Birthright

“I have as much right here as you do,” said Breece. “Perhaps more.”

“I do not deny this,” said Milnor. “I only wish it known that I am totally nonpolitical, and am interested only in my work. If my presence here will offend you, I can easily move my base of operations elsewhere until such time as you leave.”

“That won't be necessary,” said Breece, feeling a sudden rush of guilt. “I'm noncombative. In fact, it appears we are members of the same profession.” “I had hoped as much,” said the Rinn. “Still, with no intention of offending you, I felt it best to make sure, though certainly no one but another archaeologist would have any reason for being here.” “Oh, I don't know,” said Breece. “It seems like a lovely place to live.” “I would think, based on my knowledge of Man and supported by my findings on Earth, that you would crave the community of your fellow beings.” “Most Men would,” agreed Breece.

“But not yourself?”

“No. I'm different.”

The Rinn's mouth curved in its equivalent of a smile, then straightened suddenly. “If you crave solitude...” “Your presence doesn't upset me, if that's what you're driving at,” said Breece. “In fact, I think I'd find exchanging ideas with an archaeologist of a different race most stimulating.” “Excellent,” said Milnor with another smile. “Would it offend you if I were to consume some food first? My metabolism is such that I must feed at least five or six times a day.” “I wonder that you have time for your work,” said Breece. “I never sleep,” said the Rinn. “May I summon one of my robots?"’ “Of course,” said Breece, and a moment later a robot, almost indistinguishable from the Rinn, approached with a small container. “It is only vegetation,” said Milnor. “However, if the sight of my eating it will affect you adversely, I can withdraw.”

“It's not necessary,” said Breece. As Milnor devoured a number of plants and grasses, Breece's eyes examined the robot. “That's a fabulous machine,” she said at last. “It's amazing how much progress has been made in the science of robotics.”

“Indeed,” agreed Milnor. “And yet, it was a science devised by Man. Why is it that your race made only minimal use of it?”

“We preferred to do things ourselves,” said Breece. “True.” Milnor nodded. “Man never gave quarter, but he never asked for it either. A fascinating race.”