44. Bob – January 2166 – Delta Eridani

After weeks of relative peace, a massive gorilloid offensive of thirty-one creatures attacks the Deltan settlement. Bob uses a buster drone to save Archimedes from a gorilloid and turns the tide of battle, but the Deltans suffer heavy casualties. Afterward, Bob discusses with his crew whether they should intervene further or allow the Deltans to relocate to their original flint source.

The chapter opens with the Deltans and Bob having grown complacent after weeks without gorilloid attacks. A large offensive of thirty-one gorilloids strikes the encampment, possibly driven by hunger as the Deltans' improved hunting with spears has reduced local game. Bob quickly contacts Marvin and Bender, increasing frame rates to discuss options. They launch buster drones from orbit, positioning them near Archimedes, the young Deltan Bob has become protective of. During the battle, the Deltans are outnumbered and a gorilloid breaks through their defensive line toward the women and children. Arnold, a large Deltan male, uses the hand axe Archimedes created to kill gorilloids with devastating effect, turning the battle. However, another gorilloid executes a successful feint and targets Archimedes directly. Bob, in a panic, jacks into a buster drone and accelerates to high speed, intercepting the gorilloid with catastrophic force that obliterates it and kills thirty Deltan warriors with fifteen more severely injured. The remaining gorilloids flee. Bob watches Archimedes investigate the impact site and begin excavating, then turns his attention to crew matters. Marvin suggests allowing the Deltans to relocate to their original flint source, which would be more defensible. Bob calls Luke and Bender to discuss their futures; both express disinterest in staying at Delta Eridani long-term and wish to pursue their own projects, while Marvin commits to remaining for now. The chapter ends with the crew returning to monitoring the colony.