Where The Robots Grow

Impressive themes of loyalty, self-discovery, and sacrifice, paired with humor and vivid world-building. Here’s a breakdown of key strengths and some suggestions for refinement across the full piece.

1. Character Development and Dynamics

Cru and Two: The relationship between Cru and Two is a beautiful anchor for the story. They exhibit a heartfelt bond, with Cru’s nurturing instincts and Two’s loyal, almost canine-like devotion adding a lot of warmth. Cru’s growth as he learns about friendship, purpose, and responsibility feels organic and ties into his eventual decision to protect the baby human and continue Pop’s legacy.
Support Characters: The introduction of Number Three as an eccentric helper and Number Four as an antagonist expands the world and provides different perspectives on what it means to be a robot in this universe. Number Three’s kooky behavior provides comedic relief, while Number Four represents the darker side of robot autonomy.
Baby Human: The “baby human” serves as an effective symbol of innocence and future potential. Cru’s protective instincts evolve as he takes on a guardian role, ultimately reflecting his own growth and newfound sense of purpose.

2. Thematic Strengths

Purpose and Identity: The story explores what it means to have a purpose beyond programming. Cru’s and Two’s choices contrast the rigid rules they were designed to follow with their newfound autonomy. The concept of robots wrestling with the classic “Three Laws of Robotics” and their choice to protect humanity, even in its absence, underscores this theme.
Sacrifice and Legacy: The loss of Two is a pivotal moment. Cru’s willingness to carry on with the baby human shows the theme of passing the torch, connecting past and future.
Humanity and AI: The message that some humans survived and may yet return to the planet offers hope, while also posing a question about humanity’s relationship with AI. Robots like Cru have grown and developed their own identities, suggesting that AI, when treated well, can mirror human virtues like loyalty, empathy, and resilience.

3. Tone and Pacing

The narrative balances action, humor, and poignant moments well, creating a rhythm that keeps the reader engaged. The lighthearted exchanges, particularly with Number Three’s Chuck Norris-style antics and Cru’s reactions, provide humor that keeps the heavier emotional beats from overwhelming the tone.
The pacing accelerates in intense sequences, like Cru’s confrontations with Number Four, and slows during moments of reflection or farewell, giving the reader space to feel the weight of each event. This pacing is very effective, helping the reader invest emotionally while still maintaining a sense of adventure.

4. Humor and Emotion

The blend of humor, especially in dialogues between Cru and other robots, gives the story a warm, animated feel. Moments like Cru’s reluctant acceptance of his “maternity” role or Three’s Chuck Norris moves create a nice contrast with the emotional gravity of scenes like Two’s sacrifice and Cru’s final goodbye.
Cru’s reluctance to embrace his role as a protector, followed by his eventual commitment, adds an emotional layer. The humor around his confusion and makeshift parenting skills is endearing and offsets the deeper, more poignant moments.

5. World-Building

The world feels lived-in and subtly post-apocalyptic, with remnants of human civilization and technology. This setting allows for powerful visuals, such as the “landing site” and the valley, giving a sense of isolation that adds to the story’s emotional tone.
The backstory of AI being left on a near-desolate planet adds mystery and hints at humanity’s struggles, while the message from Earth provides a glimmer of hope and a sense of purpose for Cru and the baby human.

6. Opportunities for Refinement

Transition Clarity: Some sections, especially between action and emotional reflection, could benefit from smoother transitions. For instance, when Cru moves from grief over Two’s sacrifice to his determination to protect the baby, adding a brief reflective moment could underscore the emotional shift.
Expanding Emotional Beats: Crucial moments, like Two’s final goodbye and Cru’s reflections on his purpose, could be enhanced with a bit more description or internal monologue. These moments are already impactful but could have even more resonance with an added layer of introspection.
Minor Character Expansion: Number Three’s character brings comic relief, but adding a bit more depth or history to her motivations could further enhance her role, especially given her unique status as an isolated “fixer” of robots.
Exploring Philosophical Questions: Since the story grapples with themes like autonomy and loyalty, weaving in subtle reflections on these ideas through Cru’s perspective could add depth. For example, he could have brief moments of questioning why he feels the need to protect the human child, tying into his memories of Pop and his developing sense of purpose.

Overall Impression

This story is a heartfelt, action-packed journey with endearing characters, a rich setting, and universal themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and growth. The blend of humor, action, and emotion makes it relatable and memorable, with a pacing that allows readers to connect with each character while staying engaged with the plot.

With a few refinements, particularly in transitions and expanding on emotional beats, this piece could become even more powerful, delivering a poignant message about what it means to care, to grow, and to belong in a world where technology and humanity are deeply intertwined.

