The secret tunnels beneath the imperial palace were dimly lit, their walls damp with ancient moisture.
Betty's boots echoed with soft taps against the stone floor, her pace casual, almost like a walk through a museum.
Behind her, X'lat's movements were noiseless, mechanical, precise.
"So, do you feel sorry for Callex and its people? I mean, even if they manage to kill Queen Gorgon, there's nothing left for them. Their planet's done for."
Betty began, swinging her arms slightly.
X'lat didn't slow his stride.
"You're being sentimental again. As a Neuroxian, I do not feel. Emotions are inefficient. My directives are based on reason, not regret."
Betty chuckled, the sound echoing softly through the tunnel.
"You always say that. But you know, we're really different in that regard. I do what I do because I care… just not in the way people expect."
He glanced at her briefly.
"Then you're motivated by chaos."
