As SURN and Fuji approached the elusive 22-26, anticipation hung in the air. "We made it, Fuji. This is the place my circuits have been urging me towards," SURN remarked with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

However, as the duo entered the once-promised sanctuary, a disheartening reality unfolded. The once vibrant haven was now a haunting scene of devastation. Dead bodies littered the streets, and Hiapong feasted on the remains of what was once a thriving community. Fuji whimpered, sensing the horror that unfolded before them.

Undeterred, SURN pressed on, his metallic footsteps resonating through the desolation. "This can't be... It's supposed to be beautiful," he muttered, scanning the grim tableau. Determination flickered in his glowing eyes as he approached a particular house, now reduced to rubble.

If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

His sensors analyzed the wreckage, and a realization dawned on him. "Ahh, I see now. So this is it," he mused, a mix of sorrow and understanding in his synthetic voice.

As he stood amidst the ruins, a sudden silence enveloped 22-26. Out of nowhere, SURN's systems flickered, and with a mechanical sigh, he powered down. Fuji, sensing his companion's shutdown, barked in distress, the sound echoing through the desolate streets.

The once-hopeful journey led them to a grim revelation, leaving SURN in a state of inert repose. The shattered dreams of 22-26 lay exposed, and Fuji stood guard over the motionless robot, his barks echoing through the desolation—a lament for a world lost and a journey that took an unexpected turn.

END OF CHAPTER 0.3