BACK AT THE APARTMENT

"WELCOME home, Master," greeted by a blue-gray cat once they opened the door. 

Astrid bent down and picked the small mechanical cat.  "Was everything okay while we're away, Xiao Lan?"

"Yes, Master.  No one has come by.  Xiao Lan cleaned everyday so that when Master comes back, you will be comfortable."

"Good job," Astrid said, rubbing his cheek with Xiao Lan's.  Really, the AI robots of this era was truly the definition of high-end.  It felt like he was holding a real cat instead of a robotic one.

He walked inside with Xiao Lan in his arms, Reas followed behind.

"What do you want for lunch, Reas?  I'll go and quickly prepare." 

He put down Xiao Lan and walked to the kitchen.  He was about to put on his apron when he realized that he still hadn't heard his brother's answer.  He turned back and saw that Reas just slumped on the couch.  He looked rather listless, as if he was thinking of something quite important.