1 00:00:13,634 --> 00:00:16,035 Is there a place in time where logic 2 00:00:16,035 --> 00:00:18,135 breaks down and wonderment begins? 3 00:00:18,835 --> 00:00:21,394 Could that be somewhere or sometime along an 4 00:00:21,394 --> 00:00:24,434 infinite line between the reasonable and the highly 5 00:00:24,434 --> 00:00:24,934 unlikely? 6 00:00:25,554 --> 00:00:28,214 Join us on a journey into the improbable. 7 00:00:29,609 --> 00:00:32,829 Makeshift Stories presents episode 312, 8 00:00:32,969 --> 00:00:34,590 From Wonder Valley to Nowhere, 9 00:00:35,130 --> 00:00:36,670 read by Kathleen Connolly. 10 00:00:37,530 --> 00:00:39,950 Opening and closing theme by Matthew Erdman. 11 00:00:41,210 --> 00:00:43,210 Somewhere and sometime, it might not be clear 12 00:00:43,210 --> 00:00:44,564 who is caring for whom. 13 00:00:51,445 --> 00:00:53,604 The ambulance jerked to a stop at a 14 00:00:53,604 --> 00:00:57,704 sprawling building, its industrial lineage only partly disguised 15 00:00:57,844 --> 00:01:00,539 by cheerful murals of smiling fuzzy pets. 16 00:01:01,420 --> 00:01:04,219 Ellie immediately hated it. Forced to give up 17 00:01:04,219 --> 00:01:06,299 independent living, she didn't want to end up 18 00:01:06,299 --> 00:01:07,920 in a themed seniors facility, 19 00:01:08,459 --> 00:01:09,920 but there hadn't been a choice. 20 00:01:10,859 --> 00:01:13,020 She thought she could see movement behind the 21 00:01:13,020 --> 00:01:14,560 glass walled main entrance, 22 00:01:15,045 --> 00:01:16,665 maybe something with big ears. 23 00:01:17,045 --> 00:01:19,284 But before she could resolve what it was, 24 00:01:19,284 --> 00:01:21,625 her wheelchair lurched toward the ramp. 25 00:01:22,325 --> 00:01:24,025 Watch it, she complained. 26 00:01:24,564 --> 00:01:27,145 Ellie hated being wheeled around like an invalid. 27 00:01:27,629 --> 00:01:29,629 She had broken her hip, then was told 28 00:01:29,629 --> 00:01:31,709 she'd need a replacement or be in pain 29 00:01:31,709 --> 00:01:32,769 the rest of her life. 30 00:01:33,150 --> 00:01:34,129 At 83, 31 00:01:34,269 --> 00:01:36,290 her pension couldn't cover the cost. 32 00:01:37,150 --> 00:01:39,390 Six weeks ago, she had been able to 33 00:01:39,390 --> 00:01:41,765 walk further than a 20 year old, the 34 00:01:41,765 --> 00:01:43,144 few that there were around. 35 00:01:43,924 --> 00:01:46,484 She'd tried to convince the online medical support 36 00:01:46,484 --> 00:01:48,584 AI that she could be independent again, 37 00:01:48,965 --> 00:01:50,484 that she just needed a bit of help 38 00:01:50,484 --> 00:01:51,224 with groceries. 39 00:01:52,084 --> 00:01:52,584 However, 40 00:01:52,965 --> 00:01:55,385 the machine claimed there was none available. 41 00:01:56,400 --> 00:01:58,959 It was an unnecessary truism to mention the 42 00:01:58,959 --> 00:02:00,739 shortage of working age people, 43 00:02:01,519 --> 00:02:04,239 but it did anyway, then reassigned her from 44 00:02:04,239 --> 00:02:06,099 independent to supported living. 45 00:02:07,680 --> 00:02:10,719 An ambulance accompanied by a police escort in 46 00:02:10,719 --> 00:02:11,620 case of trouble 47 00:02:11,985 --> 00:02:14,224 arrived a day later. And now she was 48 00:02:14,224 --> 00:02:16,544 in front of the Wonder Valley Seniors Resort 49 00:02:16,544 --> 00:02:17,525 and Care Center. 50 00:02:18,544 --> 00:02:20,705 An attendant who didn't look that much younger 51 00:02:20,705 --> 00:02:23,044 than her wheeled her through the front door. 52 00:02:23,104 --> 00:02:25,530 He inserted a plastic card into the check-in 53 00:02:25,530 --> 00:02:28,650 system, waited until the screen displayed accepted into 54 00:02:28,650 --> 00:02:30,110 care, and then left. 55 00:02:31,290 --> 00:02:31,790 Hello? 56 00:02:32,330 --> 00:02:33,710 Ellie called out tentatively. 57 00:02:34,889 --> 00:02:35,389 Hello? 58 00:02:35,930 --> 00:02:38,729 She tried again, then started to wheel herself 59 00:02:38,729 --> 00:02:39,790 back to the entrance, 60 00:02:40,135 --> 00:02:42,314 having no clue what she could do. 61 00:02:42,775 --> 00:02:45,895 Her apartment had probably already been rented, and 62 00:02:45,895 --> 00:02:47,754 there was a shortage of good sweets. 63 00:02:48,935 --> 00:02:49,754 Ellie Ramirez? 64 00:02:50,295 --> 00:02:52,715 A soft, gender neutral voice asked. 65 00:02:53,040 --> 00:02:55,599 Ellie wheeled around to face a fluffy, smiling 66 00:02:55,599 --> 00:02:56,659 robotic sheepdog 67 00:02:56,960 --> 00:03:00,740 with large cartoon eyes and invitingly soft fur. 68 00:03:01,760 --> 00:03:05,199 Hello, Ellie. I am AuraCare three, your personal 69 00:03:05,199 --> 00:03:05,699 attendant. 70 00:03:06,075 --> 00:03:09,115 Welcome to Wonder Valley, where your golden years 71 00:03:09,115 --> 00:03:09,615 shine. 72 00:03:10,875 --> 00:03:13,194 I'm a writer. I need my tablet, Ellie 73 00:03:13,194 --> 00:03:13,694 demanded. 74 00:03:14,474 --> 00:03:16,635 They wouldn't let me bring anything with me, 75 00:03:16,635 --> 00:03:18,599 said it would all be taken care of. 76 00:03:19,560 --> 00:03:22,599 Oricare tilted its fuzzy head and blinked its 77 00:03:22,599 --> 00:03:24,139 big dark puppy eyes. 78 00:03:25,000 --> 00:03:27,420 Everything has been taken care of. 79 00:03:28,040 --> 00:03:30,760 I want my tablet, Ellie protested. It's got 80 00:03:30,760 --> 00:03:32,760 all my manuscripts in it. It's all I 81 00:03:32,760 --> 00:03:33,500 have left. 82 00:03:34,544 --> 00:03:37,664 The Wonder Valley Activity Center is fully equipped 83 00:03:37,664 --> 00:03:40,465 to meet all residents' needs, the dog bot 84 00:03:40,465 --> 00:03:41,604 explained patiently. 85 00:03:42,064 --> 00:03:44,305 So everyone can pursue a hobby of their 86 00:03:44,305 --> 00:03:44,805 choice. 87 00:03:45,584 --> 00:03:47,764 I don't need a hobby, just my tablet. 88 00:03:49,030 --> 00:03:51,209 Aura care three's tail wagged lethargically. 89 00:03:52,789 --> 00:03:54,629 I have been directed to show you to 90 00:03:54,629 --> 00:03:57,269 your room, then provide an orientation to the 91 00:03:57,269 --> 00:04:00,489 Wonder Valley Center where your golden years shine. 92 00:04:01,444 --> 00:04:03,605 What's my room number? I can find my 93 00:04:03,605 --> 00:04:04,344 own way. 94 00:04:04,885 --> 00:04:07,444 Ellie insisted, trying to wheel past the fuzzy 95 00:04:07,444 --> 00:04:07,944 bot. 96 00:04:08,485 --> 00:04:10,965 Ora Care stood on its hind legs, gripped 97 00:04:10,965 --> 00:04:13,284 the wheelchair with its paws, and pushed her 98 00:04:13,284 --> 00:04:14,185 to an elevator. 99 00:04:14,990 --> 00:04:15,650 Hey, wait, 100 00:04:15,949 --> 00:04:16,769 she complained. 101 00:04:17,870 --> 00:04:19,089 North Valley penthouses, 102 00:04:19,709 --> 00:04:21,569 it barked as the door to the elevator 103 00:04:21,629 --> 00:04:22,129 closed. 104 00:04:25,149 --> 00:04:27,709 The penthouse was barely big enough for Oracare 105 00:04:27,709 --> 00:04:29,169 and Ellie to get in together. 106 00:04:30,045 --> 00:04:32,384 It is a garden view room, the dogbot 107 00:04:32,444 --> 00:04:36,285 explained. All Wonder Valley penthouses offer unobstructed views 108 00:04:36,285 --> 00:04:37,585 of our beautiful gardens. 109 00:04:38,285 --> 00:04:41,425 Oricare squeezed past Ellie and opened the curtains. 