I nod, trying to absorb the intricate caste system that governs interactions between species. “And humans?”
“Earth is considered a developing world with limited interstellar contact and restricted technology access.”
“That's not what I asked.”
“Technically, humans are classified as sentient, but in practice...” She taps the display, bringing up a different screen. “There are distinctions. Employees like yourself are recognized as fully sentient beings at LevelFour with legal protections. You have rights, contracts, and compensation.”
“And the others?” I think of the man who silently mouthed “help” as he was paraded in the lobby at the Sapien Spectacle.
“Companions have a different classification. Their status is more complex.”
“You mean they're considered property.”
“The IGC has conflicting laws about humanity, and legal contradictions create grey areas.”
“It's slavery,” I say.
“It's more complicated than that,” Lira counters. “And you are here because the Sovereigns believe humans are equal.”
“How can they when they host events like the Sapien Spectacle?”
“Because they can’t change society overnight. But they quietly have been the forerunners of change in their actions.”
I give her a look of disbelief.
“Not only do they hire humans for work in the galaxy, but they openly hire women like me. You know, most companies would only allow women to work on-planet, which is limiting. It’s tradition. The galaxy is a matriarchy run galactically by patriarchal men, and most people are ready for a change. So, when the Sovereigns approached me to work here, I was surprised, but also encouraged and excited by the opportunity. Trust me, Eve, the galaxy is changing. It may not look like it on the surface, but slowly it is.”
I don’t know what to say because I don’t know enough about the situation of women working off-planet and galactic politics.
When I don’t reply, Lira says,“These are complicated issues, and the conversation requires more time than we have now. If you don’t mind, let’s discuss it in depth later.”
“Thank you.”
She gives me a nod. “Now, back to your training. Imperials always receive full protocol. Bow from the waist, eyes lowered, and use formal titles. Never initiate conversation. Reima Two citizens, like myself, require a head incline and formal address, but eye contact is permitted after the initial greeting.”
“And the Sovereigns?”
“The Sovereign Directors are special cases. Though they're naturalized Reima Two citizens, they were born Imperial. They've maintained many Imperial customs while adapting to our culture.” Her voice softens with something approaching reverence. “It's part of why they're so fascinating to both Reima Two citizens and Imperials.”
“What do you mean?”
Lira looks around and then says quietly, “The Imperial twin tradition, that they often share the same woman as a lover, and when they marry they will only marry one woman.”
“Interesting,” I say, wondering if that borders on incest or if it’s okay because the men are rich and handsome.
“It’s not a tradition we hold on Reima Two, but still, they have been engaged a few times to some high-profile women.”
“But?” I ask, enjoying the gossip.
“The women have always broken it off for mysterious reasons.”
“Incest?” I can’t help but ask.
She gives me a funny look. “No, they’re men, so it can’t be incest because they could never produce children. Most people assume it’s because of Sovereign Lorian. His time with the Umbral Cohort changed him. It’s rumored his sexual appetites don't align with traditional Reima Two values.”
Before I can ask for clarification, the reception desk gives us a discrete notification. An approaching guest.
Lira straightens, her demeanor shifting instantly to professional deference. “Imperial approaching. Follow my lead.”
