<strong>Lilith, In Conversation with Doctor Mephiston</strong><br/><br/>Lilith patted the good Doctor’s hand affectionately. “You’re far too kind,” Lilith said, smiling at him gratefully. “Thank you. It’s not my personal lack of sexual experience that concerns my research, though. I believe myself to be quite experienced in matters of coitus, at least in terms of its physical and mechanical requirements.”<br/><br/>The young scientist took a deep breath. “I’ve programmed all of the positions of the Karma Sutra into Omega’s computation engine, as well as his three predecessors.” She glanced over at the clockwork android, who stood nearby, ticking softly as his gears whirred and spun. “We’ve engaged in ninety-seven of those positions, to which I’ve achieved orgasm over one hundred and seventy-seven times. But while I understand the physics and the organic chemistry of the sexual acts, it lacks …<em>something</em>.” Lilith frowned at that. “And I can’t determine what that is.”<br/><br/>“I’ve been unable to determine the missing factor, apart from the only variable that can be introduced into the experimentation is a sexual partner of flesh and blood. Hence a need for living partners willing to copulate with me … and hence, my true reason for being here, despite my inexperience regarding social etiquette.”<br/><br/>Lilith looked around the Playground … and yes, indeed, the room was beginning to fill. She noticed her host, Lee Chang, sauntering around the room, introducing himself to his guests. A comely young slattern glided along at his side, an effusive ray of giddy delight in stark contrast to Lee Chang’s deliberate, controlled demeanor. There was something about the man that sent chills up Lilith’s spine … and wandering deliciously into other parts of his body as well.<br/><br/>She suddenly felt hot again.<br/><br/>“It’s an excellent idea, Doctor Bahl,” Lilith said to her companion, “going around to greet the other esteemed individuals who have joined us here this evening. But, um, I don’t know …” She swallowed, very hard. “I fear that I lack the skills and grace to make the appropriate introductions, or carry on with appropriate conversation. Would … would you care to join me, as my escort? I would be eternally grateful, and in your debt … and perhaps we can consummate this social partnership with some glasses champagne. Along with other, um, possible consummations in my chambers, later this evening.” Absently, she wiped a bead of sweat from her forehead … she hadn’t even realized that she’d been perspiring.<br/><br/>“But if you have other engagements, or would like to greet the others by yourself, I completely understand.”