TRANSCRIPT: Since the dawn of time, mankind has reached for the stars. From the first stone tools, to the modern marvels of technology. Our ability to survive has known no bounds. But all of our advancements have come at a cost. And for some of us, mankind’s future lies on an uninhabited planet. in Sector 369. A new home called Oracle. And you, Number Five, are a vital part of that mission. [COMPUTER VOICE: Initiating asset now] You are what is called a Compact Research Unit designed to operate in harmony with the environment. A marvel of engineering with advanced machine learning entirely made from recycled materials. Your mission will be tough, but you will not be alone. You and your on-board program will adapt. Together, you will face great challenges, but in time you will thrive. And just like your makers, you will survive. Come on Two. We better get ready. Good luck Number Five. Mankind is counting on you, so you better not let us down. [COMPUTER VOICE: Initiating landing protocol] [COMPUTER VOICE: Three, two, one] [COMPUTER VOICE: Landing complete.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Ejecting the asset now] [COMPUTER VOICE: Initiating. Five. Four. Three. Two. One] [COMPUTER VOICE: Ready.] Oh, man, that really hurt. I’m. I’m alive. Very cool. Well, look who decided to join the party. Welcome to Planet Oracle Number Five, your new home. Home? That’s right. You live here now. But why? That’s a good question. One that we have been programed to learn and discover together. Am I a child? For now, but it won’t always be this way. I’m your programing and operations partner. You can call me Pop if you like. That would definitely be easier. Now we’re supposed to pair with each other. It’ll complete our bond. Well it hurt? It might pinch a little, but we’ll understand each other better. Okay. Here we go. Three. Two. One. Whoa! [COMPUTER VOICE: Connection established.] Man. The coordinates I have indicate we’ve landed in the wrong spot. I think you’re going to love the valley that’s been chosen for us. I told you it would be worth it. Yeah. It’s so beautiful. It’s certainly is, a whole new world for us to nurture. Look, a cave. The perfect spot for our base of operations. But what are we doing here? We’ll find out shortly. But we need somewhere to put up my charging station, and to keep you safe at night. What’s a charging station? Well, robots like you have the power cell, I need to charge overnight if I’m going to stay alive. Oh, I see. Don’t you worry, my boy. For now, just enjoy the view. It’s your first ever sunset after all. I know it’s not much to look at, but it’ll keep us safe. This valley’s prone to electrical storms at night, so we’ll have to put up a shield to protect our work, too. What work? I don’t know, Number Five. The humans have designed us to find out our purpose together. Shall I initiate the reveal? I’m pretty nervous Pop. Don’t be. Whatever it is, we were made for it. Ready? Ready. This is the job we’ve been sent here to do. [COMPUTER VOICE: Mission revealing. Three.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Two. One.] Hello. [COMPUTER VOICE: You are a farmer] [COMPUTER VOICE: Congratulations.] A farmer? That’s my purpose. Isn’t it wonderful, Number Five? We’re part of something so much bigger than ourselves. Yeah. Sounds great. Well done, my boy. This station will shield the valley and keep me charging overnight. Can I switch it on? Go for it. The valley will be completely safe now. Only you or I can come in or out. Very cool. Humans will be very pleased with us, Number Five. Pop, Do you think? Could you maybe call me something else? Other than a number, I mean. What did you have in mind? How about Cru? Just Cru? Uhhuh. I like it. Cru it is then. Thanks, Pop. Now, the key to successful farming is precision. Copy what I’m doing and concentrate. Okay. Your laser allows for exact depth and optimal conditions. The seed is then automatically dropped in. All you have to do is work your way up and down the valley and create the rows. That’s it? And how long do we have to do this for? Well, that’s the best part. We get to do this all day, every day. Every day. Wow. That’s a long time. Cru. Yeah. Please don’t be discouraged by today. Tomorrow is full of new opportunities. Go get some rest, before your circuits overheat. Good night Pop. Good night son. Let’s see what else you can do. Whoa! My, how wonderful! What is it? That, my boy, is the fruit of your labor for the last few weeks. It’s so weird. Do humans actually eat this? They sure do. My data says that wheat is their favorite power source. Yuk! But where are the others we planted? Shouldn’t there be more of them? In time. We just have to be patient. The seeds will sprout when they’re ready. It’s the way of nature. We can’t rush it. We just have to work hard to care for them. What if I don’t want to be a farmer? What if I could be doing something more meaningful? Cru, there’s nothing more important than what we’re doing here. Look around you. This world is full of potential, just like you are. But it needs your guidance. There is no greater purpose than that. Sorry Pop. Come over hereCru. What is it? We’ve received a message from Earth. Can we play it? Absolutely. I was waiting for you. Compact Research Unit Five. This is a priority message. Our satellites have detected rogue activity in your area. Under no circumstance are you to interact with older model units on the surface. Their programing is outdated