We Are Legion (We Are Bob)

Book 3: Chapter 69: Ending

Book 3: Chapter 69: Ending

Bob

May 2233

Delta Eridani

I set the waterskin down and tied the pergola walls open. Outside, another gorgeous day on Eden was dawning. Bird-like things sang, and squirrel-like things chewed out anyone and everyone for the crime of existing.

I picked up the skin and went over to sit by Archimedes. “Wake up buddy. I brought fresh water.”

He hadn’t woken up yet. I tried to let Archimedes sleep as long as possible, to keep up his strength. I reached over to nudge him, and...

Nothing.

No breathing sounds. No pulse.

I could hear a low whining sound. It took me a second to realize it was coming from me. A hand on my shoulder. Belinda.

When we were done, I knelt at his grave for a while longer. Afterward, I went to his tent, where Belinda and Buster were sitting. Belinda offered me some jerky, and we ate silently.

When we were done, Buster said, “You can have his things, if you want. You’ve been his best friend for years.”

I responded with a brief smile, about all I could manage. “Thanks, Buster, but I think I’ll be going. Archimedes was all that was holding me here.”

Buster gazed at me in a perplexed silence for a few moments. Then he said, diffidently, “Robert? You’re theBawbe, aren’t you?”

“Yes, Buster, I am.” I shrugged. “And with Archimedes gone, well...”

“Will we be okay?”

I nodded. “Yes, you will. You’ve gotten control of your environment, now. You’ll show the world who’s boss. And in some huge number of hands of years, your children’s children’s children will come find me and mine.” rΆŊȱꞖЕS

I stood. “Goodbye, Buster. Belinda. Live long and prosper.”

And without looking back, I walked out of the village to the waiting cargo drone.