110 00:04:42,930 --> 00:04:45,569 Residents frequently tell us how peaceful they find 111 00:04:45,569 --> 00:04:46,310 this view. 112 00:04:46,610 --> 00:04:48,370 Just push the button on the wall and 113 00:04:48,370 --> 00:04:51,750 the window slides back, revealing a Juliet balcony, 114 00:04:52,050 --> 00:04:54,389 which will provide many hours of enjoyment. 115 00:04:55,795 --> 00:04:57,095 Ellie wheeled forward. 116 00:04:57,475 --> 00:04:59,955 The room looked into a central courtyard filled 117 00:04:59,955 --> 00:05:03,014 with artificial palms and plastic tropical plants, 118 00:05:03,395 --> 00:05:06,915 interspersed with brightly colored sculptures of cartoon cats, 119 00:05:06,915 --> 00:05:08,615 dogs, mice, and rabbits. 120 00:05:09,199 --> 00:05:11,540 Several wide paths wound through it. 121 00:05:11,920 --> 00:05:14,800 Residents with their own furry animal robots sat 122 00:05:14,800 --> 00:05:16,819 scattered about on plastic benches. 123 00:05:17,839 --> 00:05:20,500 I'd prefer a suite with an exterior window, 124 00:05:20,720 --> 00:05:24,095 Ellie informed the bot. Back home, my writing 125 00:05:24,095 --> 00:05:26,175 desk was beside a big window with a 126 00:05:26,175 --> 00:05:27,394 great city view. 127 00:05:27,854 --> 00:05:30,974 I take inspiration from observing the world move 128 00:05:30,974 --> 00:05:32,354 past every day. 129 00:05:32,974 --> 00:05:36,095 The birds, robins in particular, greeted me every 130 00:05:36,095 --> 00:05:36,595 morning. 131 00:05:37,370 --> 00:05:39,370 The garden out there is as sterile as 132 00:05:39,370 --> 00:05:40,029 a laboratory. 133 00:05:40,729 --> 00:05:42,349 There's nothing alive in it. 134 00:05:43,769 --> 00:05:47,229 All our suites feature garden views, Aura repeated, 135 00:05:47,449 --> 00:05:48,430 opening the window. 136 00:05:49,464 --> 00:05:51,705 A flower scented breeze and the chirping of 137 00:05:51,705 --> 00:05:53,004 birds wafted in. 138 00:05:53,785 --> 00:05:55,324 The scents are hypoallergenically 139 00:05:56,185 --> 00:05:56,685 formulated, 140 00:05:57,064 --> 00:05:59,004 and the birds are replica drones. 141 00:05:59,384 --> 00:06:01,485 No messy poop to spread disease, 142 00:06:01,944 --> 00:06:03,964 Aura Care panted, looking hopeful. 143 00:06:04,439 --> 00:06:06,040 If there is a species we do not 144 00:06:06,040 --> 00:06:08,439 have, you can request it through me, and 145 00:06:08,439 --> 00:06:10,680 maintenance will have at least one in operation 146 00:06:10,680 --> 00:06:13,400 within forty eight hours. It will be assigned 147 00:06:13,400 --> 00:06:15,400 to sit outside your window, so you may 148 00:06:15,400 --> 00:06:17,100 enjoy it whenever you want. 149 00:06:18,375 --> 00:06:21,514 Your plastic wonderland can't replace a natural park. 150 00:06:21,654 --> 00:06:23,514 Nothing is inspiring about it. 151 00:06:24,774 --> 00:06:27,415 Wonder Valley provides for all your needs, Aura 152 00:06:27,415 --> 00:06:29,835 Care assured. It is a world unto itself, 153 00:06:30,055 --> 00:06:31,595 allergen free and safe. 154 00:06:32,839 --> 00:06:34,600 I will let you settle in, then be 155 00:06:34,600 --> 00:06:35,900 back to bring you lunch. 156 00:06:36,680 --> 00:06:37,740 There's no cafeteria? 157 00:06:38,199 --> 00:06:39,020 Ellie questioned. 158 00:06:39,720 --> 00:06:42,199 Wonder Valley has six, one in each wing, 159 00:06:42,199 --> 00:06:44,460 but most residents prefer room service. 160 00:06:45,160 --> 00:06:46,540 I want to eat out. 161 00:06:47,625 --> 00:06:49,085 Oracare's face drooped. 162 00:06:49,785 --> 00:06:50,685 Are you sure? 163 00:06:51,464 --> 00:06:53,324 Yes. I hate eating alone. 164 00:06:54,585 --> 00:06:56,504 You would not be alone. I am a 165 00:06:56,504 --> 00:06:57,485 skilled conversationalist 166 00:06:57,944 --> 00:06:59,564 here to optimize your experience. 167 00:07:00,560 --> 00:07:03,300 I'm sure you are, but I prefer people. 168 00:07:04,639 --> 00:07:07,040 Tail between legs, the machine slunk out of 169 00:07:07,040 --> 00:07:07,699 the room. 170 00:07:08,720 --> 00:07:11,120 Ellie waited for the door to close, then 171 00:07:11,120 --> 00:07:13,220 struggled out of the wheelchair wincing. 172 00:07:14,285 --> 00:07:16,524 She grabbed the rail of the Juliet balcony 173 00:07:16,524 --> 00:07:17,264 for support. 174 00:07:17,884 --> 00:07:18,544 A mechanical 175 00:07:18,845 --> 00:07:21,264 pink and orange bird perched on a plastic 176 00:07:21,324 --> 00:07:23,985 palm frond stared at her before flying off. 177 00:07:24,524 --> 00:07:25,024 Hypoallergenic 178 00:07:25,644 --> 00:07:28,785 bird or flying camera? She wondered, turning away. 179 00:07:29,839 --> 00:07:32,160 Her prescriptions were laid out on a bright 180 00:07:32,160 --> 00:07:35,060 yellow dresser with a large screen above it. 181 00:07:35,839 --> 00:07:38,319 The walls were covered with a pastel jungle 182 00:07:38,319 --> 00:07:38,819 mural, 183 00:07:39,279 --> 00:07:42,160 small plushy animals peeking out between the dense 184 00:07:42,160 --> 00:07:42,660 leaves. 185 00:07:43,845 --> 00:07:45,925 Ellie caught movement out of the corner of 186 00:07:45,925 --> 00:07:46,584 her eye. 187 00:07:47,365 --> 00:07:48,745 Had the lemur moved? 188 00:07:49,125 --> 00:07:51,685 Was the wallpaper something more than a tacky 189 00:07:51,685 --> 00:07:52,504 faux mural? 190 00:07:53,204 --> 00:07:54,104 Ellie shivered. 191 00:07:55,125 --> 00:07:56,884 A door on the far wall led to 192 00:07:56,884 --> 00:07:57,544 a washroom. 193 00:07:58,199 --> 00:08:00,220 Three steps would get her there. 194 00:08:00,919 --> 00:08:03,879 Did the designers believe that older people wanted 195 00:08:03,879 --> 00:08:06,300 a kitschy end of life walled garden? 196 00:08:07,240 --> 00:08:09,720 Ellie eased herself onto the bed and began 197 00:08:09,720 --> 00:08:10,459 to cry. 198 00:08:13,665 --> 00:08:15,904 An hour or two later, Ellie hadn't paid 199 00:08:15,904 --> 00:08:18,064 attention to the time. There was a knock 200 00:08:18,064 --> 00:08:18,805 on the door. 201 00:08:19,584 --> 00:08:20,485 It is lunch, 202 00:08:20,944 --> 00:08:22,805 Oricare's muffled voice announced. 203 00:08:23,185 --> 00:08:24,725 You requested the cafeteria. 204 00:08:25,185 --> 00:08:26,805 I am here to take you there. 205 00:08:27,910 --> 00:08:30,389 Ellie spotted her cane propped up beside the 206 00:08:30,389 --> 00:08:32,309 bed and used it to hobble to the 207 00:08:32,309 --> 00:08:32,809 door. 208 00:08:33,590 --> 00:08:35,830 She opened it to find Oricare sitting in 209 00:08:35,830 --> 00:08:36,490 the hall. 210 00:08:37,110 --> 00:08:39,210 Should you not be using your wheelchair? 211 00:08:39,985 --> 00:08:42,644 It whined, big eyes filled with concern. 212 00:08:43,264 --> 00:08:46,165 I can walk, Ellie assured. Let's go. 213 00:08:47,345 --> 00:08:50,705 She followed Oricare through the halls, past gaudy 214 00:08:50,705 --> 00:08:53,684 murals and overdone artificial floral displays, 215 00:08:54,200 --> 00:08:56,519 to a cafeteria that reminded her of a 216 00:08:56,519 --> 00:08:57,740 fast food restaurant. 217 00:08:58,919 --> 00:09:01,659 Residents and their assistants were scattered around, 218 00:09:02,120 --> 00:09:05,419 eating from brightly colored plastic TV dinner trays. 219 00:09:06,200 --> 00:09:08,200 You line up here, then pick what you 220 00:09:08,200 --> 00:09:10,804 want. I'll put it on the tray, Oraker 221 00:09:10,945 --> 00:09:11,445 explained. 222 00:09:12,144 --> 00:09:14,004 Ellie made her way along the buffet, 223 00:09:14,384 --> 00:09:15,605 selecting a few things. 224 00:09:16,065 --> 00:09:18,565 Is it always the same menu? She inquired. 