They stepped through the metal doorway and entered another long corridor. This one felt different—cleaner, colder, and strangely newer than the rest of the facility.
The lights overhead weren't broken or flickering.
They were bright.
Stable.
Purposefully kept alive.
The Knight looked around. "He maintains this area."
Asher nodded. "Means we're close."
The air smelled sharp—like chemical coolant and burnt circuits. The entire hallway hummed with power, a low vibration that traveled through their boots.
Asher walked forward with calm steps.
"He's expecting us," he said.
The Knight tightened his grip on his sword. "Good. I'm ready."
They reached a wide chamber door sealed with a glowing red lock. A scanner flickered and projected a message:
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY.
LEVEL OMEGA ACCESS REQUIRED.
Asher stared at it for one second.
Then he punched the lock panel.
Sparks flew. The metal bent inwards and the light died instantly.
The huge door slid open with a loud groan.