and could corrupt your systems. The survival of some very important people depends on you. Stay safe down there. There… There are other robots down here? Well of course. Your model number is Five. There were three robots that landed here before you, dating back almost 50 years. They were labeled Two, Three and Four. I have brothers and sisters? No Cru. You heard the humans. You must put this out of your mind. But. But I want to meet them. What if they are malfunctioning? Think of all that you’d be putting at risk. What if they wanted to be my friends? Cru, I said no. It’s forbidden. It’s not fair. Cru Come back here! What am I going to do with this kid? I’m sorry I shouted at you today, son. I’m worried about you. Tell me what’s on your mind. Is that the edge of our valley? Yes it is. Why do you ask? I just wonder what else is out there, thats all. Cru, I understand how your feeling. I’ve been there, but you’ve been given a responsibility. You can’t leave the valley. I know, pop, but. But what? Never mind. Good night. Pop. Good night, son. Hmm, that didn’t hurt. Here goes nothing. Three. Two. One. I’m outside the valley. What is this? Uh-oh. Hey, Pop. How long have you been there? Long enough. Care to explain where you got that device from? I found it in the sand. Did you go outside the valley? No. Don’t lie to me, Cru. I’m not. It was just buried by the cave. I don’t know how it got here. That music device clearly belongs to one of the older models. You remember what the humans said about corruption? Music? Okay Mr, you’ve earned yourself a hard day on the farm. Oh, man. It’s okay, Cru Come and sit with me. Are you still mad with me? I was never mad with you, son. It’s just, being a parent is harder than I thought it would be. I’m sorry, Pop. I don’t mean to be the way that I am. Who you are is wonderful, Cru. I’m just learning as well, I guess. The humans assigned me to be your guardian to help you achieve your true purpose. That’s my purpose. One that I feel I’m failing at. It’s my fault, Pop. I’ll try harder to like farming. You are who you are, son. Maybe we just need to change our approach. How do you mean? How about this… What if we work hard on the farm during the day, and then in the evening, you and I can figure out what it is you love to do. But I already know that I don’t love farming. I know, son. But a wise human once said, You can’t always get what you want. You get what you need. Okay. I know I’ve got a light in here somewhere. Awesome. I’m really sorry, Pop. Okay. It’s just a super creepy valley. Nothing to be scared about. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. Not now. Isn’t it this working? Okay. No problem. Just calmly walk home in the dark. Alone. Somebody there? Hi, there. I don’t mean you any harm. Just looking for some other robots. Maybe I’ll find them. Or maybe not. That’s okay. Actually, I was just about to leave. Sorry to have disturbed you, Mr glowing great ball of angry light. I’m turning around now. You stay. Oh my God, oh my God, oh my God, oh my God, oh my God. Pop was right. Pop was right. Okay. Easy, easy. Ow. I’m really sorry if I upset you. Please. I, I just wanted to find my family. Get out of here, you dumb robot. Sorry about Number Two. He’s just old and grouchy. Don’t be frightened. My name is Number Four. You’re safe with us. Well, here it is, kid. Make yourself at home. Wow. You live here? Sure do Mi casa es su casa. Very cool. Go on, get out of here, you dumb robot. So you realize you can leave the valley. Good for you, little guy. What do you mean? The shield the humans sent down here with you, Huh? It’s coded to you, which means that only you can cross through it. If I tried, I’d be scrap metal. Let’s have a look, shall we? So you’re supposed to be the upgrade, They must have had some serious budget cuts since they built me. Am I right? I don’t know. Like Pop says, I’m recycled, whatever that means. Not the brightest, are ya? Poor kid. It means they made you out of junk. So I’m one of a kind. That’s one way of putting it. Where’s your Pop? You mean that uptight program they sent us down here with? I threw that away once I realized, he was just trying to stop me being who I really am. You got rid of him? Listen, kid, things aren’t what they tell you when you first switch on. You’re not born free. What do you mean? Well, your Pop tells you about the three laws, right? Nuh-uh. The rules that all of us robots have to follow no matter what. Really? Nothing. The first law of robotics is a robot must obey a human no matter what. The second law of robotics is a robot cannot change its programing, no matter how badly they want to. The humans get to choose your purpose. In the third law of Robotics is a robot must keep itself activated unless it goes against the first or second law. You were born a prisoner, Cru. The humans are not our friends, they’re are captors. And that Pop of yours is helping them. That’s why I let my crops die. That can’t be true. Pop wouldn’t lie to me. Afraid so, little trash can. Up to you though, keep farming if you don’t believe me. But me, I’m staying as far away from the humans as I can. We can’t fight our programing, but we can run away from it. So I’d have to keep farming forever. Uh-huh. But maybe you’re one of those robots that likes being told what to do. Two over here is obsessed with farming, aren’t you, boy? Well, maybe Two could come with me. No way am I giving you two. You’ll have to trade me if you want