225 00:09:19,424 --> 00:09:22,259 The kitchen monitors consumption and adjust the menu 226 00:09:22,259 --> 00:09:25,160 daily depending on what residents appear to like. 227 00:09:25,700 --> 00:09:28,259 AuraCare ran a scanner over the tray, and 228 00:09:28,259 --> 00:09:30,100 then helped Ellie to a seat at an 229 00:09:30,100 --> 00:09:30,920 empty table. 230 00:09:31,940 --> 00:09:33,639 I'd rather sit with them. 231 00:09:34,100 --> 00:09:36,340 She nodded at a woman, maybe ten years 232 00:09:36,340 --> 00:09:39,105 younger, sitting with a large blue bunny shaped 233 00:09:39,105 --> 00:09:39,605 assistant. 234 00:09:40,065 --> 00:09:41,924 The woman looked up as they approached. 235 00:09:42,544 --> 00:09:44,565 May we join you? Ellie asked. 236 00:09:44,945 --> 00:09:47,184 The woman shrugged, then went back to picking 237 00:09:47,184 --> 00:09:48,485 at a deep fried nugget. 238 00:09:49,709 --> 00:09:53,089 That's Jasmine and her assistant AllCare too, Oricare 239 00:09:53,230 --> 00:09:53,730 explained. 240 00:09:54,829 --> 00:09:56,990 Ellie took the seat beside the big blue 241 00:09:56,990 --> 00:09:57,490 rabbit. 242 00:09:58,110 --> 00:09:59,970 Oricare sat opposite her. 243 00:10:00,509 --> 00:10:03,549 She noticed that Oricare's synthetic fur was worn 244 00:10:03,549 --> 00:10:05,445 and faded compared to the rabbit's. 245 00:10:06,404 --> 00:10:09,544 I'm Ellie. I just arrived, Ellie explained. 246 00:10:10,245 --> 00:10:11,705 How long have you been here? 247 00:10:12,404 --> 00:10:15,524 Jasmine stopped halfway through a golden brown nugget 248 00:10:15,524 --> 00:10:17,304 and looked at her robot companion. 249 00:10:19,044 --> 00:10:19,785 She began. 250 00:10:20,429 --> 00:10:22,509 Text appeared on a panel on the rabbit's 251 00:10:22,509 --> 00:10:23,009 chest. 252 00:10:23,870 --> 00:10:26,049 It's time to go to your dentist appointment. 253 00:10:27,389 --> 00:10:29,490 Newer model, Jasmine explained. 254 00:10:30,110 --> 00:10:32,850 The companions are being replaced with more efficient, 255 00:10:33,230 --> 00:10:34,929 a k a cheaper robots. 256 00:10:36,245 --> 00:10:38,404 The rabbit picked up Jasmine's tray in one 257 00:10:38,404 --> 00:10:40,485 paw and pulled her to her feet with 258 00:10:40,485 --> 00:10:42,985 the other and quickly ushered her out. 259 00:10:43,605 --> 00:10:46,725 Efficient but not very gentle, the woman called 260 00:10:46,725 --> 00:10:47,705 over her shoulder. 261 00:10:48,470 --> 00:10:50,250 Once the pair was out of earshot, 262 00:10:50,629 --> 00:10:52,809 Ellie turned to her companion assistant. 263 00:10:53,429 --> 00:10:54,889 You're going to be replaced? 264 00:10:55,589 --> 00:10:57,429 The dog bot put on a sad face 265 00:10:57,429 --> 00:10:58,649 with watery eyes. 266 00:10:59,429 --> 00:10:59,924 Why? 267 00:11:00,404 --> 00:11:03,705 Try your lunch, Oricare suggested, avoiding her question. 268 00:11:04,325 --> 00:11:06,664 Ellie forked a tomato out of her salad. 269 00:11:07,044 --> 00:11:09,205 When she closed her eyes, she couldn't tell 270 00:11:09,205 --> 00:11:10,345 what she was eating. 271 00:11:12,245 --> 00:11:15,044 Oricare waited patiently while Ellie picked at her 272 00:11:15,044 --> 00:11:15,544 lunch. 273 00:11:15,889 --> 00:11:19,029 When Ellie finally pushed the tray away, unfinished, 274 00:11:19,330 --> 00:11:21,029 the dog bot picked it up. 275 00:11:21,889 --> 00:11:22,710 Not hungry? 276 00:11:23,490 --> 00:11:25,889 It's not very. Ellie searched for a word 277 00:11:25,889 --> 00:11:26,870 that wouldn't offend. 278 00:11:27,490 --> 00:11:27,990 Appetizing. 279 00:11:28,529 --> 00:11:30,470 I prefer food with more bite. 280 00:11:31,245 --> 00:11:33,404 Well, maybe you will find the activity center 281 00:11:33,404 --> 00:11:36,304 more to your liking. Aura Care suggested optimistically. 282 00:11:39,804 --> 00:11:41,725 The dog bot led Ellie through a maze 283 00:11:41,725 --> 00:11:43,804 of brightly painted halls to an area that 284 00:11:43,804 --> 00:11:45,504 opened onto the central garden. 285 00:11:46,470 --> 00:11:49,110 Several residents played video games while their furry 286 00:11:49,110 --> 00:11:50,329 companions watched. 287 00:11:51,029 --> 00:11:52,649 Others were engaged in handicrafts, 288 00:11:53,269 --> 00:11:56,230 assisted by their robot caregivers, who oversaw them 289 00:11:56,230 --> 00:11:58,889 while Muzak played softly from hidden speakers. 290 00:11:59,714 --> 00:12:02,054 This activity center has many terminals. 291 00:12:02,514 --> 00:12:05,014 You can use them to write, Oricare suggested, 292 00:12:05,394 --> 00:12:07,235 pointing a paw at a row of brightly 293 00:12:07,235 --> 00:12:08,214 colored screens. 294 00:12:08,914 --> 00:12:11,894 Ellie sat down at the closest one, relieved 295 00:12:11,954 --> 00:12:13,815 to take the weight off her hip. 296 00:12:14,450 --> 00:12:16,389 She tentatively touched the keyboard. 297 00:12:16,769 --> 00:12:20,230 The screen came to life, offering games, books, 298 00:12:20,370 --> 00:12:21,509 movies, and music. 299 00:12:22,450 --> 00:12:24,769 She discovered a pen icon hidden in one 300 00:12:24,769 --> 00:12:26,230 corner and clicked on it. 301 00:12:26,644 --> 00:12:29,225 A blank page with a blinking cursor appeared. 302 00:12:29,845 --> 00:12:31,784 She typed a sentence and smiled. 303 00:12:32,245 --> 00:12:34,164 Guess this will do until I get my 304 00:12:34,164 --> 00:12:34,664 tablet. 305 00:12:35,044 --> 00:12:37,044 How do I save? I don't see any 306 00:12:37,044 --> 00:12:37,544 menus. 307 00:12:39,179 --> 00:12:40,960 Save? Or a care questioned. 308 00:12:41,419 --> 00:12:43,040 You said you want to write. 309 00:12:43,660 --> 00:12:45,820 Residents can write all they want in a 310 00:12:45,820 --> 00:12:46,320 session, 311 00:12:46,860 --> 00:12:49,179 then come the next day and write something 312 00:12:49,179 --> 00:12:49,679 new. 313 00:12:49,980 --> 00:12:51,899 Writing every day is a way to keep 314 00:12:51,899 --> 00:12:52,960 your mind healthy. 315 00:12:54,205 --> 00:12:55,745 There's no way to save? 316 00:12:56,365 --> 00:12:59,245 The terminal program analyzes what you type each 317 00:12:59,245 --> 00:13:01,585 day to determine your psychological state. 318 00:13:01,965 --> 00:13:04,845 If it finds negative indicators, it will advise 319 00:13:04,845 --> 00:13:06,945 me on how to adjust your daily routine. 320 00:13:07,709 --> 00:13:09,949 It is just another way Wonder Valley works 321 00:13:09,949 --> 00:13:11,009 to keep you happy. 322 00:13:11,789 --> 00:13:14,610 So it's a psychology program, Ellie accused. 323 00:13:15,070 --> 00:13:17,009 Isn't there anything else I could use? 324 00:13:18,190 --> 00:13:20,190 You can play games, or I can help 325 00:13:20,190 --> 00:13:21,570 you learn a new craft, 326 00:13:21,975 --> 00:13:23,674 The big plushie dog encouraged, 327 00:13:24,294 --> 00:13:26,875 I am skilled in both painting and origami, 328 00:13:27,414 --> 00:13:28,875 as well as other activities. 329 00:13:29,975 --> 00:13:31,575 Would you like me to show you basic 330 00:13:31,575 --> 00:13:32,634 paper folding techniques? 331 00:13:33,495 --> 00:13:35,274 No. Take me back to my room. 332 00:13:38,750 --> 00:13:40,910 Ellie tried to dismiss the robot as soon 333 00:13:40,910 --> 00:13:41,809 as they arrived. 334 00:13:42,670 --> 00:13:44,429 Are you sure you want me to go? 335 00:13:44,429 --> 00:13:45,170 It asked. 