Chapter 19: Trigger Protocol
The morning sun had barely risen over Sector 18 when the alarm blared.
System Alert – Level Crimson
Unauthorized perimeter breach detected.
Origin: Eastern Watchtower – Gridline Delta-7
Jaden sprinted through the Command Spire with Carl and Dani at his heels. Lyra’s voice cut through the hallway intercoms. "Kinetic disturbance detected near the watchtower’s auxiliary entrance. Stealth field briefly disabled before the breach. One signature. Unidentified."
By the time they reached the Spire’s surveillance deck, a security feed displayed scorched sand, a snapped turret, and—
"She’s inside," Dani whispered. "Who the hell breaches a double-scan turret zone?"
Jaden studied the slowed footage. One frame held a blurry silhouette—tall, armored, methodical. Kess. No doubt.
"She’s not here to warn us," Carl said. "She’s here to kill."
Jaden keyed in the override codes.