Our Goal Is the Stars and Seas

Alvin wasn't particularly bothered by the unexpected turn at the start of the trip. Having one more robot girl along hadn't affected his mood.

He told the kindhearted ladies about Alita, then found himself a room and went back to sleep.

After all, comforting a robot girl of fourteen or fifteen was a little difficult for him.

He could only hope the children's friendship and kindness would reach the hurt little girl and bring the smile back to her face.

When it came to that, Mr. Nick Caster was an expert. He always knew how to make people angry or happy.

This seemingly carefree kid was actually exceptionally sensitive and knew better than anyone how to get along with people. Nick was largely responsible for Richard and Mindy fitting in at the Peace Hotel so quickly.

He offered friendship to the shy, introverted Richard and coaxed the awkward Mindy's vitality out of her. He always knew how to get the kids buzzing with excitement.

Add little Ginny's silly enthusiasm, and you had the Peace Hotel's unbeatable friendship-making team.

When Alvin woke from his nap, just as he'd expected, the kids seemed to have forgotten their unhappy afternoon, and smiles were back on their faces.

Alita stood by the pool, watching Nick destroy the lipstick Mindy had secretly drawn on him. He then jumped into the water with a laugh to escape Mindy's pursuit, all the while rapping nonstop to drive her mad.

At last, a smile appeared on the pure-hearted robot girl's face. With a sly little grin, she crept up behind Ginny, who had a little duck-shaped swim ring around her waist and was circling the pool, cheering Nick on. Alita gave her a gentle push, sending her into the pool and blocking Nick's escape route at the same