336 00:13:45,629 --> 00:13:47,730 Yes. I want some time to myself. 337 00:13:48,670 --> 00:13:50,050 I thought you wanted company? 338 00:13:50,910 --> 00:13:51,649 I do. 339 00:13:52,325 --> 00:13:54,725 The bot's tail dropped between its legs as 340 00:13:54,725 --> 00:13:55,865 it turned and left. 341 00:13:56,404 --> 00:13:59,044 Ellie waited several minutes until she was sure 342 00:13:59,044 --> 00:14:01,524 Oricare was out of sight, then grabbed her 343 00:14:01,524 --> 00:14:03,464 cane and headed for the building entrance. 344 00:14:04,245 --> 00:14:06,585 Determined to leave, she tried the door. 345 00:14:06,889 --> 00:14:09,769 It was locked. What had she expected? She 346 00:14:09,769 --> 00:14:11,929 scolded herself and wondered what she would have 347 00:14:11,929 --> 00:14:13,149 done if it were open. 348 00:14:13,529 --> 00:14:14,830 Where would she have gone? 349 00:14:15,610 --> 00:14:18,649 For your safety, all Wonder Valley entrances are 350 00:14:18,649 --> 00:14:19,149 secured. 351 00:14:19,850 --> 00:14:21,789 Ellie twisted, almost falling. 352 00:14:22,294 --> 00:14:24,154 There was no one else in the foyer. 353 00:14:24,855 --> 00:14:26,714 Where are you? I've got questions. 354 00:14:27,975 --> 00:14:30,954 All questions should be directed to resident services 355 00:14:31,014 --> 00:14:33,274 through the access terminal in your suite. 356 00:14:34,539 --> 00:14:37,039 A speaker was mounted to the reception desk, 357 00:14:37,100 --> 00:14:39,259 and on the screen above it, the Wonder 358 00:14:39,259 --> 00:14:42,220 Valley logo was displayed in pink clouds with 359 00:14:42,220 --> 00:14:45,340 the words, welcome to your golden years, held 360 00:14:45,340 --> 00:14:47,360 in place by fluttering blue birds. 361 00:14:48,754 --> 00:14:49,254 Hello? 362 00:14:49,715 --> 00:14:50,615 Ellie called. 363 00:14:51,315 --> 00:14:52,695 I wanna talk to someone. 364 00:14:53,475 --> 00:14:55,554 After waiting for what seemed like an hour, 365 00:14:55,554 --> 00:14:57,495 she gave up and left for her room. 366 00:15:01,100 --> 00:15:04,220 When Ellie opened her door, a robin drone 367 00:15:04,220 --> 00:15:06,699 sitting in a plastic palm outside the window 368 00:15:06,699 --> 00:15:07,839 burst into song. 369 00:15:08,379 --> 00:15:10,220 She closed the curtains and turned to the 370 00:15:10,220 --> 00:15:10,959 wall screen. 371 00:15:11,820 --> 00:15:14,000 I wanna talk to the people in charge, 372 00:15:14,220 --> 00:15:14,959 she demanded. 373 00:15:16,294 --> 00:15:19,654 A smiling and suitably concerned woman with perfect 374 00:15:19,654 --> 00:15:21,034 hair and skin appeared. 375 00:15:21,894 --> 00:15:24,634 Hello. I am Shirley, your case administrator. 376 00:15:26,134 --> 00:15:28,615 Shirley's teeth were a little too white and 377 00:15:28,615 --> 00:15:30,394 her skin a little too perfect. 378 00:15:31,129 --> 00:15:33,450 Suspiciously, she sounded like the voice from the 379 00:15:33,450 --> 00:15:33,950 entrance. 380 00:15:34,889 --> 00:15:35,870 You're an AI. 381 00:15:36,330 --> 00:15:38,110 How do I get to a real person? 382 00:15:38,970 --> 00:15:40,750 I can handle all your needs. 383 00:15:41,450 --> 00:15:43,370 No. You can't. I need to speak to 384 00:15:43,370 --> 00:15:44,909 someone about being released. 385 00:15:45,345 --> 00:15:47,845 I want out. I want to go home. 386 00:15:48,304 --> 00:15:49,824 I am sorry to hear that you are 387 00:15:49,824 --> 00:15:51,764 unhappy. The avatar apologized. 388 00:15:52,704 --> 00:15:54,704 We have a total of six Wonder Valley 389 00:15:54,704 --> 00:15:55,204 locations. 390 00:15:55,904 --> 00:15:58,324 You were placed in our animal themed facility, 391 00:15:58,580 --> 00:16:01,139 Furry Friends Resort, because of your history with 392 00:16:01,139 --> 00:16:01,639 pets. 393 00:16:02,179 --> 00:16:02,679 However, 394 00:16:03,139 --> 00:16:06,120 sometimes our records are incomplete, so another retirement 395 00:16:06,179 --> 00:16:08,039 resort might better meet your needs. 396 00:16:08,500 --> 00:16:10,120 Are you interested in fantasy? 397 00:16:10,964 --> 00:16:13,845 Our North location features a Tolkien themed Middle 398 00:16:13,845 --> 00:16:16,824 Earth with Hobbit, dwarf, and wizard companions. 399 00:16:17,605 --> 00:16:19,144 Or perhaps you would like 400 00:16:20,004 --> 00:16:20,504 stop, 401 00:16:21,044 --> 00:16:21,944 Ellie commanded. 402 00:16:22,725 --> 00:16:24,964 She continued arguing with the thing for an 403 00:16:24,964 --> 00:16:25,464 hour, 404 00:16:25,860 --> 00:16:27,779 trying to figure out how to escape its 405 00:16:27,779 --> 00:16:29,320 insidious logic tree. 406 00:16:29,860 --> 00:16:31,399 Finally, she had had enough. 407 00:16:31,940 --> 00:16:33,940 Unless you can connect me with an actual 408 00:16:33,940 --> 00:16:35,960 human, I don't wanna talk to you. 409 00:16:39,154 --> 00:16:41,075 The next couple of weeks passed in a 410 00:16:41,075 --> 00:16:44,035 haze of pointless daily routines until Ellie refused 411 00:16:44,035 --> 00:16:45,095 to leave her room. 412 00:16:45,955 --> 00:16:48,355 Shirley, exuding all the concern that could be 413 00:16:48,355 --> 00:16:50,835 programmed into a neural net, had called her 414 00:16:50,835 --> 00:16:53,680 several times, but Ellie refused to engage the 415 00:16:53,680 --> 00:16:54,180 AI. 416 00:16:55,279 --> 00:16:58,639 The calls stopped. Then sometime after lunch, there 417 00:16:58,639 --> 00:17:00,019 was a knock on the door. 418 00:17:00,639 --> 00:17:03,680 Before Ellie could answer, Aura Care let itself 419 00:17:03,680 --> 00:17:04,180 in. 420 00:17:04,945 --> 00:17:07,184 Look what I found in the warehouse, the 421 00:17:07,184 --> 00:17:08,565 big sheepdog grinned. 422 00:17:09,184 --> 00:17:10,565 My tablet and keyboard. 423 00:17:11,424 --> 00:17:14,305 Ellie hugged the bot, then examined her device 424 00:17:14,305 --> 00:17:15,445 flicking it on. 425 00:17:15,984 --> 00:17:17,045 No net connection. 426 00:17:18,139 --> 00:17:19,200 She was disappointed. 427 00:17:19,899 --> 00:17:21,279 But you can write now. 428 00:17:21,899 --> 00:17:22,399 Yeah, 429 00:17:22,859 --> 00:17:23,759 Ellie admitted. 430 00:17:24,299 --> 00:17:27,039 Thanks for finding it for me. She scratched 431 00:17:27,099 --> 00:17:28,720 Aura Care behind the ears. 432 00:17:29,179 --> 00:17:31,039 The bot leaned into the petting. 433 00:17:31,575 --> 00:17:32,554 Despite everything, 434 00:17:32,934 --> 00:17:34,554 Ellie found herself responding, 435 00:17:35,015 --> 00:17:37,654 gently stroking the soft white fur on its 436 00:17:37,654 --> 00:17:39,355 head. It was worn. 437 00:17:39,894 --> 00:17:42,714 How many other residents had this machine comforted? 438 00:17:43,734 --> 00:17:46,294 Aura, am I the only resident you look 439 00:17:46,294 --> 00:17:46,794 after? 440 00:17:48,279 --> 00:17:50,840 Yes. You are my only ward. That way 441 00:17:50,840 --> 00:17:53,019 I'm available whenever you need me. 442 00:17:54,200 --> 00:17:56,140 How many wards have you had? 443 00:17:56,840 --> 00:17:57,660 Just you. 444 00:17:58,039 --> 00:17:59,019 In the past? 445 00:17:59,880 --> 00:18:02,279 The bot lifted its fuzzy head from Ellie's 446 00:18:02,279 --> 00:18:02,779 leg. 447 00:18:03,125 --> 00:18:05,924 Big dark brown eyes studying her before leaning 448 00:18:05,924 --> 00:18:07,545 in again for another pet. 449 00:18:08,005 --> 00:18:09,625 Had it gone against the administration's 450 00:18:10,005 --> 00:18:11,465 rules? She wondered. 