The large hall was completely silent, save for the low hum of the massive server towers.
Maddox sat at the center of the large, circular meeting table. Four people sat around him, including Claire.
The usual relaxed, slouched posture of the young looking Commander was completely gone and he sat perfectly straight, radiating a cold, oppressive authority.
All five of them were staring at the massive holographic screens covering the main wall of the room. The screens displayed real-time footage of the swirling, deep blue portal of Grid 12.
Claire's red eyes were shaking as she looked at the energy readouts.
SLAM!
Maddox brought his heavy hand down on the table. The sound echoed like a gunshot in the silent room.
