The Helpful Robots ♦ By Robert Shea

The story of Rankin, who prided himself on knowing how to handle robots, but did not realize that the robots of the Clearchan Confederacy were subject to a higher law than implicit obedience to man.Short storyExcerpt They had come to pass judgment on him. He had violated their law--willfully, ignorantly, and very deliberately."Our people will be arriving to visit us today," the robot said."Shut up!" snapped Rod Rankin. He jumped, wiry and quick, out of the chair on his verandah and stared at a cloud of dust in the distance."Our people--" the ten-foot, cylinder-bodied robot grated, when Rod Rankin interrupted him."I don't care about your fool people," said Rankin. He squinted at the cloud of dust getting bigger and closer beyond the wall of kesh trees that surrounded the rolling acres of.......................................................................................This episode is brought to you by Zippix Nicotine Infused Toothpicks — a satisfying, discreet, and great-tasting way to curb cravings anytime, anywhere. Perfect for flights, events, restaurants, or anywhere smoking and vaping are banned. Zippix satisfies both nicotine cravings and the hand-to-mouth habit, with 6 long-lasting flavors in 2mg or 3mg strengths. Proudly made in the USA and one of the most cost-effective options out there. Not into nicotine? Try our caffeine or B12-infused picks for a boost. Zip more, smoke less — visit ZippixToothpicks.com and get 10% off your first order with code CREATOR. Must be 21+. Warning: Nicotine is an addictive chemical...............................................Look, most of the world today is designed to be safe. To be easy. To give you a cheap dopamine hit without any real effort or risk. But where's the challenge in that? Where's the real reward?

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