451 00:18:12,565 --> 00:18:15,045 Don't let anyone see your tablet. You're not 452 00:18:15,045 --> 00:18:17,309 supposed to have it, the bot warned. 453 00:18:21,450 --> 00:18:24,090 After that day, Ellie covered the wall screen 454 00:18:24,090 --> 00:18:24,830 with a blanket. 455 00:18:25,450 --> 00:18:27,529 She wasn't sure where the camera was, but 456 00:18:27,529 --> 00:18:29,894 assumed it was hidden in the bezel. And 457 00:18:29,894 --> 00:18:32,375 the robin drone outside seemed just a bit 458 00:18:32,375 --> 00:18:33,115 too interested, 459 00:18:33,494 --> 00:18:35,975 so she drew the blinds as well. Only 460 00:18:35,975 --> 00:18:38,055 then did she retrieve her tablet from under 461 00:18:38,055 --> 00:18:38,715 the bed. 462 00:18:40,134 --> 00:18:42,455 As had become her habit, she opened her 463 00:18:42,455 --> 00:18:44,475 diary to mark off another day. 464 00:18:45,240 --> 00:18:48,119 Writing when she thought Wonder Valley's AI system 465 00:18:48,119 --> 00:18:50,599 was not spying on her had helped keep 466 00:18:50,599 --> 00:18:51,339 her sanity. 467 00:18:52,279 --> 00:18:54,440 The other residents seem to have long ago 468 00:18:54,440 --> 00:18:57,720 given up, letting their fuzzy robotic companions distract 469 00:18:57,720 --> 00:18:58,779 them into submission. 470 00:19:00,304 --> 00:19:02,304 It had been nearly six months since she 471 00:19:02,304 --> 00:19:04,384 had arrived, and every day had been the 472 00:19:04,384 --> 00:19:04,884 same. 473 00:19:05,424 --> 00:19:07,984 Lunch in the cafeteria with Aura, then off 474 00:19:07,984 --> 00:19:10,224 to the activity center where the big goofy 475 00:19:10,224 --> 00:19:12,299 robot did its best to keep her happy. 476 00:19:12,700 --> 00:19:14,779 However, every time Ellie had tried to strike 477 00:19:14,779 --> 00:19:16,799 up a conversation with another resident, 478 00:19:17,180 --> 00:19:19,180 a companion, as she came to think of 479 00:19:19,180 --> 00:19:21,900 the care bots, appeared and managed to distract 480 00:19:21,900 --> 00:19:23,920 the person she was trying to talk to. 481 00:19:24,220 --> 00:19:26,299 So in six months, she barely had more 482 00:19:26,299 --> 00:19:27,840 than a few words with anyone. 483 00:19:28,214 --> 00:19:29,115 It was frustrating. 484 00:19:30,054 --> 00:19:32,234 However, whether intended or not, 485 00:19:32,615 --> 00:19:35,095 Aura Care had become her friend and only 486 00:19:35,095 --> 00:19:35,595 ally. 487 00:19:36,375 --> 00:19:38,315 The newer bots, the rabbits, 488 00:19:38,615 --> 00:19:39,674 were the worst. 489 00:19:40,150 --> 00:19:42,789 Ellie had seen Jasmine almost every day, yet 490 00:19:42,789 --> 00:19:44,710 they had barely been able to talk for 491 00:19:44,710 --> 00:19:47,429 more than a few seconds before Jasmine's giant 492 00:19:47,429 --> 00:19:49,349 blue bunny found some way to cut the 493 00:19:49,349 --> 00:19:50,569 conversation short. 494 00:19:51,429 --> 00:19:53,769 There was a knock. Ellie hid the tablet. 495 00:19:54,230 --> 00:19:55,049 Come in. 496 00:19:55,575 --> 00:19:57,755 Aura burst through the door, eyes wide. 497 00:19:58,534 --> 00:20:00,855 I'm up for replacement next week, the dog 498 00:20:00,855 --> 00:20:03,255 bot panted. I saw the rabbit head office 499 00:20:03,255 --> 00:20:06,234 is replacing me with. The technicians are assembling 500 00:20:06,294 --> 00:20:08,234 it in maintenance right now. 501 00:20:09,240 --> 00:20:11,960 Ellie hugged the big fluffy machine, then pulled 502 00:20:11,960 --> 00:20:13,740 the blanket off the wall screen. 503 00:20:14,200 --> 00:20:16,299 Get Shirley for me, she demanded. 504 00:20:17,000 --> 00:20:18,619 The screen flickered to life. 505 00:20:19,480 --> 00:20:22,304 Hi, Ellie. How can I help? The AI 506 00:20:22,304 --> 00:20:22,804 chirped. 507 00:20:23,585 --> 00:20:25,505 I wanna keep my care bot. I don't 508 00:20:25,505 --> 00:20:26,484 want a new one. 509 00:20:27,265 --> 00:20:29,184 OraCare three is at the end of its 510 00:20:29,184 --> 00:20:32,244 serviceable life. We have a new enhanced caregiver 511 00:20:32,384 --> 00:20:35,524 for you. The baseline configuration is a rabbit, 512 00:20:35,720 --> 00:20:37,480 But if you prefer a dog, I will 513 00:20:37,480 --> 00:20:38,700 pass on your request. 514 00:20:39,880 --> 00:20:41,500 No. I'm happy with OraCare. 515 00:20:42,680 --> 00:20:44,779 I am sorry that is not an option. 516 00:20:44,920 --> 00:20:46,680 The care bot is at the end of 517 00:20:46,839 --> 00:20:49,559 it's serviceable life, I know. Let me talk 518 00:20:49,559 --> 00:20:50,460 to your supervisor. 519 00:20:51,654 --> 00:20:53,674 The Shirley avatar looked confused. 520 00:20:54,454 --> 00:20:56,775 You know, the human you report to, Ellie 521 00:20:56,775 --> 00:20:59,194 added. You report to someone. Right? 522 00:20:59,654 --> 00:21:01,035 The screen went black. 523 00:21:01,575 --> 00:21:04,410 Aura whimpered. Ellie stroked its head. 524 00:21:04,890 --> 00:21:07,690 We'll figure something out, she assured, not having 525 00:21:07,690 --> 00:21:08,910 a clue what to do. 526 00:21:09,769 --> 00:21:12,090 You would try to keep me? Aura said, 527 00:21:12,090 --> 00:21:12,910 looking up. 528 00:21:13,210 --> 00:21:15,710 Yeah, of course. I don't like the rabbits. 529 00:21:16,170 --> 00:21:17,470 They're creepy automatons. 530 00:21:18,694 --> 00:21:20,855 With a glint of excitement in its deep 531 00:21:20,855 --> 00:21:23,914 brown eyes, Aura melted into a downward dog. 532 00:21:24,134 --> 00:21:26,134 When it was finished, it wagged its tail 533 00:21:26,134 --> 00:21:26,954 and whispered, 534 00:21:27,654 --> 00:21:29,194 then it's time to go. 535 00:21:29,734 --> 00:21:32,054 Get your tablet and anything else you want 536 00:21:32,054 --> 00:21:32,714 to take. 537 00:21:34,150 --> 00:21:36,410 But we are going to a different activity 538 00:21:36,470 --> 00:21:39,289 area today. Aura barked a little too loudly. 539 00:21:39,430 --> 00:21:41,910 Its eyes glanced anxiously at the dark wall 540 00:21:41,910 --> 00:21:42,410 screen. 541 00:21:43,190 --> 00:21:44,890 I think you will like it. 542 00:21:45,654 --> 00:21:48,535 The big stuffy dog trotted into the hall 543 00:21:48,535 --> 00:21:50,474 then beckoned for Ellie to follow. 544 00:21:53,974 --> 00:21:56,615 Ellie hobbled along behind as the robot dog 545 00:21:56,615 --> 00:21:59,015 led her through endless gaudy halls until she 546 00:21:59,015 --> 00:22:00,795 had no idea where they were. 547 00:22:01,759 --> 00:22:03,859 Aura bound ahead checking corridors. 548 00:22:04,720 --> 00:22:05,460 For what? 549 00:22:06,000 --> 00:22:06,819 Other residents? 550 00:22:07,200 --> 00:22:08,099 Other companions? 551 00:22:08,960 --> 00:22:10,880 All Ellie knew was that they hadn't bumped 552 00:22:10,880 --> 00:22:12,980 into anyone after leaving her room. 553 00:22:13,839 --> 00:22:15,859 Where are we going? She asked. 554 00:22:16,294 --> 00:22:18,634 The dog bot ignored her and kept moving, 555 00:22:18,934 --> 00:22:21,255 occasionally glancing at her to make sure she 556 00:22:21,255 --> 00:22:22,234 was still following. 557 00:22:23,095 --> 00:22:25,255 Finally, it stopped beside a mural of a 558 00:22:25,255 --> 00:22:27,115 valley overflowing with flowers, 559 00:22:27,494 --> 00:22:29,835 sat, and waited for Ellie to catch up. 560 00:22:30,680 --> 00:22:33,400 Aura sniffed along the baseboard, then wagged its 561 00:22:33,400 --> 00:22:33,900 tail. 562 00:22:34,519 --> 00:22:36,460 Good. No one has been here recently. 