Inwardly, Jessica grins to herself in a triumphant, boastful way as she wonders just how many concubines could have gotten away with what she had just done. Many would have considered her boldness a threat upon Empire, punishable by death or worse. It could have been easy to kill him if she wanted, as every sister has many weapons at their disposal — the Gom Jabbar being one of them, tipped with meta-cyanide poison, an instantaneous death capable of killing him before his nanobots have a chance to neutralize the toxin and slow enough to penetrate the imperial aura he believes keeps him safe. This weapon is subtle enough to pass through most security and body checks; she even has it with her now.

It would be easy to end him, but she knows another clone is waiting to take his place. Her purpose is to bring an end to the genetic dynasty by producing a biological heir, not by killing them or allowing another cloned replica of Cleon I sitting on the triple-throned dais.

"If Empire would prefer someone demure to listen to your woes and stroke every facet of your ego, I can be that woman, but I feel what Empire desires — more," there is a teasing quality to her voice as she allows herself an almost mischievous grin.

"Jessica, but Empire may call me whatever he pleases, and I might answer." She steps forward, gesturing with a hand towards the unoccupied end of the chaise. "May I sit, or would Empire prefer me to stand?"

She wonders what subjects would interest him most as she finds anything on Earth the most interesting, but that would give away too much. Jessica douts he wishes to hear about the various poisons she knows how to use and that not all doses are lethal — some even have pleasurable effects. Jessica is knowledgeable in many things, which would intimidate most men.

"I would prefer if Empire picks the subject, as it is easy to talk about what I know, and you may pick something I know little or nothing about."