The underground network hummed like a living organism.
Tunnels stretched farther than Kane had originally planned. Conveyor lines carried materials automatically, welding stations operated on constant cycles, and hundreds of machines moved with perfect synchronization.
The construction droids were no longer limited to digging—they manufactured components for new units, reinforced tunnels, and preassembled modular sections of the base. Humanoid caretaker androids patrolled designated zones, their attention fixed entirely on the child. Each one moved with precise, almost unnatural efficiency, correcting small errors without hesitation.
Kane walked along the upper platform, eyes scanning schematics projected in his mind. The AI had integrated real-time data from every machine. He could see exactly which tunnels were stable, which droids required maintenance, and which sectors were ready for expansion.
"Phase One complete," the AI announced.
"All primary construction and support systems fully operational. Secondary production is now online."
Kane's expression didn't change.
He looked down at the assembly lines, where new construction droids were being fabricated automatically. They moved off the lines immediately to reinforce tunnels, expand corridors, and transport materials to assembly points. Production was endless, precise, unstoppable.
"Supply chains optimized?" Kane asked.
"Yes. All deliveries scheduled and routed through secure fronts. Resource acquisition will remain undetected aboveground," the AI replied.
Kane exhaled, almost silently.
Everything he had planned was coming together faster than even he had anticipated. With the base now fully operational, he didn't need to leave, didn't need to risk exposure. He could expand, replicate, and dominate the subterranean space entirely from here.
The child slept nearby, guarded by two humanoid caretakers. Their sensors never left her. Kane didn't glance at them; he didn't need to. He trusted the AI to maintain her safety. He didn't need to think about it.
And yet, the system silently prioritized her above all else, calculating threats Kane couldn't even anticipate. The AI monitored every structural integrity reading, every power fluctuation, every potential breach in real-time.
He had created a world under the city—a machine-made sanctuary ready to survive the apocalypse. A world where he didn't need anyone, and no one would betray him.
Kane turned back to the platform, watching the synchronized ballet of metal and motion.
Soon, the rest of the world would descend into chaos.
And when it did, he would be ready.
Machines built. Base complete. Strategy locked.
The future was no longer uncertain—it was under his control.