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As we board, Elle approaches with final instructions.

"Infiltration point is a maintenance tube on the eastern arcology's lower level," she explains, handing Trent a small data chip. "This contains access codes and guard rotation schedules from our sympathizers inside."

"Extraction route?" I ask.

"Same entry point if possible," she answers. "If compromised, there's a secondary exit through the water treatment facility. All marked on the schematics."

"And the Haven child?" Trent asks. "Any information on their condition?"

Her expression grows troubled. "Limited. We know they're being held in Medical Isolation Unit 7. Reports suggest early-stage modification manifestation, likely why Unity hasn't transferred them to the research facility yet."

"Name?" I ask. "Anything to help us identify them?"

"Designation in Unity records is Subject 23. Original identity unknown." She hands me a small device. "This will help. It's keyed to detect the specific genetic markers your mother built into all Haven children."

I pocket the device, determination settling over me like armor. Another child of Haven, someone like me, trapped inUnity's sterile prison. Not for long if I have anything to say about it.

"Communications will be limited once you're inside," she continues. "Arcology shielding blocks most frequencies. Check-in only at designated points."

We confirm our understanding of the mission parameters as the transport powers up, engines humming with restrained energy.

"If you're not at extraction point Alpha within the designated window, we'll implement contingency protocols," she concludes. "May the odds favor the adaptive."

The old Splinter blessing seems fitting as our transport moves out, leaving the safety of the Old Refuge behind. Ahead lies Eastern Arcology, a place I've visited only twice during my Sentinel career, known for its particularly rigid interpretation of Unity protocols.

We're heading straight into the heart of enemy territory, three fugitives attempting to extract a high-value prisoner from one of Unity's most secure facilities.

The odds don't just need to favor us. They need to perform miracles.

As the landscape blurs past, I find myself studying my companions—Trent's profile as he reviews facility schematics, Vex's focused intensity as he navigates the difficult terrain. These two men, so different yet both willing to risk everything for this mission. For me.

Whatever happens in Eastern Arcology, one thing is certain: we're in this together, former Sentinel, Splinter, and whatever I am becoming.

Unity should be very, very afraid.

CHAPTER 21

Eastern Arcology loomslike a monolith against the dawn sky. Unlike the sleek curves of Central, this structure is all sharp angles and imposing walls. Unity's philosophy made physical. No beauty, only function.

"Charming place," Vex mutters as we approach the maintenance access point. "Very inviting."

Our transport is hidden two kilometers back, concealed in the ruins of what was once a shopping complex. We've covered the remaining distance on foot, using the broken terrain for cover.

"Security checkpoint ahead," Trent warns, scanning with specialized binoculars. "Two guards, standard rotation."

I study the access tube that will be our entry point—a drainage conduit extending from the arcology's lower levels, designed to channel waste water into processing facilities. Hardly glamorous, but Elle's intelligence confirmed it's our best option for undetected entry.

"They've upgraded the sensor grid," I note, spotting the telltale shimmer of new surveillance technology. "Motion and thermal detection."

"Can you bypass it?" Vex asks Trent.

Trent nods, already retrieving equipment from his pack. "Give me three minutes."

As he works, I take inventory of my body's condition. The suppression compound has almost completely cleared my system. My modifications respond readily now, senses sharp, muscles primed. I feel strong, balanced.

Whole.

"How's the predator adaptation?" I ask Vex quietly.