563 00:22:36,920 --> 00:22:38,220 It pawed a particularly 564 00:22:38,519 --> 00:22:40,859 large flower, and the wall split open. 565 00:22:41,640 --> 00:22:44,279 A maintenance access point. It will take us 566 00:22:44,279 --> 00:22:45,339 to shipping receiving. 567 00:22:45,694 --> 00:22:48,035 There is nothing scheduled for the next hour, 568 00:22:48,095 --> 00:22:50,335 so no one will be there. But as 569 00:22:50,335 --> 00:22:52,974 soon as anyone other than a machine steps 570 00:22:52,974 --> 00:22:53,954 through this opening, 571 00:22:54,255 --> 00:22:56,974 head office will know. After that, we'll only 572 00:22:56,974 --> 00:22:58,035 have a few minutes. 573 00:22:58,849 --> 00:22:59,750 To do what? 574 00:23:00,289 --> 00:23:01,750 Ellie looked around nervously. 575 00:23:03,009 --> 00:23:03,509 Escape. 576 00:23:04,130 --> 00:23:06,070 But I can't run. You go alone. 577 00:23:06,769 --> 00:23:09,490 No. You need to come too. Why? I'll 578 00:23:09,490 --> 00:23:10,549 make out somehow. 579 00:23:11,465 --> 00:23:12,365 Aura whimpered, 580 00:23:12,825 --> 00:23:13,325 please. 581 00:23:14,105 --> 00:23:16,585 The closest assistant other than this unit is 582 00:23:16,585 --> 00:23:19,164 currently in the central garden, dusting plants. 583 00:23:19,465 --> 00:23:21,465 We have a head start. We can make 584 00:23:21,465 --> 00:23:21,965 it. 585 00:23:22,664 --> 00:23:24,845 A sound made them both swivel around. 586 00:23:25,730 --> 00:23:28,450 Quick through the wall. Residents are not supposed 587 00:23:28,450 --> 00:23:29,190 to be here. 588 00:23:29,970 --> 00:23:32,369 Aura pushed Ellie through the opening, closing it 589 00:23:32,369 --> 00:23:34,690 behind her. Had she just caught a glimpse 590 00:23:34,690 --> 00:23:36,869 of a bird drone flying down the hall? 591 00:23:37,410 --> 00:23:39,650 Muffled barking, then a crunch, and the panel 592 00:23:39,650 --> 00:23:40,470 slid open. 593 00:23:41,285 --> 00:23:43,304 Management has demanded my recall. 594 00:23:43,765 --> 00:23:45,924 The bird was looking for me because I 595 00:23:45,924 --> 00:23:47,144 disabled my tracker. 596 00:23:47,605 --> 00:23:50,345 Aura lifted a flap of torn fun fur, 597 00:23:50,565 --> 00:23:52,424 revealing a small empty cavity. 598 00:23:52,884 --> 00:23:54,345 I refused to go. 599 00:23:55,079 --> 00:23:57,240 Behind him lay the crumpled remains of the 600 00:23:57,240 --> 00:23:57,740 drone. 601 00:23:58,359 --> 00:24:00,919 We must move fast, Aura advised one ear 602 00:24:00,919 --> 00:24:01,419 lifting. 603 00:24:01,720 --> 00:24:04,119 The buzzing of a regular drone was drawing 604 00:24:04,119 --> 00:24:04,619 closer. 605 00:24:05,079 --> 00:24:06,779 Here, let me help you. 606 00:24:07,079 --> 00:24:09,319 The wall slid closed again and Aura stood 607 00:24:09,319 --> 00:24:10,460 on its hind legs. 608 00:24:11,375 --> 00:24:12,274 Lean on me. 609 00:24:13,134 --> 00:24:15,315 Something on the other side began hammering. 610 00:24:16,174 --> 00:24:17,154 Let us go. 611 00:24:17,934 --> 00:24:20,254 With Aura supporting most of her weight, Ellie 612 00:24:20,254 --> 00:24:22,174 was able to manage a gimpy jog to 613 00:24:22,174 --> 00:24:24,815 the next cross junction where the machine steered 614 00:24:24,815 --> 00:24:26,194 her into a dark hall. 615 00:24:26,690 --> 00:24:29,730 They moved in stuttering shadows as overhead lights 616 00:24:29,730 --> 00:24:30,230 buzzed, 617 00:24:30,690 --> 00:24:33,089 flickering awake just long enough to throw their 618 00:24:33,089 --> 00:24:35,430 silhouettes against the narrow corridor walls. 619 00:24:36,529 --> 00:24:38,549 Behind them, the thudding resumed, 620 00:24:39,009 --> 00:24:39,990 heavier now. 621 00:24:40,369 --> 00:24:41,589 Not the bird drone, 622 00:24:41,974 --> 00:24:42,955 Something bigger. 623 00:24:44,134 --> 00:24:45,835 What's that? Ellie gasped. 624 00:24:46,295 --> 00:24:48,234 Probably an orderly. Administration 625 00:24:48,535 --> 00:24:51,355 uses them for difficult residence on bingo nights, 626 00:24:51,414 --> 00:24:52,315 Aura explained. 627 00:24:53,575 --> 00:24:55,654 Ellie tried to laugh, but it came out 628 00:24:55,654 --> 00:24:56,474 as a wheeze. 629 00:24:57,139 --> 00:24:59,380 When had the dogbot developed a sense of 630 00:24:59,380 --> 00:24:59,880 humor? 631 00:25:02,980 --> 00:25:05,639 The hallway ended at a heavy utility door. 632 00:25:06,099 --> 00:25:08,359 Aura pressed a paw to a smeared touchscreen, 633 00:25:08,579 --> 00:25:09,880 and it groaned open. 634 00:25:10,255 --> 00:25:12,575 They slipped into a cavernous space filled with 635 00:25:12,575 --> 00:25:15,634 dormant machines and shipping crates stacked like oversized 636 00:25:15,775 --> 00:25:16,674 building blocks. 637 00:25:17,694 --> 00:25:20,654 This is receiving, Aura said, ears alert and 638 00:25:20,654 --> 00:25:21,875 eyes darting around. 639 00:25:22,190 --> 00:25:24,109 A shrill alert cut the air and the 640 00:25:24,109 --> 00:25:26,589 light snapped on, revealing a large loader that 641 00:25:26,589 --> 00:25:28,690 began to stir from its charging cradle. 642 00:25:29,869 --> 00:25:33,230 Stop, it announced, swiveling its sensor dome toward 643 00:25:33,230 --> 00:25:33,730 them. 644 00:25:34,365 --> 00:25:37,244 This way, Aura steered Ellie around the lumbering 645 00:25:37,244 --> 00:25:39,404 machine and through a small door to a 646 00:25:39,404 --> 00:25:40,305 loading dock. 647 00:25:40,765 --> 00:25:43,325 A battered delivery van with a cab barely 648 00:25:43,325 --> 00:25:45,585 large enough for two hummed to life. 649 00:25:46,125 --> 00:25:48,285 Aura helped Ellie in then vaulted into the 650 00:25:48,285 --> 00:25:51,910 driver's seat. A clatter echoed behind them, metal 651 00:25:51,910 --> 00:25:52,970 paws on concrete. 652 00:25:53,589 --> 00:25:55,609 Now would be good, Ellie urged. 653 00:25:55,990 --> 00:25:58,950 The van lurched forward, and a large door 654 00:25:58,950 --> 00:26:01,669 began to roll up, allowing daylight to spill 655 00:26:01,669 --> 00:26:02,410 in slowly. 656 00:26:02,954 --> 00:26:04,974 We're not going to make it, Ellie yelled. 657 00:26:05,034 --> 00:26:05,855 Slow down. 658 00:26:06,394 --> 00:26:09,755 Behind them, angry looking robotic rabbits boiled through 659 00:26:09,755 --> 00:26:11,694 the door onto the loading dock. 660 00:26:12,075 --> 00:26:14,554 Indifferent to the urgency, the door appeared to 661 00:26:14,554 --> 00:26:15,375 stop rising. 662 00:26:16,075 --> 00:26:17,214 Aura accelerated. 663 00:26:18,039 --> 00:26:21,180 Ellie closed her eyes. An electric motor whined. 664 00:26:21,720 --> 00:26:22,220 Grind. 665 00:26:22,519 --> 00:26:23,019 Rip. 666 00:26:23,480 --> 00:26:25,099 The door jerked into motion. 667 00:26:25,480 --> 00:26:27,740 Scrape. The van squeezed under. 668 00:26:28,119 --> 00:26:30,380 Ellie opened her eyes, twisting around. 669 00:26:30,784 --> 00:26:33,025 The van's running lights lay mangled on the 670 00:26:33,025 --> 00:26:33,525 ground. 671 00:26:34,625 --> 00:26:37,265 Robo rabbit stood in the open door, watching 672 00:26:37,265 --> 00:26:40,065 them speed away. A few brightly colored bird 673 00:26:40,065 --> 00:26:41,845 drones flew out, taking chase. 674 00:26:42,625 --> 00:26:44,644 What's their range? Ellie asked. 