Tifai stared with curiosity at this strange contraption. What was it? It looked somewhat human but, cold and empty.
“you are a machine yes?” tifai asked.
“indeed.” Thane answered.
Tifai pulled herself out of the water to reach for the robotic being as he leaned forward to allow contact. she pulled her hand back in alarm, he was warm, smooth and oddly alive. He felt as pleasant as sea glass. However, unlike sea glass, machines do not fair well in any water. He was to be her servant for the day, yes?
The mermaid folded her arms as she considered what he could do to help. Surely, he would spark and die if he got wet, no one would want that. Maybe have him play with the children as she cleaned up? No, as pretty as he was, he would scare them… the uncanny valley. She glanced around the beach in an attempt to find a safe task before her eyes landed on empty trash bags. That’s it!
“You would be helping me greatly if you pick up trash that those SLOBS left behind. Kindly, remind people they shouldn’t litter if you catch them okay?” tifai requested.
She slipped underwater for a moment before popping back up.
“is there anything you would like? Shells? Sea glass? Jewelry?” she asked tilting her head.
What could she give him for his help?