Chapter 13 · You changed the regulator

He forced his burned hand beneath the rifle's frame and found the small brass regulator he had installed earlier. It was loose. Too loose.

Someone had turned it.

Kael's jaw locked. "You changed the regulator."

"I didn't touch it."

"You were the only one in the room."

"And you were the only person who knew the weapon was here."

"I didn't change it."

"Then somebody did."

The words sat between them for a beat.

From beyond the iron door came a dull knock.

Sloane's head turned. Her hand stayed on Kael's neck.

Another knock followed. Three taps. Then two.

Her face went still.

"What is that?" Kael asked.

"A patrol signal."

"Your patrol?"

"No."

"You said this room was sealed."

"It is."

"Then your friends are very good at knocking through walls."

Sloane drew the rifle back against her side. The barrel pointed toward the door.

Kael caught her sleeve. "Don't fire."

"They're coming in."

"The weapon is charged."

"Then hide behind me."

"I'd rather stand behind a collapsing bridge."

"You have another idea?"

"Several. Most involve you listening."

"That would be a new experience for you."

The patrol tapped again.

Sloane's face changed. Not fear. Calculation.