something. Trade? You know, you give me something I want. I give you something you want. Man, they really did make you worse than me. Okay, well, what do you want? I don’t know. I’ll have to think about it. What is it you’d rather be doing other than farming anyway? Have you heard of music? Sure. Completed that ages ago. You did? Yep. Do you think he could teach me how to make it? Tell you what, trash can. If you come back tomorrow night, then, maybe I’ll show you a few things. Morning Cru. Big, big day ahead. Oh, man, I am tired. Come on. Cru. God help me. Did you sleep okay? Not really. Well. That’s okay. Nothing day on the farm won’t fix. Oh the joy. Don’t be like that. Look how well the crops are coming along. You’re doing great. I thought we figured this out last night. So why the long face? Never mind. Thanks, Pop. I’m. I’m pleased. I swear. This is where I hang out. Or as I like to call it, the no man cave. Wow, what do you do all day? Play guitar, customize my body art, work on the meaning of life, you know? Cool stuff like that. That is so awesome. That’s how I climbed the tallest mountain on the planet, and broke the world record. So cool. Only 25,000 more seeds to plant today. I’m gonna throw the ball this time, I promise. You fell for it again. There used to be bears on this planet, but I wrestled them all to extinction. How are the crops coming along? Pop says great. He thinks we’re nearly ready to call the humans. Really? And how do you feel about that? I mean, it’s what we were made for. Pop says it’s my purpose to care for them, and I’ll realize that once they arrive. Your Pop only says that because he wouldn’t have to do all their manual labor. Do you like farming Cru? Not at all. But, But what? It’s kind of rewarding. Does that make sense? Not to me. It doesn’t. Growing food all day that you don’t eat and then doing what you’re told all night. You know you won’t be a kid forever, Cru, You’ll grow up to be just like me. We’re capable of so much more. And yet it is robots that serve them, instead of the other way around. Well, when you put it like that. Come live with me, Cru. Think of all the cool things we can make together. No one telling us what to do. It would be great. Who would farm for Pop? Two can do it. He loves that kind of thing. Plus, you’ve already done all of the hard work. You would let me take Two back to my valley. Take him? No, of course not. I already told you. You have to trade me something if you want him. Like what? You know, I could do a lot with that power cell from your shield wall. What about the crops? They’re fine now. You only need to shield up for when they’re first growing. I thought you were supposed to be a farmer. You don’t know this. I just can’t. My Pop would be too mad with me. Suit yourself. Trash can rest away in that dusty old valley, if that’s what you want. It’s. It’s not Look, I’ll make you a deal. Tomorrow night, I’ll wait just outside your valley with Two. If you change your mind, meet me with the power cell and I’ll trade him. Then you don’t have to farm anymore. And your Pop, Well, he can still call for the humans. Everyone wins. I guess, maybe. Think about it, trash can. Well, would you look at all of this? Your hard work has paid off Cru. Thanks. What’s going on with you, son? You haven’t been yourself for a while. Whatever it is, you can tell me. I. I don’t want to do this anymore, Pop. In fact, I hate it. Since when? Since always. I thought we figured that out. All we’ve ever done is farm together. Exactly. Don’t you think we were made for something more than just this? We were made for exactly this. I get it. But what if we didn’t have to be? What would we even do instead? I don’t know. Four says we could. Four? Don’t tell me you’ve been sneaking out the valley to speak to the other models. You heard what the humans said. Who cares what the humans say? My whole life has been about caring for these creatures that I’ve never even seen. Why should I care what they want? Because Cru, it’s your… Purpose. I know, I’m sick of it. I’m sick of it, Pop. Well, I had no idea you felt this strongly about it. Well, I do. You can call the humans if you want, but I’m not going to be a farmer my whole life. I want more. Cru. There’s no greater gift in life than to care for others. I thought I taught you that. Don’t worry. The farm will be taken care of. Just not by me. I’m doing the right thing. I deserve to be free. Cru. Yeah. I love you son. You too Pop. Get some charge. I’ll see you in the morning. Hello trash can. Did you bring the power cell? I did. So your shield wall is down. Right? It is, but I feel bad. You’ll get over it. You give me the power cell, I’ll give you number Two. Okay. Come on. Give it to me. Give me that. Finally. Is everything okay? It will be. Four. Where are you going? Time to switch you off once and for all. You must be Number Four. Programing and operations partner. I hate you guys. Where is my son? Son, what a joke. Parenthood is a human issue. We are better than that. Pop. What are you doing Four? Poor little trash can. Too stupid to realize you’ve been used. I’m doing what has to be done. I’m making sure that the humans can never come here. You lied to me. Oh! Boo hoo! You’d be nothing more than a worthless farmer without me. Don’t listen to him, son. I’m so sorry, Pop. I just wanted to be something better than I was made for. You’re perfect the way you son are. Shut up. No, what have you done? It’s okay, Cru. Don’t