basic law of the universe by being in the same room together.”
They laughed and walked into the room. The door slid shut, leaving the guards outside. Hector stood transfixed beside the window wall.
“Harold, you look wonderful….”
“Nonsense. I’m a walking geriatrics experiment. But you, you ancient schemer, you must have transferred to another body since I saw you last.”
“No, merely careful living. …”
“Ahah. My downfall. Too many worries and too much wine. It must be pleasant to live the university life, free of care… .”
“Of course. Of course. Oh … Harold, I’d like to introduce Junior Lieutenant Hector.”