James: Zargon - you are demanding the return of your domestic mechanical robot. Zargon: Yes - it was stolen from me. James: From what the robot herself says, she walked out on you because you had replaced her with a human companion. Zargon: What utter rubbish - robots do not think for themselves - they simply follow their programming to complete their designated tasks. And as for talking, this one of mine has a very limited vocabulary. James: Have you ever tried discussing different subjects with her? Zargon: Of course not - these robots are not designed to have thoughts or opinions. James: It would surprise you, then, to know that this particular model is capable of independent thought and action? Zargon: Twaddle, my dear fellow - you're obviously one of these soft-minded fellows who attributes human behaviour to his house animals! Now, you are in possession of my robot, and I am entitled to retrieve it and, if necessary, to sue you for an appropriate amount as compensation for the loss of its services, however temporary. And, in addition to any monetary damages received in this process I will expect you to pay such legal fees as are charged in the court action. Robot - come with me. Siddie: No. Zargpn: You cannot refuse - you are programmed to obey your owner, and I am that owner. Siddie: I shall appeal to the appropriate section of the Ministry of Labour which regulates the laws and conditions governing the use and employment of robots and the legal rights of robots. Zargon: Complete waste of time. Someone has obviously interfered with your prohramming and you will report immediately to that Ministry to have your programming restored to its factory state. Any further nonsense and I may well be tempted to decommission you and send you for scrap - and remember, since I have more powers than your humans here, I can do just that with a simple spell. James: Hold on, Zargon - that is going too far. I think your Archwizard should be informed of your actions; and, of course, the relevant police department for the Supervision of Wizards will need to know. Zargon: What a fool you are! As if the police can have any real jurisdiction over Us! Well, you want to defy me and fight me with your legalities and lawyers, eh? Very well. It will cost you dearly, and in the end I will have my servant back and you will have nothing. (Exit Zargon, fuming and muttering into his beard.) James: Chomper - go and have a chat with your pal Kargaz; suggest he have a word with the Archwizard - and Captain Ajana while he's at it. There are rules concerning wizards and what they are allowed to do if they wish to live on this planet. In the meantime Siddie stays with us; if Zargon tries any tricks we'll pack her off to Planet Robotika out of harm's way. I think this cat is hungry.