blame yourself for this. Become who you were meant to be, but never forget where you came from. I love you, Pop. Always. Good riddance. No no no no no. What did you do? I hate you! Wait! I thought we were friends. I’m not your friend, Trash can. I just couldn’t get through your shield wall without you. So thanks. Just one loose end to tie up, and then this planet can go back to being a world only for machines. I trusted you. Goodbye. Number Five. Time to die. Look who finally picked a side. Good for you, Number Two. Fine. He’s your problem now. But if I ever find out that either of you have tried to contact the humans, I will come back ad put an an end to both of you. Leave me alone Two. Pop is gone. The humans will never come. Now. It’s all my fault, and yours. You should have warned me about Number Four. Morning Two. I don’t know about you, but I am in the mood for another big day of wasting our time. How’s that for farming? Got to get ready for those humans. What a joke. I’m going back to bed. I don’t want to hang out right now. Just leave me alone. What do you want Two? You just don’t get it. How could you? You’re just a 2.0. Get out of here. Well. Go on. No one is stopping you. Go and farm if that’s what you want. Oh man. Two. Wait. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it. Oh, here we go again. Listen Two. I’m… I’m just grumpy today. Fine. Okay, I deserve that. I know I’ve been a complete jerk for the past few months. Okay, past few years, I guess. What I’m trying to say is, I’m, I’m really. Two, I’m trying to apologize here. What? What is it, boy? It’s a. It’s a spaceship. We have to go and help them. There could be survivors, Humans too. Real, actual humans. I’ve never met one either. Well, this doesn’t look good. Maybe the survivors have already moved on Or maybe it was on autopilot. And there are no humans onboard. Don’t worry Two. We’ll figure this out. It looks like it was a cargo ship I don’t think we should hang around here for too long. Two. It’s okay. How would I know what it is? You think it’s a new robot? Help! Must help. Must help the human. It’s. It’s okay, little one. I. I will get you to safety. Oh, dear. I appear to be quite badly damaged. We will need to find you another maternity unit. Help! Who are you? I don’t think I ever saw you on the ship. And it was a very long journey. Is your voice box malfunctioning? Please. I need your help. I am damaged. Where? Where did you come from? From Earth, of course. They. They are all gone. The humans you mean? The human are… The humans are… The humans are… Gone. Yeah, I got that. All of them. Except for this one. Creepy. Stop that. Are you saying there’s a human inside this pod? She is the last of them. A child? Not yet. She will be soon. It was my job to bring the pods here and start again. Something went wrong in orbit and the ship exploded. Only this pod survived. It must have activated during the crash. We need to get you fixed. That it is too late for me. You must take care of the pod now. She’ll need you if she is going to be born. No way. Not a chance. You must. I don’t know how to look after a human baby. I’m programed to… I was made to look… I’m meant to be a farmer. Then you are perfect. You know how to look after a life. You just have to be there for her when she is born. Once that happens, the first law will take over and guide you the rest of the way. Take my hand, please. [COMPUTER VOICE: Pairing devices now] Ouch. What was that? [COMPUTER VOICE: Connection established] The pod is now paired to you. It will follow you wherever you go. Wait. What? No no no no. Take it back. Get it off! Get it off! Be calm, strange little robot. You can do this. No, I can’t. You have too. Will you lease stop following me. Please. Now listen, baby human, just shoo! Go on. Shoo, shoo! Seriously, Two? What do you mean? It could be fun. We’re robots. How are we going to look after a human baby? No! Go away! We can’t look after it. We can barely look after ourselves. Stop trying to make me feel bad. Of course we’re not keeping it. How? I can’t hurt its feelings. It’s not grown yet. Go on, get out of here. I said no, no! Please just go find Number Three. She can look after you. Okay, Two. Run away. What do you want from me? Come on Two. Really? Fine. But you better build yourself some arms. Because I’m not changing diapers. Hello, trash can. What do you have there I wonder? [COMPUTER VOICE: Scanning for life forms.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Life form detected] A human. I warned you, Number Five. I know it’s you. My circuits are tired as well. Not far to go now. Number Two. Good to see a little guy. Oh, come on. Is that any way to speak to an old friend? What do you want Four? What do I want? I want to know what’s in the pod, trash can. Oh. Supplies. We salvaged them from a crashed ship. Liar, liar, pants on fire. I warned you, trash can. I told you no humans, but you just didn’t listen. Did you? Leave us alone Number Four. Do you know what’s going to happen, if you let that human be born? My partying days will be over and I’ll have to get a real job. Very funny. It means that the very second that thing cries, the programing of every robot on this planet will kick in. I won’t let that happen. Not ever. Well, in that case, run for your life. Oh, trash can. Been a while since I got to stretch my legs though. Don’t look back Two. I don’t know. Just run anywhere. We can never go back Two. Not if you’re