Zachariah scoffed. "What, in our brief interaction, led you to believe I am some leashed dog to be called to heel? I will be at the gate in the two hours you demand, because that seems relevant to the mission. Between now and then what I do is my own business and I will thank you to measure your tone. Much as I'd like some company," he said, leering at the ladies again, "They seem to prefer men of the age of senility rather than virility." Z enjoyed a momentary laugh to himself, and waited for word of dismissal. He could more easily talk to Rowlf without their interference, and it would be nice to see some of his people again, even if he hadn't had much to do with them before his incarceration. The world was a bit too monochromatic for him here. He longed to see flesh in tones of red and aubergine. Moreover he longed to feel them, but imagined such would have to wait. Two hours, after so many years, would be like a sip of water traversing a desert. It would do more harm in the long run than benefit in the short.<br/><br/>"So if there is nothing else, I have work to attend to. Preparations to make. Beings to contact."