Diego scanned the faces before him in the main briefing room. The holographic display cast an ethereal blue glow across their features, highlighting the tension in their expressions. Luna's popping her gum but ready to take notes. Even Jack, usually quick with a smartass comment, sat silent and focused.
"Let's get started," Diego said, activating the holographic display. A three-dimensional image of Haven materialized behind him, showing rolling hills and pristine forests. "This is our destination. Dr. Smith's drone reconnaissance confirms it's habitable and unoccupied."
The quantum gateway schematics appeared next, rotating slowly in the air. Diego watched his team lean forward, studying the complex machinery that would be their lifeline.
"The Pacific Ring's gone active," Diego continued, his voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "We don't know how long we have before things get worse. What we do know is our capacity - two hundred forty people, maximum. That's non-negotiable due to the rare earth elements required for portal operation."
A murmur rippled through the room. Diego caught glimpses of concern, of mental calculations as people likely wondered about family members they couldn't save. He understood their pain - he'd made similar choices in combat, decisions that still haunted him.
"I know it's not enough," Diego acknowledged, meeting their gazes. "But it's what we've got. Every person we save is one more who gets a second chance. Let's make it count."
Diego stepped closer to the holographic display, adjusting it to show the facility's perimeter. The blue light cast harsh shadows across his weathered face as he traced the defensive positions with a practiced eye.
"Security isn't just about guns and guards," he said, his voice carrying the weight of decades of combat experience. "It's about coordination. Communication. Every person in this room needs to understand their role."
A low murmur rose from the back of the room. Diego caught fragments of worried whispers about the Pacific earthquakes, about family members still out there.
"I hear your concerns," Diego said, holding up his hand. "Those tremors aren't just hitting the Pacific. They're hitting close to home. But that's exactly why we need to stay focused."
He zoomed in on the facility's entrance points, highlighting the automated defense systems. "Captain Johnson's team has established security check points at every access point is covered by both human and electronic surveillance. Luna's quantum communication array ensures we maintain contact even if conventional systems fail."
The tension in the room began to ease. Diego noticed shoulders relaxing, heads nodding as the team absorbed the structured approach.
"We've got Emily's drones providing constant aerial coverage," he continued, switching the display to show the patrol patterns. "And Jack's power grid improvements mean we can maintain full defensive capabilities even if the main grid goes down."
Someone raised their hand - one of the newer technicians. "But what if-"
"There will always be 'what ifs,'" Diego cut in, his tone firm but not unkind. "I've seen enough wars to know that plans rarely survive first contact. That's why we train. That's why we prepare. And that's why each of you needs to know not just your job, but the jobs of those around you."
Diego stepped back from the holographic display, gesturing to Dr. Smith. "Now for the critical part - portal safety protocols."
Olivia stepped forward, her lab coat wrinkled from hours of work. Diego noticed dark circles under her eyes - she'd probably been up all night running tests again. The holographic display shifted to show detailed quantum readings and test results.
"First, the Portal, We ran another round of tests on the rat and everything is normal, he has even reproduced, fetal samples extracted from the doe appears normal as well," Olivia said, pulling up an image of the portal location in Haven.
"We haven't gotten samples of local toxins," Olivia continued, adjusting the holographic display to show various charts and graphs. "We haven't encountered any intelligent life, and we haven't encountered any large predators. That doesn't mean they don't exist."
She paused, her expression tightening. "Today marks our first human transport test since..." She swallowed hard. "Since we lost Richard. We've made significant improvements since then. The containment field is more stable, and we've successfully transported several test animals through with zero complications."
Diego noticed the subtle tremor in her hands as she adjusted the display.
"So what are we walking into, exactly?" Jack asked, breaking the silence. His cybernetic leg tapped against the floor, a reminder of battles fought and sacrifices made.
"We're walking into a mystery," Olivia replied, her voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of caution. "The environment is habitable based on initial scans. The air is breathable, and the water appears to be safe for consumption. But until we get boots on the ground and start collecting data, we can't be certain."
Diego nodded, appreciating Olivia's candor. The team needed honesty more than reassurance right now. He turned his attention to Emily.
"How's our drone coverage looking?" he asked.
Emily straightened in her seat, her fingers tapping on her tablet as she brought up a new set of holographic images. "We've got continuous aerial surveillance over a eight click radius around the portal site," she said. "No signs of large animal movement or significant changes in vegetation patterns."
