Chapter 55 · Ask me after we survive this

She fired past his shoulder. A soldier dropped behind him.

"Ask me after we survive this."

"That's not the answer."

"It's the only one you get."

"You're stealing my line."

"Then stop saying useful things."

The next wave came through the breach.

They didn't shout. They didn't hurry. They moved with the same measured pace, metal boots stepping over their fallen teammates. Some carried riot shields. Others carried compact cannons with thick cables running into their backs.

Reid looked at the weapons, then at the seal.

The gold column had widened. The unknown shape beyond the broken ring pressed closer. It had no clear face, only a tall outline behind the light. Its hand remained on the other side, fingers curled around nothing.

But Reid could feel it reaching for him.

Not attacking.

Calling.

"Reid." Mira's voice cut through the noise. "Don't look at it."

"Why?"

"Because it wants you to."

"You know what it is?"

"No."

"You sound sure."

"I'm sure it isn't your friend."

A soldier slammed a shield into Reid's chest.

He flew backward and hit the edge of the core platform. The impact drove the air from his lungs.