13. Bob – August 17, 2133 – En Route

Bob learns he has been selected as the controlling intelligence for a Von Neumann probe—an automated interstellar spacecraft capable of self-replication. After two days of successful simulation testing, Dr. Landers reveals this is the purpose of the entire evaluation process, and Bob begins training to manage multiple roamers and automated systems in preparation for his mission.

Dr. Landers pulls Bob out of a two-day subjective simulation where he performed exceptionally well, designing sophisticated monitoring interfaces. Two more candidates have been eliminated—one suffered a psychotic break, the other was deemed unsuitable by Minister Travis and subsequently purged. When Bob presses for information about his purpose, Dr. Landers asks about Bob's personality, specifically whether he considers himself a loner. Bob confirms this through an anecdote about the film Castaway, explaining he finds extended solitude preferable to constant social interaction. Dr. Landers then reveals the truth: Bob is being groomed to serve as the controlling intelligence for a Von Neumann probe, an automated interstellar spacecraft designed to build copies of itself as it explores star systems. Following this revelation, Bob begins practical training coordinating various sizes of roamers (robotic units) to complete complex tasks like reassembling a 3D printer. He learns to manage the roamers by setting clear parameters and avoiding micromanagement, allowing them to work efficiently. Bob experiences intense impatience to finish his training and begin studying the mission documents Dr. Landers has made available to him, viewing the opportunity as a dream assignment.