Diego considered this. It was something, at least—a small comfort in an ocean of uncertainty.
Diego noticed Johnson's brow furrow as he leaned forward, his tactical mind catching something the rest had missed.
"Dr. Smith, if we are limited to twelve more portals how are we maintaining drone coverage?" Johnson's question cut through the room like a knife.
Diego shifted his attention to Olivia, noting the slight smile that crept across her face. He'd seen that expression before - it was the same look she got when someone finally asked the right question.
"That's where Emily's innovation comes in," Olivia said, nodding to the drone pilot. "Emily, would you like to explain?"
Emily stood up, her tablet projecting a new set of schematics. Diego recognized the basic drone design, but there were modifications he'd never seen before.
"The drones we're using aren't coming back," Emily explained, highlighting several components. "They're designed for one-way trips. Each unit carries enough battery power for about seventy-two hours of operation. Once deployed, they transmit data through quantum-entangled particles embedded in their core processors."
Diego watched Johnson's expression shift from confusion to understanding. The captain had always been quick to grasp tactical advantages.
"So we're not wasting portal energy bringing them back," Johnson said, nodding slowly. "Smart."
"Exactly," Emily confirmed. "We can maintain continuous coverage by launching new units as needed, without requiring additional portal activations for retrieval."
Diego felt a surge of pride in his team's ingenuity. It was exactly this kind of creative problem-solving that would give them an edge in establishing Haven.
"What about defensive measures?" Captain Johnson chimed in, his voice carrying the weight of years spent safeguarding others.
"We'll set up perimeter defenses immediately upon arrival," Diego answered. "Drones will handle aerial surveillance while ground units establish checkpoints and barriers. We treat this like any other hostile environment until proven otherwise."
Olivia gave a nod of agreement before addressing Luna directly. "Luna, you'll be critical in maintaining communication links back to Cove HQ and ensuring our data flow remains uninterrupted."
Luna popped her gum and flashed a thumbs-up. "You got it. I'll make sure we're connected no matter what."
Diego felt a small surge of confidence seeing his team rallying together despite the uncertainties ahead. He knew they were capable, each member handpicked for their skills and resilience.
"I believe," Olivia began, her voice measured, "to minimize exposure, we should have just one individual make the initial crossing."
"With all due respect," Captain Johnson interjected, "I suggest we send a three-person fireteam. If there's any hostile presence on the other side, they will be able to leverage additional firepower and extract if needed."
"The energy requirements for three..." Olivia started.
"Are within acceptable parameters," Luna interrupted, her fingers flying over her tablet. "I've run the calculations, the generator and zpe upgrades that Alexis and Jack did are working great."
Diego exchanged glances with Olivia. The room fell silent, waiting for their decision. He thought about Richard, about the risks, about everything they'd built here.
"Three-person team," Diego said firmly. "Full tactical gear"
Olivia nodded slowly.
Captain Johnson taps his comms. "Williams and Carter with me full tactical"
With a quick glance in his direction, she said, "Sir, give us ten."
"Alright, Luna, let's get it prepped," Olivia said, her voice carrying a mix of determination and fatigue. She glanced at Diego, a silent nod acknowledging the gravity of the task ahead.
Diego followed them out of the room, his footsteps echoing in the hallway. He kept a close watch on Olivia and Luna as they led the way to the Control Room. The facility buzzed with subdued energy, technicians and scientists moving with purpose.
"Diego," Olivia called over her shoulder, "I need you to coordinate with Captain Johnson once we get to the portal room, let us know when they are ready."
"Roger that," Diego replied, his mind already running through the contingencies. He'd worked with Johnson's team before; they were solid, dependable. But this mission was different, unknown variables could turn any moment into chaos.
As they entered the Control Room, Diego was hit by a wave of cool air. Holographic displays flickered to life, bathing the room in an eerie blue glow. Technicians manned their stations, eyes glued to monitors displaying real-time data from Haven.
"Luna, start the portal sequence," Olivia ordered.
"On it," Luna replied, fingers dancing over her console. She pulled up schematics and began inputting commands with practiced ease.
"Sir, fire team is suited up and heading to the embarkation room," Johnson's voice crackled over the comms.
Olivia moved to a central console and began running diagnostics on the gateway's stability field. Diego watched her closely; her expertise was undeniable, but he couldn't shake the feeling of walking a tightrope without a safety net.
