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His tactical awareness remains functional despite overwhelming pleasure and physical exhaustion.

Appreciation that escape requires more than desire or determination, that institutional systems designed to prevent exactly such outcomes continue operating despite successful pack bonding and territorial claiming.

As consciousness begins fading despite attempts to maintain awareness, a fleeting thought surfaces regarding the countdown timer.

What does the display show now?

How much time remains in our temporary sanctuary?

But the question dissolves as quickly as it forms, exhaustion claiming cognitive function despite curiosity about operational parameters and remaining safety duration.

THIRTY-ONE

THE SCENT OF FIRE

~RIOT~

The acrid smell of smoke infiltrates my consciousness like an unwelcome alarm, pulling me from the depths of the most satisfying sleep I've experienced in six years.

My eyes snap open with tactical precision that bypasses the gradual awakening normal humans might require, Alpha instincts immediately cataloging threats and environmental changes that could signal danger to my pack. The scent carries more than simple burning—there's something chemical underneath, institutional and deliberate rather than accidental fire or natural combustion.

Beside me, Jinx remains completely unconscious despite the growing atmospheric disturbance.

Her breathing comes deep and even, face peaceful in ways I rarely witnessed during our original navigation attempt six years ago. Exhaustion has claimed her so thoroughly that even Alpha pheromones and environmental threats fail to penetrate whatever recovery process her body demands after our marathon session.

The sight of her sleeping form sends warmth through my chest that has nothing to do with recent physical satisfaction.

Magenta and teal hair spread across institutional pillows like aurora captured in silk, features relaxed in genuine rest rather than the tactical alertness that typically marks her expression. Even unconscious, she radiates the same magnetic presence that drew me to her during that first encounter in the fighting pits.

Yet concern overrides appreciation as the smoke smell intensifies with each passing moment.

I sit up with fluid efficiency that minimizes disturbance to the bed while maximizing my ability to assess our current situation and potential threats. The secure room that provided sanctuary for our reunion now feels like a potential trap, safety transformed into vulnerability through changing environmental conditions.

Across the space, Sable moves with judicial precision that speaks to similar awareness and tactical assessment.

He's already dressed in what appears to be combat gear significantly superior to the basic clothing provided earlier—tactical pants with reinforced knee pads, the form-fitting shirt that allows full range of motion, and boots designed for extended movement across varied terrain. The equipment suggests institutional provision rather than personal possessions.

More importantly, he's in the process of carefully dressing Jinx's unconscious form with identical gear.

His movements carry gentle efficiency that prioritizes her comfort and dignity despite the obvious urgency building around us. Each adjustment of fabric demonstrates consideration for her current vulnerability while preparing for whatever challenges await beyond our temporary sanctuary.

The tactical vest he secures around her torso carries additional equipment—knife sheaths, ammunition pouches, and medical supplies that speak to comprehensive preparationfor extended engagement rather than simple corridor navigation.

Recognition hits with crystalline clarity as understanding develops regarding institutional methodology and strategic planning.

They're not just providing clothing but equipping us for comprehensive combat engagement and systematic survival. The gear represents investment in our continued existence rather than simple ceremonial provision or basic necessity fulfillment.

My own combat equipment waits folded nearby with precision that speaks to careful measurement and tactical consideration.

Similar tactical pants and reinforced shirt, boots that promise superior grip and ankle support, vest loaded with supplies that suggest extended mission parameters rather than simple level progression. The quality exceeds anything provided during previous navigation attempts.

But it's the weapons cache positioned near the door that truly captures attention and creates anticipation.

Modified firearms with enhanced stopping power, blade configurations designed for close-quarters combat, and even what appears to be explosive devices for barrier elimination or crowd control. Arsenal that transforms us from escaped subjects into a properly equipped tactical team.

The burning smell continues intensifying despite the closed door and institutional air filtration systems.

Chemical undertones suggest deliberate ignition rather than accidental fire—systematic burning that serves a specific purpose within institutional operations and level management. The scent carries notes that speak to organic matter rather than simple structural materials.