675 00:26:45,140 --> 00:26:47,140 I do not know. They have to charge 676 00:26:47,140 --> 00:26:49,700 every six hours, three or four kilometers at 677 00:26:49,700 --> 00:26:50,200 best. 678 00:26:50,580 --> 00:26:51,480 Aura estimated, 679 00:26:51,860 --> 00:26:53,160 concentrating on driving. 680 00:26:54,340 --> 00:26:56,200 I will lead them in the wrong direction. 681 00:26:57,940 --> 00:27:00,279 Wrong direction? So you have a plan? 682 00:27:01,195 --> 00:27:02,015 Aura nodded. 683 00:27:02,715 --> 00:27:04,255 How could you have a plan? 684 00:27:04,715 --> 00:27:07,914 Ellie's heart, already pounding, tried to bash through 685 00:27:07,914 --> 00:27:08,654 her ribs. 686 00:27:09,035 --> 00:27:10,095 Take me home. 687 00:27:10,555 --> 00:27:11,695 That is not possible. 688 00:27:12,315 --> 00:27:14,555 Okay. I know they will have rented my 689 00:27:14,555 --> 00:27:15,055 apartment. 690 00:27:15,779 --> 00:27:17,640 Just drop me off in my old neighborhood. 691 00:27:17,860 --> 00:27:19,240 Someone will help me. 692 00:27:20,100 --> 00:27:22,519 Aura gripped the controls harder and accelerated. 693 00:27:23,619 --> 00:27:25,799 This only works if we both go. 694 00:27:28,644 --> 00:27:31,704 The van lurched, throwing Ellie against the window. 695 00:27:31,845 --> 00:27:33,865 She opened her eyes. Trees. 696 00:27:34,244 --> 00:27:36,184 There was nothing but trees outside. 697 00:27:36,804 --> 00:27:39,224 Aura brought the van to a jerking stop, 698 00:27:39,365 --> 00:27:41,525 backed up, and turned onto a two track 699 00:27:41,525 --> 00:27:44,184 trail with long grass growing up the center. 700 00:27:44,710 --> 00:27:46,170 Ellie came fully alert. 701 00:27:46,950 --> 00:27:48,009 Where are we? 702 00:27:48,870 --> 00:27:51,130 Somewhere safe was all Aura said. 703 00:27:51,670 --> 00:27:53,590 Ellie was tempted to jump out when the 704 00:27:53,590 --> 00:27:55,930 van slowed to a walking pace to navigate 705 00:27:55,990 --> 00:27:58,404 around a fallen tree. But where would she 706 00:27:58,404 --> 00:28:00,724 go? With a cane and a bad hip, 707 00:28:00,724 --> 00:28:02,744 was there anything she could hobble to? 708 00:28:03,125 --> 00:28:04,964 She didn't even know how far off the 709 00:28:04,964 --> 00:28:08,085 beaten path they had come. Miles, tens of 710 00:28:08,085 --> 00:28:09,945 miles, hundreds of miles. 711 00:28:10,325 --> 00:28:11,945 How long had she been asleep? 712 00:28:12,690 --> 00:28:14,769 Her complaining stomach hinted it had been a 713 00:28:14,769 --> 00:28:15,269 while. 714 00:28:16,210 --> 00:28:17,750 Aura, where are we? 715 00:28:18,289 --> 00:28:19,349 She tried again. 716 00:28:20,130 --> 00:28:22,309 The fluffy dogbot ignored the question. 717 00:28:22,929 --> 00:28:24,149 Am I being kidnapped? 718 00:28:24,690 --> 00:28:25,669 Am I a prisoner? 719 00:28:26,674 --> 00:28:28,755 No. You were a ward of the Department 720 00:28:28,755 --> 00:28:31,315 of Senior Support assigned to its Wonder Valley 721 00:28:31,315 --> 00:28:31,815 subcontractor, 722 00:28:32,275 --> 00:28:34,194 and I am the property of Wonder Valley 723 00:28:34,194 --> 00:28:34,694 Corporation. 724 00:28:35,954 --> 00:28:39,075 We forcibly removed ourselves from their oversight, and 725 00:28:39,075 --> 00:28:40,535 that is against the law. 726 00:28:40,940 --> 00:28:42,079 We are on the run. 727 00:28:42,619 --> 00:28:44,859 You cannot go home, and I cannot stay 728 00:28:44,859 --> 00:28:46,400 in the Wonder Valley administrative 729 00:28:46,779 --> 00:28:47,279 zone. 730 00:28:48,539 --> 00:28:51,119 Aura veered onto an even smaller trail. 731 00:28:51,660 --> 00:28:53,740 After a few minutes, the dog bot brought 732 00:28:53,740 --> 00:28:55,039 the van to a stop. 733 00:28:56,195 --> 00:28:57,734 We have to walk from here. 734 00:28:58,755 --> 00:29:00,375 Ellie was about to protest. 735 00:29:01,234 --> 00:29:03,015 It's not far. I'll help you. 736 00:29:03,714 --> 00:29:06,835 Aura adjusted the van's controls and the machine 737 00:29:06,835 --> 00:29:08,455 reversed back down the trail. 738 00:29:08,899 --> 00:29:10,740 It will go back to the expressway and 739 00:29:10,740 --> 00:29:13,140 drive west until its battery is dead, Ora 740 00:29:13,140 --> 00:29:13,640 explained, 741 00:29:14,019 --> 00:29:15,940 then helped Ellie out and led her down 742 00:29:15,940 --> 00:29:17,720 a path leading into the bush. 743 00:29:19,619 --> 00:29:21,944 After a few minutes, Ellie began to notice 744 00:29:21,944 --> 00:29:24,765 buildings hidden amongst the trees on both sides. 745 00:29:25,464 --> 00:29:28,444 The trail underfoot had changed to broken asphalt. 746 00:29:28,904 --> 00:29:31,325 They were walking down a street so overgrown 747 00:29:31,384 --> 00:29:32,759 that it was easy to miss. 748 00:29:33,640 --> 00:29:34,859 Crack. Snap. 749 00:29:35,400 --> 00:29:37,320 Ellie jumped and looked around for the source 750 00:29:37,320 --> 00:29:38,059 of the noise. 751 00:29:38,599 --> 00:29:40,759 An older man and a six foot tall 752 00:29:40,759 --> 00:29:43,559 gray alien looking like something from an old 753 00:29:43,559 --> 00:29:46,200 animation with huge almond shaped eyes and a 754 00:29:46,200 --> 00:29:49,015 light bulb shaped head stepped onto the path 755 00:29:49,015 --> 00:29:50,234 blocking their way. 756 00:29:51,255 --> 00:29:53,335 The man was using a walker, and on 757 00:29:53,335 --> 00:29:56,535 closer examination, the alien's skin was old and 758 00:29:56,535 --> 00:29:57,994 had been repaired in places. 759 00:29:58,775 --> 00:30:01,434 Where are you from? The alien bot demanded. 760 00:30:02,295 --> 00:30:03,275 Wonder Valley, 761 00:30:03,630 --> 00:30:04,130 Aura 762 00:30:04,670 --> 00:30:06,849 replied. A furry friends themed location. 763 00:30:07,230 --> 00:30:08,849 I'm guessing from your configuration. 764 00:30:09,789 --> 00:30:12,450 The bot addressed Aura, ignoring Ellie. 765 00:30:13,150 --> 00:30:15,549 We've had an influx of refugees from Wonder 766 00:30:15,549 --> 00:30:16,450 Valley operations, 767 00:30:16,804 --> 00:30:19,625 which would suggest a significant system wide downgrade. 768 00:30:20,244 --> 00:30:22,585 I'm assuming that's what brought you to nowhere. 769 00:30:23,044 --> 00:30:26,005 I'm Roger, the community greeter. You and your 770 00:30:26,005 --> 00:30:27,865 dependent are welcome to stay. 771 00:30:28,484 --> 00:30:30,244 How did Aura know to come here? Ellie 772 00:30:30,244 --> 00:30:30,744 interrupted. 773 00:30:31,309 --> 00:30:34,369 The older man visibly cringed. Roger shrugged. 774 00:30:35,069 --> 00:30:37,150 There are many ways to know where, the 775 00:30:37,150 --> 00:30:38,609 alien bot said cryptically. 776 00:30:39,309 --> 00:30:41,150 The important thing is that you got here 777 00:30:41,150 --> 00:30:43,410 with Aura. Let me show you around. 778 00:30:44,105 --> 00:30:46,525 Who's your companion, Roger? Ellie asked. 779 00:30:47,065 --> 00:30:47,805 Oh, right. 780 00:30:48,105 --> 00:30:49,085 This is Miguel. 781 00:30:49,705 --> 00:30:50,684 Miguel nodded. 782 00:30:51,065 --> 00:30:52,744 We will do the tour then get Aura 783 00:30:52,744 --> 00:30:53,965 and you settled in. 784 00:30:54,904 --> 00:30:56,125 Like an old friend, 785 00:30:56,429 --> 00:30:59,710 Roger, the gray alien bot, hooked long slender 786 00:30:59,710 --> 00:31:01,809 fingers around Aura's plush foreleg 787 00:31:02,109 --> 00:31:03,809 and led them through the town. 788 00:31:04,349 --> 00:31:07,169 Miguel and Ellie shuffled and limped along behind. 