"Luna, status update?" Olivia asked without looking up.
"Stabilizers are holding steady," Luna replied. "Portal is powering up—90%...95%...and... we're green."
Olivia finally looked up from her console and met Diego's gaze. "We do this right, we save lives."
"We do this right," Diego echoed firmly.
The room fell silent for a brief moment as everyone steeled themselves for what came next. The hum of machinery filled the air as the portal shimmered to life on one of the displays—a swirling vortex of energy that promised both hope and danger.
Diego took a deep breath, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders once more. This was it—the culmination of months of planning and preparation. He glanced around at his team—Luna focused on her screens, Olivia adjusting parameters—and felt a surge of determination.
"Let's make it count," he muttered under his breath before turning back to his console, ready to coordinate every step of this critical operation.
Trio of soldiers - Johnson, Williams, and Carter - marched into the control area decked out in combat equipment. Their armaments gleamed and their protective suits looked spotless, nothing like the filthy, battle-worn gear he recalled from their time fighting in the Mineral Wars.
"Listen up," Diego said, pulling up the Haven terrain map. "This is a recon mission. You go in, secure the immediate area, and report back. No heroics, no extended exploration. Twenty minutes max."
The holographic display cast harsh shadows across Johnson's face as he studied the topographical readout. Diego recognized that focused expression - the same one Johnson wore before every critical mission.
"Standard three-man," Johnson said, gesturing to his team. "Williams on point, Carter covering our six. Comms check every two minutes. If we lose contact, immediate extraction protocol."
Diego nodded. The setup was textbook, just like old times. He'd trained these men himself, watched them execute countless missions. But this was different - they weren't dropping into another war zone. They were stepping into another dimension entirely.
"Questions?" Diego asked.
"Rules of engagement?" Williams adjusted his tactical vest, checking the magazine in his rifle.
"Defensive posture only," Diego replied. "If you encounter any wildlife, document and avoid. If you encounter any sentients..." He paused, letting the gravity of that possibility sink in. "Fall back to the portal point and extract."
Johnson stepped forward, his gear rattling slightly. "Team, gear check. Williams?"
"Locked and loaded."
"Carter?"
"Communications array active, backup power cells charged. Medical kit prepped."
Johnson turned to Diego. "Sir, we're ready."
Diego studied their faces - these men he'd fought beside, bled beside. They weren't just soldiers anymore. They were pioneers, about to step into unknown territory that could be humanity's last hope.
"Remember," Diego said, "this isn't about being heroes. It's about coming back with the intel we need. Clear?"
"Crystal," the team responded in unison.
Diego followed the fireteam down the sterile corridor leading to the embarkation room, their boot steps echoing off the metal walls. The familiar weight of his sidearm pressed against his hip - a habit he couldn't shake even here. Johnson led his team with the same precise movements Diego had seen countless times in combat zones across the globe.
"Just like old times, eh?" Williams adjusted his tactical vest, the gesture masking what Diego recognized as pre-mission jitters. "Except usually we're dropping into some hellhole, not another dimension."
Carter chuckled, the sound slightly muffled by his gear. "Hell, after the Mineral Wars, another dimension might be an improvement."
"Cut the chatter," Johnson said, but Diego caught the slight smile on his old friend's face. These men had faced death together more times than they could count. Their banter wasn't unprofessional - it was the voice of brotherhood forged in combat.
"Remember Bangalore?" Williams said, checking his rifle's action for the third time. "When Carter got his ass stuck in that drainage pipe?"
"That wasn't my fault," Carter protested. "The intel said it was wider."
"Your ass said otherwise," Johnson joined in, his shoulders relaxing slightly.
They reached the embarkation room's heavy doors. Dr. Smith stood waiting. Her eyes met Diego's, conveying a mix of scientific precision and genuine concern for the men about to test her life's work.
Johnson squared his shoulders, the levity of moments ago replaced by focused determination. Williams and Carter fell into position behind him, their movements synchronized by years of working together. Diego saw the same look in their eyes he'd seen before every major operation - that mix of tension and resolve that marked true professionals.
Olivia gave them a final, encouraging nod as the massive doors slid open with a pneumatic hiss.
