“Everyone, I would like you to meet the woman who designed me.” Roz walked over to the strange creature standing by the ship’s doorway. For most of the island animals, this was their first time seeing a human. They squinted and sniffed and whispered to each other, trying to understand how such a frail old woman could create such a big, strong robot.
Dr. Molovo started speaking softly to Roz, and then Roz started speaking loudly to the crowd of animals.
“My Designer has asked me to translate her words for you,” said the robot. “The following words are not mine, they are hers.”
The crowd settled down and listened.
“Thank you, island animals, for saving Roz! Without your help she would have died here long ago. But you were not only her rescuers, you were also her teachers. You taught her to be wild, and she needed all of her wildness to survive, both in your world and in mine.
“As I look around at this wild paradise, I finally understand why Roz tried so hard to get back here. She does not belong with robots and humans. She belongs here, on this island, with all of you.
“We cannot risk others learning about this place. That is why I will soon leave and never return. But I promise to keep your island a secret so that all of you can live in peace. And I will spend the rest of my days filled with wonder at the miracle that is our wild robot.”
The meadow fell silent.
A flurry of wingbeats, and Brightbill landed in the grass near Dr. Molovo. He gazed up at the woman, deep into her eyes, and then he bowed his head. Then the other geese in his flock bowed their heads. Crownpoint the buck bowed his head. Pinktail the opossum bowed. Mr. and Mrs. Beaver bowed. The lizards bowed, followed by the turtles and the frogs. Like a wave rolling through the crowd, more animals bowed until every head was lowered. They were showing respect for the woman who had created their dear friend Roz, and who had brought her back to them.
Dr. Molovo turned to Roz. “Do you understand why I can’t return?” she said, her eyes glistening. “It’s for your own good.”
“I understand,” said the robot. “I only wish we had gotten to know each other a little better.”
Dr. Molovo smiled and pulled Roz into a hug. She didn’t mind the robot’s coat of mud and grass. Wrapped in each other’s arms, they both felt something like love.
“You’re the wild robot,” said the woman. “Go be wild.”