章 60: Just Smarter Than You

The night air was cool, and the silence of the forest embraced us as Lily and I lay in the makeshift bed inside the portable hub. The soft hum of the hub's systems and the gentle rustle of leaves outside provided a strange comfort, but it was a fleeting respite amid our turbulent journey.

I drifted into a light sleep, the day's events replaying in my mind like a surreal dream. However, the tranquility was shattered when Ike's voice pierced through the quiet.

"Gideon, wake up. Intruders detected," Ike's robotic monotone cut through the peaceful atmosphere, jolting me awake.

I shot up, adrenaline surging through my veins. "What is it, Ike?" I asked, my senses alert.

"Multiple lifeforms approaching. Probability of hostile intent: high. Initiating defense protocols," Ike responded, and a holographic display appeared in the air, showing the approaching figures.