B4

Adrian pointed to the robot and asked Dr. Chang, “What is this all about?”

“Well, it is a long story. Have a seat.” They each pulled a chair and sat down.

“I used to work for NASA. I was involved in Project RX. We designed and built robots to be used in Mars. After I retired, I used my own savings and started this lab.”

“But, why here? In the middle of the strip?” Adrian asked.

“Good question. I thought of different places. But the tall buildings here served as a protection from the nuclear attack. The foundations of these buildings are solid. Also, my wife was the floor manager here. I was able to gain access.”

“So you knew that the nuclear war was going to happen?”

“Yes. It was a matter of time. People were so divided. The world was full of anger. It only took one person from one country to trigger the war.”

“I see that the two other robots were gone. What happened?” Adrian asked.

“My wife and my daughter were in it. They left yesterday.” Dr. Chang answered.

“They were in it? What does it mean?”

“It is complicated. But let me try my best to explain that to you.” Dr. Chang grabbed his water bottle and took a sip. He then gave the bottle to Adrian. “Here, have a sip of water.”