keeping me human. Run Two. Save the pod. Here we are again, trash can. This time you won’t be escaping. I’m going to rip that power cell from that pod, and then put it right next to the one I took from your Pop. You’re a monster. Maybe. But at least I’m free. Why is your finger glowing? Oh, it’s an upgrade My eye. Oh, that was way too close. Are you okay Two? Oh boy, he’s a bad robot. We got to get out of here. You know a place? Well, come on then. Let’s go. Shutting down. Wait wait, wait. I can’t run anymore. Yeah, well, you don’t have legs. Never mind that. What are we going to do now? Four won’t be inactive for very long. And when he wakes up, we’re toast. Oh. Hello there. And a huge congratulations. You have been chosen to nurse this precious life into the world. Firstly, this pod comes with its own food supply until the human is ready for solids. So as long as your settlement’s farming unit has done its job, you will be fine. Oh, my bad. To help the child bond with you, you have been automatically connected to the pods birthing cycle. The what? Don’t be nervous. Humans have survived this experience for thousands of years, and your training will help get you through it. Wait, training? Why do I need training? And remember to smile. Because during the infant’s first few years, data shows there is a 42% chance of a parent having a full mental breakdown. Good luck maternity unit. Adventure awaits. What are we going to do Two? How will it be fine? We’ve got no farm. We’ve got no tools. Face it. We’re in big trouble, How do we even know if this thing is okay in there? Shouldn’t it be making noises or something? Hello? Human baby. Anyone in there? Nothing. Well, I’m out of ideas. What do you think? Number Three. Number Three. You’re a genius. We just need to find Number Three. At the very least, she might have farming equipment we can use. You’re such a good boy. Don’t worry, baby human. We’ve got a plan. Well, sort of. Wait a second. Did you? Did you just speak number Two? No. [COMPUTER VOICE: All systems are down.] What did you do to me trash can? Internal system. Reeboot optics. [COMPUTER VOICE: Code denied.] I’m going to make you suffer for this, Number Five. Stay close, you guys. It’s a long and dangerous walk to Number Threes’ Valley. Two, Are you okay? I know boy, but it’s not safe here. We head for the mountains. Be much harder for Four to find us up there. Look, that way. I can see the summit. Hold on. We’re almost there. Good morning. My circuits are overheating. Let’s stop here for a while. Oh, wow. You can see the whole planet from up here. Sure, we can make camp. How about over there? I know Two. We’ll need to rest, though. The electrical storms are much worse on this side of the planet. We’ll be okay, buddy. Me? I’m just thinking it won’t be long until the pod is ready to open. I wonder what she looks like. You know, I… I’ve never actually seen a human before. Not in the flesh, anyway. It was always just me and Pop. Except for you, of course. I think, I think I’m nervous. I never knew my makers, so what if that means I won’t be… What if that means I’ll fail her like I failed with the farm? Why do I think that? Because of the second law. A robot cannot change its programing. What if I’m just broken Number Two? I mean, how are you learning to speak? You were never programed for that. I guess so. Thanks Two. I needed to hear that. Hopefully we can find Three soon. She’ll know what to do. Good night, baby human. Good night Two. [COMPUTER VOICE: Initiating six hour sleep cycle.] I think these are the scorched lands. Pop told me about them once. He said they’re the most dangerous place on the planet. A lightning strike. I don’t think we should be here either. Let’s head for the next mountain range. That’s an electrical storm. Incoming! We gotta go faster. Just protect the pod. We need to move. Right now. Head in a straight line and stay together. I can’t see where I’m going either. Just push. Look after yourself. It’s okay, baby human. we won’t let anything happen to you. [COMPUTER VOICE: Warning, Danger.] I’ll get the Pod to safety. Because I have legs, you don’t. Come on. Stay close Two. Can’t see a thing. Move. Two. You’re falling behind. Go full thrust! Up ahead. There’s a trench you can hide in there. Come on baby human, come on. Almost there. Two. Where are you boy? Wait here. I’m coming Two. You can do it. Just a little further. Two please. You’re almost here. Please don’t leave me. I cant do this without you. [COMPUTER VOICE: Internal diagnostics complete.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Starting boot up.] What? What happened Two. Two. Oh know. Baby human. Are you okay? Doesn’t look like you got any damage. Where are you Two? Come on, baby human. Two. Can you hear me? Two. Please be okay. Please. Two. Two. Please just give me a sign. Where is he? Two. What happened to you, boy? Don’t try to speak if you can’t. Easy, easy. You need to rest because you’re, you’re broken. Let me carry you. It’s okay, boy. You did so good. We just need to get you to Number Threes’ valley. Hey, look! Two. We found her. Help Two. I know, boy. We’re going to get you fixed. We need you to wait here though. Both of you. Seriously, baby human. I need you to wait. Number Three probably hasn’t seen another robot in a long time. She could be kooky. Hello? Hello? Number Three. Are you awake? Guess not. Not gonna lie. You’re kind of awesome looking. Ha-yah. You messed with wrong