The main platform stretched ahead—
Cold.
Wide.
Quiet in a way that didn't match what lay above ground.
Don walked forward.
Charles kept pace beside him.
Winter followed a step behind, arms folded neatly across her front.
From below—
Faint.
Muted.
But clear to him—
Samantha.
Summer.
Soft sobs.
Uneven breaths.
They carried through the structure, slipping past layers, reaching him without effort.
He didn't slow.
Didn't turn.
His face stayed level as they reached the elevator.
The doors opened before they even stopped—
Ding—~
Winter hadn't moved.
Hadn't gestured.
It simply obeyed.
Don stepped in first.
Charles followed.
They turned—
Facing forward.
Winter remained just outside, standing at the threshold.
Her gaze rested on them.
"If you wish to return," she said, tone even, "I shall remain on standby at all times."
A brief pause.
"And should I perceive any danger, I will either inform you or commence emergency measures."
Don nodded once.
"You do that."
