Power cut.
Complete.
Darkness.
Backup systems activated instantly.
But the message was clear.
This was no longer observation.
It was pressure.
Security moved.
Positions locked.
All access points monitored.
Leo didn’t freeze.
He moved closer to Emily.
Instinct.
Protection.
“You stay behind me,” he said.
She nodded.
Daniel entered the room.
Calm.
Prepared.
“They’re testing,” he said.
“How far will they go?” Emily asked.
“As far as they need to,” he answered.
No comfort.
Only truth.
Minutes passed.
