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There was only one thing wrong.
s.e.xless though it was, the Zark must possess the characteristics of life, since it was obviously alive. And those characteristics were unchanging throughout the known universe. The four vital criteria defined centuries ago were still as good today as they were then--growth, metabolism, irritability--and _reproduction_. Despite its lack of s.e.x, the Zark must be capable of producing others of its kind, and while he didn't mind supporting one fellow traveler, he was d.a.m.ned if he'd support a whole family of them.
"That need never bother you," the Zark interrupted. "As an individual, I am very long-lived and seldom reproduce. I can, of course, but the process is quite involved--actually it involves making a twin out of myself--and it is not necessary. Besides, there cannot be two Zarks in one host. My offspring would have to seek another."
"And do they have your powers?"
"Of course. They would know all I know, for a Zark's memory is not concentrated in specialized tissue like your brain."
A light began to dawn in Albert's mind. Maybe this was the answer to the corporate conscience he had been wis.h.i.+ng for so wistfully on Antar.
"Does it bother you to reproduce?" he asked.
"It is annoying, but not painful--nor would it be too difficult after a pattern was set in my cells. But why do you ask this?"
"The thought just occurred to me that there are quite a few people who could use a Zark. A few of the more honest folks would improve this Confederation's moral tone if they had the power--and certainly psi powers in law enforcement would be unbeatable."
"Then you would want me to reproduce?"
"It might be a good idea if we can find men who are worthy of Zarks. I could check them with my telepathy and perhaps we might--"
"Let me warn you," the Zark interjected. "While this all sounds very fine, there are difficulties, even with a host as large as yourself. I shall need more energy than your body has available in order to duplicate myself. It will be hard for you to do what must be done."
"And what is that?"
"Eat," the Zark said, "great quant.i.ties of high energy foods." It shuddered at the thought of Albert overloading his digestive tract any more than he had been doing the past week.
But Albert's reaction went to prove that while their relations.h.i.+p was physically close, mentally they were still far apart. Albert, the Zark noted in astonishment, didn't regard it as an ordeal at all.
