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"And go where?" another counters. "We've spent years building this community. The hydroponics, the defenses, the medical facilities—we can't just abandon everything."

"Better than being captured and processed!" someone else calls out.

The debate intensifies, fear sharpening words and raising voices. I sit silently, trying to process the implications. Unity is coming—not just for me, but for everyone here.

Because of me.

"There's another option," Trent says suddenly, pushing away from the wall. All eyes turn to him. "A counter-intelligence strategy."

The room falls silent. Despite everything, Trent's Sentinel authority still commands attention.

"We know Unity is tracking Zara's genetics specifically," he continues. "What if we used that to our advantage? Create a false trail leading away from Haven's Edge."

"You mean use me as bait," I say flatly.

Trent meets my gaze directly. "I mean giving us time to warn the other Haven children while protecting this settlement."

"And how exactly would this work?" Vex asks, skepticism evident.

"A small team moves quickly, leaving genetic markers in a pattern suggesting Zara is fleeing southeast. Meanwhile, the settlement enhances its concealment protocols and prepares defensive measures."

"And the warning to the other children?" Nora prompts.

"Transmitted through the sympathizer network using the genetic recognition codes Dr. Reid discovered. If we move quickly, we can alert them before Unity mobilizes."

The council debates the proposal, voices rising and falling around me. But I'm watching Trent—the confidence in his posture, the strategic mind working behind those gray eyes. He's in his element now, planning and protecting. Despite my lingering anger at his deception, I can't help but admire his capabilities.

"And who would comprise this team?" Nora asks finally.

"Myself," Trent says immediately. "I know Unity tactics better than anyone here. And Zara, obviously, since her genetic signature is essential."

"And me," Vex adds, surprising everyone. "You'll need someone who knows the wasteland territories beyond the settlement's usual range."

Trent's jaw tightens almost imperceptibly. "Three is manageable. Small enough to move quickly, large enough for basic security."

The council speaks in hushed tones among themselves. I find myself strangely calm despite the danger. Maybe it's the clarity that comes with immediate threat—no time to agonize over genetic destiny when survival is at stake.

"Very well," Nora concludes. "The three of you will depart tomorrow at dawn. Dr. Reid will prepare the genetic markers and communication codes tonight." She looks at me directly. "Zara, are you willing to do this? The risk is considerable."

Am I willing to risk my life to save others like me? To protect this community that's taken me in despite my history as a Sentinel? The question answers itself.

"Yes," I say simply. "I'll do it."

As the meeting breaks up, people scatter to their assignments with renewed purpose. I remain seated, processing the implications of the coming mission. Just me, Trent, and Vex—my past and my present, the two men who represent such different paths.

That's not going to be awkward at all.

"You didn't have to agree so readily," Trent says, approaching once most others have left.

"What choice do I have? Unity is coming for me specifically. I can't just hide while others face the consequences."

"Noble sentiment," Vex comments, joining us. "But Sentinel Boy is right about one thing—the risk is significant."

"Sentinel Boy?" Trent repeats, eyebrow raised.

Vex just grins in return.

"If you two are going to spend the entire mission sniping at each other, maybe we should rethink the team composition," I say, exasperated.