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*Funny how life works.* Brightbill remembers those words as he watches the love of his life sitting protectively on four eggs, ready to hatch at any time. The mother of the next generation looks at her mate with love reflected in her eyes. *You will be a father soon,* she softly said, shifting her wings under.
Brightbill responds by holding her head with his wings and gently meeting her forehead with his. He replies lovingly, *I know.*
Brightbill remembers his encounter with a certain robot. A Rozzum Robot. 7134. Roz. Mom.
The goose grew up thinking Roz was his mother right after hatching. Together, they learned the dietary needs of a goose (with help from Fink, the fox), how to swim, and finally, how to fly. It was rough for many on the island who thought he was too weak--a runt or too weird. His mother is the monster! It was the words of an elder goose who helped Brightbill after learning about his biological family and when he needed encouragement before his first migration.
LONGNECK: This flight is a gift Roz has given you.
BRIGHTBILL: Yeah, I understand.
LONGNECK: No, you don't.
Do you see any other geese here your size?
The accident that killed your family saved you.
BRIGHTBILL: I never thought of it that way.
LONGNECK: Funny how life works.
Brightbill survived his first migration and became a leader of the group. He led them back to the island for the summer. When Fink told him Roz was still on the island, Brightbill went to find her and tell her what he really felt. It was almost losing his Mom forever that Brightbill had the courage to tell her, I love you, Mom.
Roz responds after returning online - I love you too- Let's go home.
Roz does not remain on the island, leaving to protect all the animals. She vowed to return when the time was right.
Now, three Springs later, Brightbill waits for Roz to return home while guarding his family. I see you soon, Mom. You will finally meet your daughter-in-law and grandkids.