All ears in the Throne Hall pricked up. Cameras rolled, and OX knew that every word would be analyzed and debated, with experts trying to determine any relevant information about the mysterious beetlelike machines.

Jorax spoke loudly in his buzzing voice. “Until such time as our forebears and creators, the Klikiss, return, we robots are the sole representatives of that ancient powerful civilization. We have contributed to the exploration of our ancient ruins and have participated in many difficult construction activities, because we are curious about your methods. We have never caused a human harm, nor have we ever given you reason to fear us.

“However, the recent attempt to disrupt my physical integrity has shed light on disturbing attitudes toward us. Klikiss robots are rare creations. We value our existence as much as humans do. Therefore, the Klikiss robots demand to be treated as a sovereign species.”

King Frederick sat back, taken by surprise. “That is not an unreasonable request, Jorax, but what… what has prompted this after so long? You, personally, have been here on Earth for several years, as I understand.”

The red optical sensors flashed. “Your cybernetic scientist, Doctor William Andeker, attempted to do grievous harm to my body. He wished to dismantle and study my components, without my permission. Such an assault could be construed as an act of war against the Klikiss civilization. I wish to ensure that such brutal attacks do not occur again.”

A gasp rippled throughout the hall. King Frederick flushed, raising both hands in a conciliatory gesture. “Now, let us not be hasty! That was an ill-advised and unauthorized action by a single person, we can all agree. The death of Dr. Andeker has given us all a sufficient reminder that we should leave you and your companions in peace.”

“Correct,” Jorax said. “Our internal systems contain dangerous automatic systems we cannot control. The Klikiss installed them within us, for their own reasons.” He scanned the Throne Hall briefly. “But we have observed how humans treat their robots. We have noted your apathy toward the sentient machines you call compies.”

Standing at the back of the Throne Hall, OX was fascinated. He watched every movement in the audience.

King Frederick tried to make an excuse. “Our compies are not as sophisticated as Klikiss robots, Jorax. They are certainly not your equals. They are machines, mobile devices with implanted information systems, constructed solely for our convenience. They are not… life forms.”

“That is a matter to be debated at another time,” Jorax said. “Do not make the error of viewing Klikiss robots as disposable mechanical puppets like your compies. We are individuals, with life spans of millennia. No human has a right to command us—or vivisect us.”