Expedition Westward

  ***

  Outside, the world seemed fresh and exciting as the robotic couple walked languidly, arm in arm, toward Dr. Rackenfauz’s building. Winston looked about with an expression of wonderment on his remade face. His blond hair and Nordic complexion fairly gleamed in the morning light – so different from the medium blue tones that Star was accustomed to seeing.

  “Everything looks so new!” Winston exclaimed.

  He stopped their progress by a tall picker weed. He fondled the leaves, stroked the tough stalk.

  “Even this plant is beautiful,” he said.

  Star squeezed an arm around his waist.

  “You’re beautiful, my love,” she said.

  Winston smiled, then looked up into the drab, smoggy sky.

  “I’ve never seen such a glorious sky,” he said. “Do you think there really is a heaven up there, Star?”

  “I don’t know,” Star said. “Let’s make our own down here.”

  They continued on.