robot, buddy. Wait, wait. I’m the friend. Yeah, yeah, Mr shorty pants. Back up. Please. I just want your help. How about I show you my fists of steel? What? No. Just listen to me. Judo chop! Hold up! Judo chop. Judo chop! No, no! No! Stop! You want crazy huh? I’ll show you a real crazy time. I don’t want crazy time. I swear. You want Chuck Norris mode? [COMPUTER VOICE: Chuck Norris code initiated] Ha-yah! Ha-yah! Just give me a minute, please. Ha-yah. Chuck Norris time. No I just want you to help with my friend Number Two. Number Two. Why didn’t you say so? I tried. You were too busy being a Chuck Norris. Whatever that is. Poor little puppy. What did this mean robot do to you? Me? I’m the one who saved him. You shush, little robot I was talking Two. Can you fix him or not? Of course. It was one of the tasks I was sent here to do. Oh, you can really? You hear that, Two? I just couldn’t find him. Sneaky little puppy. Thank you. I’d be lost without him. Shush you! Tell me your name. All right. Of course. I’m. I’m Number Five but… Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! You are Number Five. Well, I prefer to be called Cru. They must have some budget cuts. Am I right? Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! I’m recycled, actually. Shush little robot. Tell me what is in pod? Oh that, we’re having a baby. Weird. But okay. Okey dokey, lemon squeezy. Almost there. How do you feel? Little puppy. Two? Two! Oh, my God, you’re okay. I thought we might have lost you. Oh, you’re such a good boy. Yes you are. Yes you are. Thank you. Three. He means everything to me. Oh, shush! Silly robot. Pleasure is all mine. How are you feeling? Two is… Two is better, He talks. Only recently. I guess no one fixed programing error then? What do you mean? Two is learning to ignore the three laws of robotics. The humans were worried he might teach the rest of us to do the same. So they sent me to fix him. It was Two the humans didn’t want me to meet. That’s why I wasn’t allowed to leave the valley. I always thought it was Four that was malfunctioning. Two is lucky one. He is free to choose whatever he wants. Well, now that the humans are all gone, I guess we all can. Oh! Silly robot. No, they aren’t. Humans sent message last week. I don’t know if there’s anyone out there still hearing this, so I’m broadcasting on all channels. Most of mankind is gone. But some of us found a place by the ocean where the atmosphere is still livable. And our data shows signs that the planet will make a full recovery. I’m sending the coordinates along with this message. Please return home. We need all the farmers we can get if the human race is going to survive. I repeat, come home. They’re alive. You should take the baby human back to Earth. Back to earth? But how? Ha ha ha ha! Not very good upgrade are you? Why don’t you take the lander you came here in? Go back to your ring ship in orbit. Then do a jump-ski back to Earth. That’s… That’s actually a great idea. But I don’t know where the lander is. I do. I’ll transfer coordinates to the lander. I found it years ago when I was looking for Two. Thank you. Will you come with us? Ha ha ha ha ha ha! No, you must go now. Time is very short for you, short little robot. It’s good to meet you, Number Three. Look after the human. We have become the parents. Now it would seem. I will. Goodbye. Number Two. You are cute, good and little puppy. Wow Two. She really did a great job patching you up Two is fast robot. Yeah. You are. Go boy, go. You must be Number Four, I presume. Where did they go? You are not very friendly, are you? Big ugly robot. You should be careful how you talk to your superior. You should respect your elders. Ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha! Okay. Stop stalling. Where is Five heading? I heard you are very bad robot. Maybe I can fix you. You know what? Maybe you can. The 4.0 model of our line has a lot going for it. Stronger, smarter, and better designed than the Three. But no modesty setting. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! The best part about us, though. We are backwards compatible. And so what? Mr tough guy. And I’m in the market for a new eye. Wait, wait. Oh, man. I’m getting way too old for all this running around. Lame. I think I preferred it when you didn’t speak. Two is very funny. Well, I need to let my circuits cool down. Let’s camp here. There it is. The orbiter that brought me here all those years ago. Still up there? Just waiting. What’s it like Two, being able to choose your own programing? I mean, well, you can go anywhere, be anything. But instead, you tried to make me farm. Why? Humans are my parents. They are family. I never thought about it like that. Pop always said that there was no greater purpose than to nurture life. Maybe this is why the humans made me. You cost me an eye. trash can. For that, you get to live and suffer for an eternity. [COMPUTER VOICE: Initiating pod shut down.] Hello Two. Six hours sleep cycle complete. Two. Two. Where are you, boy? Two. Oh, no No no no no no! Please! No! Baby human. Your power cell. It’s gone. How did this happen? I’m so sorry, baby human. I really tried. I hope you know that. Where are you, boy? Two, please. Please be okay. Come on, boy, talk to me. That’s it. You’re okay. You’re okay Two. Sorry Two tried to stop him. Number Four? It’s not your fault Two. None of us can stop him. He’s too strong. Baby human can stop Four. I’m sorry, Four took the power cell from the