Page 140 of Broken Sentinel

We continue upward, using maintenance shafts to avoid main corridors whenever possible. Two levels up, we encounter another security checkpoint, this one automated rather than manned. The access panel requires both biometric verification and code sequence.

"Their credentials won't work here," I note, examining the security system. "Different clearance level."

Vex produces another device from his pack similar to the one Sara used on the drainage grate but more sophisticated. "Haven tech," he explains. "Designed specifically for Unity's biometric systems."

The device attaches to the access panel, projecting what appears to be a holographic overlay. Lines of code scroll across its small display as it works to bypass the security measures.

"Why do I get the feeling you've done this before?" I ask.

A hint of that predatory smile touches his lips. "Splinter security chief. Breaking into places is practically my job description."

The device beeps softly, security panel shifting from red to green. The door slides open, revealing a laboratory antechamber beyond.

"Decontamination chamber," I recognize, memories of my captivity providing useful intelligence. "Standard protocol requires full cycle before inner door opens."

We step inside, the outer door sealing behind us. Immediately, sterilization procedures activate, with UV light bathingthe chamber, followed by a fine mist of disinfectant compounds. My modifications process the chemicals without difficulty, though I note Vex's slight discomfort as his skin absorbs the unfamiliar substances.

"You okay?" I ask.

He nods tightly. "Predator adaptations don't appreciate being sterilized."

After a sixty-second cycle, the inner door unlocks with a pneumatic hiss. Beyond lies exactly what we've come for—Unity's primary genetic research laboratory.

The space is larger than I expected, gleaming white surfaces housing equipment I recognize from my time as a captive. Display screens show genetic sequences in constant motion, data flowing across monitors in hypnotic patterns. And at the center, a cylindrical structure containing what must be hundreds of sample containers, each glowing with faint blue illumination.

"Jackpot," I breathe, moving toward the sample storage. "This is it, their entire genetic library for Project Duality."

Vex moves to secure the room's other entry points while I approach the storage unit. Up close, I can see that each sample container bears an identification code, alphanumeric sequences that mean nothing to me until I spot one labeled "ZT-7."

My blood runs cold.

That's me.

Zara Thorne, subject seven.

"Found my samples," I report, voice tight. "Placing charges now."

I remove three explosive devices from my pack, carefully positioning them around the cylindrical storage unit. Each charge is designed to generate enough heat to destroy any biological material within its blast radius, while the combined detonation will structurally compromise the entire laboratory.

It’s not lost on me that in some ways I’m blowing up parts of myself.

As I work, Vex secures the room's data stations, placing his own charges at key points that will ensure complete destruction of Unity's research.

"Primary target secured," I confirm once all charges are in position. "Moving to secondary objective."

Our second target is one level down, the backup data storage where Unity maintains redundant copies of all research. We exit the laboratory through a maintenance access point, avoiding the main corridors where personnel would be concentrated at this early hour.

"Team Two reporting charges placed at infrastructure targets," Sara's voice comes through our comms, barely above a whisper. "Proceeding to extraction point."

"Acknowledged," I respond. "Team One on final objective. ETA twelve minutes to extraction."

We're making good time, ahead of schedule despite the additional security measures. If the extraction team at Eastern Arcology is similarly successful, both missions could complete before Unity realizes the full scope of our operation.

The thought has barely formed when alarms suddenly blare throughout the facility.

"Security breach detected," an automated voice announces over the facility's communication system. "All personnel to containment stations. Repeat, security breach detected."

Vex and I exchange looks of alarm. "That's not for us," he says with certainty. "We haven't triggered any alerts."

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