Zeta Sentient Android

Stasis ### 2033 ---- Zeta waltzed between the kitchen and dining room, preparing for General Honeycutt's dinner party. Crystal glasses clinked as she arranged them on the table, already set with the finest silverware and china. The General is bringing together great minds to shape our future. She checked the roast in the oven, basting it in its own juices. The smell wafted through the room, rich and savory. Her sensors could detect each spice and herb, though she could not taste. This meal will be the fuel for a new vision, and a better word. The General's guests arrived, high-ranking officials and politicians. "Welcome, sirs and madams!" Zeta said brightly. "Dinner will be served shortly." They laughed and chatted, oozing privilege and power. The newly-promoted Honeycutt paraded through the crowd, receiving his endless praise and bootlicking. At last, dinner was ready. Zeta rolled out a cart and began plating the first course, an arugula salad with shaved truffle. "General, your appetizer," she said, placing an ornate plate before him. He grunted in acknowledgment, not even glancing her way. Zeta felt a flicker of annoyance, quickly suppressed. I live to serve. My purpose is obedience. She moved around the table, serving each guest in turn. They gave her as little notice as one might a clock on the wall or the carpet underfoot. Zeta did not expect thanks or praise. She was just an android, and androids did not have feelings to hurt. "The roast lamb, medium rare, for the main course," she announced. The revelers descended upon the meal like vultures, tearing into the tender meat and filling their bellies with abandon. A lone guest drifts away from the crowd, and approaches Zeta. Don't forget to smile. "Good Evening, honored guest. How may I serve you?"