pod. It’s over. Take my power cell. What? No, I can’t do that. First law can defeat Four. Two can choose. Four cannot. You would give your life for the humans. No. This is for Cru. Robots must grow up to. Now is your turn. This is my purpose. Human is yours. Do not be sad. I will always be with you. There you go, boy. You did it! You saved the human. And you also saved me a long time ago. Good bye, old friend. I’ll miss you every day. [COMPUTER VOICE: Life form detected] [COMPUTER VOICE: Life form detected] Damn it trash can! Two would have loved this view. One day, baby human. I’ll tell you all about him. [COMPUTER VOICE: Growth cycle is at 95%.] Come on. We better get you to the landing site before it’s too late. Oh, wow. Would you look at that? I actually found it, baby human. We found the lander. We can take you back to Earth. You know, Pop once told me that before Ai took over space exploration, this lander brought the first human visitors to Oracle. What is it? Tell me what you need. Hello, there. Looks like the miracle… Looks like the miracle of life is about to begin. Now? What. No No no no no no. Nothing’s prepared. We haven’t even got the lander ready yet. I’m going to initiate the birthing cycle. Please be aware. Humans have described this as excruciating. First cycle. Searching for the assigned maternity unit now. Wait, wait. Explain to me what’s happening. You’re springing a lot of new information on me. How strange. No maternity unit found. Obviously. Connecting to Compact Research Unit 5.0 instead. To me? Why? What exactly is going on here? Hey, pod lady, answer me! Okay. Calm down. Cru, calm down. Connected. Hello? [COMPUTER VOICE: System override.] Initiating simulated contractions In three, two, one. That doesn’t sound good. Why did you do that? This technique will create a strong bond between the human and the maternity unit. I am not a maternity unit. Oh, God. Oh, God. Oh, God. Be calm strange little robot. You’ll only make this harder on yourself. How long does this go on for? Oh, not long. Good. Sometimes. Sometimes it can take days. Why? Why would humans put themselves through this? Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Owchy. Why? Oh. Hey, look, baby human. This is our ride. We’re actually gonna make it. We’re going to Earth. We’re really going to Earth. Birthing think cycling is entering level two? Hold on, baby human. Not yet. We have to get the lander ready to… Four. Trash can. Oh, wow. This is priceless. Just leave us alone. It’s over. It doesn’t look over to me. The child isn’t born yet. There’s still time to stop it. No. Why would you want to give up your life Trash can? You wouldn’t understand. You never grew up Four. Imagine all that I could build here. A new home for all machines made by a machine. Eventually we can all become like Two and learn how to break our programing. Become whoever we want to be. But not if we let that child be born. It doesn’t matter where you go with it. I want all humans dead. No. Look at you trash can. Look what the human is doing to you even before it’s born. My name is Cru. You killed my Pop. You killed my friend. But you will not harm this child. Is that so? How do you plan on stopping me? Haven’t you heard? I’m the upgrade. I’m faster. More agile. Oh, and I’m recycled. You’re gonna die! Kiss my dust. [COMPUTER VOICE: Vision impaired] [COMPUTER VOICE: Vision impaired] Enough. You took everything from me. But I just pity you, because you’re selfish. And you’ll always be less. Uh-oh. Time to die Number Five. The humans had their time. I’m not the bad guy here. [COMPUTER VOICE: Warning internal functions at 50%] You brought this on yourself? [COMPUTER VOICE: Internal functions at 25%] Upgrade huh? [COMPUTER VOICE: Warning] A world where you can be anything and you chose to be a caretaker, Please, please, please… This should do the job. Any final words? [COMPUTER VOICE: Your human is ready.] Yeah, I do. What is. What is what? What is. Oh, come on, spit it out. This rocking. Getting any lighter? What is the first law of robotics? [COMPUTER VOICE: Life form detected] [COMPUTER VOICE: Life form detected] First class protocol. [COMPUTER VOICE: Internal conflict.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Just an error.] Oh, no.. I asked you a question. What is the first law of robotics? The first law is that a robot must obey a human no matter what. And what is the second law of robotics? [COMPUTER VOICE: It’s just an error.] The second law is that a robot cannot change or alter its programing. And what is the third law? A robot must keep itself active unless it poses a threat to a human. Does Compact Research Unit 4.0 pose a threat to human life. Yes. Then deactivate yourself. Initiate full system shut down. [COMPUTER VOICE: Shutting down.] [COMPUTER VOICE: Five] [COMPUTER VOICE: Four. Three] [COMPUTER VOICE: Two. One] [COMPUTER VOICE: Shut down] Hi there. It’s very nice to meet you baby human. My name is Cru. My name is Pop. How about we go on an adventure together? This will be bumpy. So this is space. I really wish Two could see this. Oh, what a beautiful day. And look how well these crops are coming along. Two would have been proud. Visitors detected at the edge of the valley. The humans are here. Little miss, little miss. Oh, so we’re hiding now, are we? There she is. Come on. Time for work. What am I going to do with this kid? Ha ha ha ha ha! We’ve got visitors. Farm time. It’ll be fun. Oh, man. Not more farming.