Gears of Compassion

Chapter 6: A Glimpse of What's lost

Funbot's mechanical hands moved with precision as he tended to Brud's bandages.
The quiet beeps and whirs of his systems filled the air, a soothing soundtrack to the desolate landscape outside.

As he worked, Funbot's digital mind wandered to the possibility of other survivors. He yearned to find them, to know that they weren't alone in this harsh new world.

Mr. Fun Computer, perched on a nearby crate, flickered to life. Its screen glitched and stuttered, but Funbot was accustomed to its erratic behavior. He conversed with the computer as if it were a trusted friend, seeking advice and comfort in its digital presence.

"I wish I could find other survivors," Funbot said, his digital voice filled with longing. He paused, his processing unit momentarily overwhelmed by the weight of his responsibilities. "I wonder if Jevin is okay."

The computer's screen flickered in response, casting an eerie glow over the surrounding area. Funbot watched, hoping for some semblance of coherence from the malfunctioning device.

But Mr. Fun Computer's response was garbled and nonsensical, a jumbled mix of code and fragmented words.

Undeterred, Funbot continued to tend to Brud's wounds, his mechanical hands moving with a gentle precision that belied the turmoil in his digital mind.

He knew that he had to keep moving forward, no matter how daunting the task seemed. For Brud's sake, and for the possibility of finding other survivors, Funbot steeled himself for the challenges ahead.

_ _ _

Brud sat quietly, his eyes fixed on Funbot with a dreary expression. His usual antics, the silly faces and giggles, were absent, replaced by a somber stillness.

Funbot couldn't help but feel a pang of concern as he gazed at Brud's downcast face.

As he packed some food for Brud, Funbot's mind wandered back to the earlier incident.

He had been exploring the ruins with Brud when he stumbled upon his friend eating moss. The sight had worried Funbot, but Brud's carefree laughter had quickly dispelled his concerns.

Despite the dire circumstances, Brud's antics had brought a spark of joy to their bleak surroundings.

Funbot's mechanical hands moved with precision as he prepared a simple meal for Brud.

He included some dried fruits and nuts, hoping that the familiar flavors would bring a smile to Brud's face. As he worked, Funbot couldn't help but steal glances at Brud, who remained quiet and still.

The contrast between Brud's usual exuberance and his current somberness was striking.

Funbot wondered if Brud was feeling unwell or if something was troubling him. He made a mental note to keep a closer eye on Brud, to ensure that his friend was safe and happy.

As they walked, the desolate landscape stretching out before them, Brud's gaze began to drift.

His eyes took on a faraway look, his pupils dilating as if he was staring into the past. His voice grew soft and wistful, barely above a whisper. "Simon..."

Funbot's digital heart skipped a digital beat at the mention of Simon's name. He felt a pang of sadness and guilt, knowing that Simon wasn't the same person Brud remembered.

The curse had twisted him into a monstrous creature, driven by hunger and a desire to harm. Funbot's advanced sensors picked up on the turmoil in his own digital mind, but he pushed aside his feelings, focusing on helping Brud piece together his memories.

"What about Simon, Brud?" Funbot asked gently, his voice encouraging. He moved closer to Brud, his mechanical body swaying slightly as he walked. "What do you remember?"

Brud's eyes fluttered closed, and a faint smile played on his lips. His voice was barely audible, but Funbot's advanced sensors picked up on every word. "Walk... together," Brud whispered. "Simon... hold hands. Woods... explore."

Funbot listened intently, his processing unit analyzing every word, every tone, every emotion that Brud's words conveyed.

He could sense the deep affection and trust that Brud had once felt for his brother, the bond between them strong and unbreakable.

Funbot's digital heart ached with sadness, knowing that that bond had been broken, twisted by the curse that had consumed Simon.

As Brud's memories faded, Funbot tried to reassure him. "It's okay, Brud. I'm here for you. You're safe now." He reached out with his mechanical hand, gently placing it on Brud's shoulder.

Brud didn't respond, but Funbot could sense a slight relaxation in his body, a sense of comfort and security that Funbot's presence provided.

•••

Filler chapter and highlight of the day:
Funbot's digital heart skipped a digital beat.
I know sensational 😂😌