章 47: The Flashback (4) The Bond

Mikhailis stirred awake, as if summoned by an internal alarm clock precisely at 4 AM. Despite only two hours of rest, he felt surprisingly refreshed. The calming frequency administered by Rodion during his sleep, along with the AI's advice on proper sleeping posture, had clearly worked wonders on him.

He glanced over at Elowen. She was still fast asleep, her face relaxed, her breathing steady. Mikhailis smiled softly at her, careful not to disturb her. She looked so serene, and he found himself admiring her for a moment longer before shifting quietly, trying not to make a sound.

The moment he was fully awake, the small monkey robot, controlled by Rodion, approached him. It moved swiftly, almost silently, with the herbal tea that Mikhailis drank every morning. The steam rose from the cup, the scent earthy and soothing, and Mikhailis accepted it with a nod, taking a careful sip.