The HANA-5 automaton telescoped its neck so that its spherical eye could see better. "I'd like to speak to a human, please."

The chorus giggled. "They're all indisposed at the moment," they sang, barely holding back a snicker. "But if you'd like to wait, I'm sure they would be happy to help."

The robot backed away. "I cannot wait," it said. "My master is dying. He needs me to return immediately."

"Of course he does," sang the voices as the gate parted. "Come on in. Our ...