The chamber was still shaking.
Cracks spread across the steel floor like veins, red emergency lights flashing through the smoke-filled air as alarms screamed from every direction.
But Alexander heard none of it.
His eyes were fixed on the shattered core.
On the place where Emily had disappeared.
Again.
His fists tightened.
Not this time.
He had lost her once.
He refused to lose her again.
Daniel was still staring at him like he had completely lost his mind.
"Let me understand this," Daniel said slowly, brushing dust off his jacket. "Your brilliant plan is to jump into an ancient cosmic prison after your emotionally unstable wife who may or may not be turning into a supernatural weapon?"
Alexander answered without hesitation.
"Yes."
Daniel stared.
Sophia sighed.
"I actually respect the stupidity."
Alexander ignored both of them.
He turned sharply toward the broken control systems, his voice cold.
"Can it be reopened?"
Daniel rubbed his face.
"Technically? Maybe."
