A Psalm for the Wild-Built (Monk & Robot, #1)

by Becky Chambers

“Oh, no, no, no. Those sorts of words are for people. Robots are not people. We’re machines, and machines are objects. Objects are its.” “I’d say you’re more than just an object,” Dex said. The robot looked a touch offended. “I would never call you just an animal, Sibling Dex.” It turned its gaze to the road, head held high. “We don’t have to fall into the same category to be of equal value.”

Mosscap placed its free hand on Dex’s shoulder. “I appreciate the intent. I really do. But if you don’t want to infringe upon my agency, let me have agency. I want to carry the tank.”

“So, the paradox is that the ecosystem as a whole needs its participants to act with restraint in order to avoid collapse, but the participants themselves have no inbuilt mechanism to encourage such behavior.” “Other than fear.”

“I think there’s something beautiful about being lucky enough to witness a thing on its way out.”

“I don’t understand,” Mosscap said. “Why is this so important?” Something in Dex prickled furiously at the question, a secretive creature that did not wish to be poked.