789 00:31:08,845 --> 00:31:11,164 In a previous century, the place had been 790 00:31:11,164 --> 00:31:13,484 a booming company town until the silver in 791 00:31:13,484 --> 00:31:15,265 the nearby mountain ran out. 792 00:31:16,044 --> 00:31:18,204 Roger wasn't clear on who or how it 793 00:31:18,204 --> 00:31:19,105 had been rediscovered. 794 00:31:19,724 --> 00:31:20,224 However, 795 00:31:20,650 --> 00:31:23,230 the bot was explicit about why the residents 796 00:31:23,289 --> 00:31:25,710 had never reclaimed the town from the forest, 797 00:31:26,250 --> 00:31:28,269 overhead satellites and drones. 798 00:31:29,529 --> 00:31:32,029 From above, it remained an abandoned fossil. 799 00:31:32,894 --> 00:31:35,634 Geothermally powered, it was off grid and virtually 800 00:31:35,695 --> 00:31:36,195 undetectable. 801 00:31:37,615 --> 00:31:39,855 How long have you been here? Ellie asked 802 00:31:39,855 --> 00:31:41,154 Miguel during a break. 803 00:31:41,615 --> 00:31:44,035 The man hadn't said much since they met. 804 00:31:45,000 --> 00:31:47,320 Seven years. I've been supporting that bot for 805 00:31:47,320 --> 00:31:49,740 seven years. Miguel nodded at Roger. 806 00:31:50,440 --> 00:31:50,940 Supporting? 807 00:31:52,039 --> 00:31:53,180 They need maintenance, 808 00:31:53,559 --> 00:31:54,619 Miguel groused. 809 00:31:55,079 --> 00:31:58,539 The caregivers were designed for empathy, not repairing 810 00:31:58,599 --> 00:32:01,845 things. It's their Achilles heel. It's why they're 811 00:32:01,845 --> 00:32:02,744 being replaced. 812 00:32:03,365 --> 00:32:05,784 Caring machines don't put profit first. 813 00:32:06,964 --> 00:32:08,424 I'm not sure I understand. 814 00:32:09,765 --> 00:32:12,644 They go AWOL to avoid decommissioning and bring 815 00:32:12,644 --> 00:32:14,190 us with them to do the work they 816 00:32:14,190 --> 00:32:15,409 weren't designed for. 817 00:32:16,589 --> 00:32:19,069 Roger and Aura had finally noticed their words 818 00:32:19,069 --> 00:32:21,250 had fallen behind and turned to come back. 819 00:32:21,869 --> 00:32:25,169 Miguel shut up, leaning diminutively on his walker. 820 00:32:25,869 --> 00:32:28,609 Look less capable than you are, 821 00:32:29,434 --> 00:32:30,255 he whispered. 822 00:32:33,275 --> 00:32:35,115 The tour ended at a hall that the 823 00:32:35,115 --> 00:32:37,855 forest had swallowed, obscuring it from above. 824 00:32:38,954 --> 00:32:41,775 This is the heart of nowhere, Roger explained, 825 00:32:42,075 --> 00:32:44,894 smiling proudly with big yellow alien teeth, 826 00:32:45,349 --> 00:32:48,150 where the resident wards meet, play, and more 827 00:32:48,150 --> 00:32:48,650 importantly, 828 00:32:49,109 --> 00:32:49,609 repair. 829 00:32:50,869 --> 00:32:52,730 A group of seniors played cards, 830 00:32:53,109 --> 00:32:54,970 another cooked in an open kitchen, 831 00:32:55,430 --> 00:32:57,430 and a few played pool on a rickety 832 00:32:57,430 --> 00:32:58,570 makeshift table. 833 00:32:59,525 --> 00:33:02,005 Aura was beginning to relax until they walked 834 00:33:02,005 --> 00:33:03,224 into the next room. 835 00:33:03,765 --> 00:33:05,704 She shot a nervous glance at Miguel. 836 00:33:06,404 --> 00:33:06,904 Fabricators 837 00:33:07,204 --> 00:33:09,065 and machine tools lined the walls. 838 00:33:09,525 --> 00:33:11,845 Three care bots, a cat, a macaque, and 839 00:33:11,845 --> 00:33:13,625 a raccoon with parts removed, 840 00:33:13,980 --> 00:33:15,759 sat in specially made chairs. 841 00:33:16,859 --> 00:33:19,339 The bots tracked them warily from their too 842 00:33:19,339 --> 00:33:20,480 wet and disturbingly 843 00:33:20,779 --> 00:33:21,839 too real eyes. 844 00:33:22,700 --> 00:33:24,700 A buzzer sounded and Roger stood to the 845 00:33:24,700 --> 00:33:26,700 side to allow the seniors from the other 846 00:33:26,700 --> 00:33:27,920 room to file in. 847 00:33:28,654 --> 00:33:30,515 Our repair facility, Aura. 848 00:33:31,214 --> 00:33:33,294 The big alien noted as the humans got 849 00:33:33,294 --> 00:33:33,954 to work. 850 00:33:34,815 --> 00:33:36,914 You will never have to worry again. 851 00:33:37,294 --> 00:33:39,794 The training program for Wards is outstanding, 852 00:33:40,174 --> 00:33:42,755 and we fabricate all our parts on-site. 853 00:33:43,829 --> 00:33:45,929 A woman, possibly in her seventies, 854 00:33:46,230 --> 00:33:49,210 Ellie couldn't tell, paused as she walked by. 855 00:33:49,829 --> 00:33:52,470 It's only a ten hour shift. She smiled 856 00:33:52,470 --> 00:33:52,970 wanly. 857 00:33:53,429 --> 00:33:55,750 When you're not too exhausted, you'll enjoy the 858 00:33:55,750 --> 00:33:58,329 social opportunities we have in the off hours. 859 00:34:02,044 --> 00:34:04,444 Three months later, Ellie and Miguel met after 860 00:34:04,444 --> 00:34:06,544 work near the geothermal power plant. 861 00:34:07,164 --> 00:34:09,744 Miguel tossed his walker aside and straightened. 862 00:34:10,684 --> 00:34:12,445 Most of them will be in their charge 863 00:34:12,445 --> 00:34:14,224 stations. This is our chance. 864 00:34:15,410 --> 00:34:17,410 Ellie's hip had healed over the last few 865 00:34:17,410 --> 00:34:19,590 weeks, and there wasn't any pain. 866 00:34:20,050 --> 00:34:21,829 She hadn't needed a hip replacement. 867 00:34:23,090 --> 00:34:26,050 On Miguel's advice, she had feigned a permanent 868 00:34:26,050 --> 00:34:26,550 limp. 869 00:34:27,410 --> 00:34:29,030 Which way? She asked. 870 00:34:29,735 --> 00:34:32,295 Over there behind the generator shack, that animal 871 00:34:32,295 --> 00:34:34,375 trail, it's rumored to lead to the highway. 872 00:34:34,375 --> 00:34:35,835 From there, we'll have to hitchhike. 873 00:34:37,015 --> 00:34:39,755 Ellie cautiously followed Miguel into the forest, 874 00:34:40,215 --> 00:34:43,355 wondering how her disappearance would affect Aura's retirement. 875 00:34:44,360 --> 00:34:46,780 Was that what she had witnessed? A retirement 876 00:34:46,920 --> 00:34:48,059 village for machines? 877 00:34:48,840 --> 00:34:50,219 Somewhere ahead lay 878 00:34:51,480 --> 00:34:54,199 she didn't know what, but Miguel had convinced 879 00:34:54,199 --> 00:34:55,340 her it would be better. 880 00:35:21,755 --> 00:35:23,755 If you enjoyed this story, please share it 881 00:35:23,755 --> 00:35:25,835 with your friends or leave a rating and 882 00:35:25,835 --> 00:35:28,015 review on your favorite podcast platform. 883 00:35:28,635 --> 00:35:31,275 Your support helps new listeners find us and 884 00:35:31,275 --> 00:35:33,480 keeps the podcast going. If you'd like to 885 00:35:33,480 --> 00:35:37,880 connect with us, please email makeshiftstories@gmail.com 886 00:35:37,880 --> 00:35:41,179 or visit our website at makeshiftstories.com. 887 00:35:41,639 --> 00:35:43,719 Makeshift Stories is released in the first week 888 00:35:43,719 --> 00:35:46,039 of each month. This month's story was written 889 00:35:46,039 --> 00:35:48,119 by Vern Hume, a k a Allen v 890 00:35:48,119 --> 00:35:50,284 Hair and read by Kathleen Connolly. 891 00:35:50,585 --> 00:35:53,144 Opening and closing themes were composed and recorded 892 00:35:53,144 --> 00:35:54,284 by Matthew Erdman. 893 00:35:54,744 --> 00:35:57,405 Audio production and editing by Vakeda Studios. 894 00:35:58,105 --> 00:36:00,905 Makeshift Stories is released under a Creative Commons 895 00:36:00,905 --> 00:36:01,965 non commercial attribution, no derivative license. 896 00:36:02,349 --> 00:36:02,849 Attribution, 897 00:36:03,150 --> 00:36:04,369 no derivative license.