The gateway's energy field shimmered like heat waves rising from desert sand. The sight reminded him of mirages he'd seen during the Water Wars - beautiful, deadly, and completely unnatural. His hand instinctively touched his sidearm, a habit born from decades of combat.
Johnson's team stood ready, their gear creating dark silhouettes against the portal's ethereal glow. None of them shifted or fidgeted - they were too well-trained for that. But Diego noticed the slight tension in their shoulders, the way their hands gripped their weapons just a fraction tighter than necessary.
From her position at the control console, Olivia's fingers slid across the control interface. The machinery around them hummed deeper, a sound Diego felt in his bones. He'd heard plenty of equipment in his time - generators, engines, weapon systems - but this was different.
"Quantum field stabilizing," Olivia announced, her voice steady despite the strain evident on her face. "Containment at optimal levels."
The portal's glow intensified, changing from a shimmer to a steady, brilliant light that cast harsh shadows across the embarkation room. The energy field stopped wavering and settled into a smooth, mirror-like surface.
"Portal is stable and ready," Olivia said, looking up from her console. "All readings are in the green."
Diego felt the change in the air - a subtle pressure difference that made his ears pop. The room seemed to hold its breath, and even the usual background hum of the facility seemed muted in the presence of the active gateway.
Diego noticed Johnson lift his fist, the gesture to stay put. The captain's actions were deliberate, measured - precisely what Diego anticipated from a seasoned warrior. With a flurry of swift hand motions, Johnson instructed Williams and Carter to take their positions.
The three-man team approached the portal's shimmering surface. Diego's hand tightened on his sidearm, muscle memory from countless combat drops kicking in even though he wasn't going through himself. The ethereal light cast harsh shadows across Johnson's determined expression.
The team reached the portal's edge. Diego held his breath as William's shoulder touched the energy field. The Sergeant's form seemed to stretch and twist, like something from a fun house mirror room. Johnson and Carter followed, their bodies elongating impossibly as they passed through.
Diego's stomach lurched in sympathy as he watched the disorienting transition. The portal's light bent around them, fracturing into a spectrum of colors he'd never seen before. Their forms wavered, stretched, compressed - like watching a video feed through scrambled signals. For a moment, Diego could see all three men suspended in that otherworldly light, their tactical gear refracting the strange energies around them.
The sensation of wrongness hit Diego even as an observer - that gut-deep feeling that humans weren't meant to see space bend this way. He'd jumped from the edge of space once, but this was different. This was watching reality itself fold around his men.
Through the surveillance display, Diego observed Williams take shape from the surreal vortex of radiance and power, his body solidifying into existence. The others, Johnson and Carter, appeared moments after, their combat equipment reflecting the glow of an otherworldly star. He marveled at how crisp the transmission looked - sharp and pristine, more like gazing through transparent glass than viewing across the boundaries between realities.
Johnson's voice crackled through the comm system. "Sierra One in position. Area secure." A pause as the captain turned in place, his helmet camera sweeping the landscape. "You seeing this, sir?"
Diego was. The rolling hills stretched toward a distant horizon, covered in vegetation that looked almost Earth-like, but not quite. The colors were too vivid, the shapes of the leaves just different enough to seem wrong. Sunlight poured through scattered clouds, bathing everything in a warm glow that reminded him of Mexican summers from his childhood.
"Confirming visual," Diego replied, studying the feed intently. "Air quality readings?"
"All green," Williams reported. "Oxygen levels slightly higher than Earth standard. There's some kind of perfume in the air - sweet, like flowers, but nothing I recognize."
Diego watched Carter through the video displays as he checked the area around them. Unfamiliar sounds drifted through the air - a mix of avian-like calls and completely alien noises. The strange chorus made his skin prickle with unease. His years of military experience had taught him to respect such gut feelings about unfamiliar environments.
"Getting audio signatures from multiple creatures," Carter said, maintaining his professional demeanor in the face of the extraordinary. "No visual contact at this point. Sources scattered across different bearings at various ranges."
He shifted forward in his seat, eyes searching the dense flora for any hints of motion. Everything looked untamed and virgin - devoid of any hints that intelligent beings had ever set foot here. The verdant hillsides stretched endlessly beneath the dazzling firmament.
Through the camera system, he monitored Johnson's squad as they advanced warily into the open space. The plant life around them defied any earthly description - enormous trees with self-illuminating foliage reached skyward, their cores coiling up like spiral strands of crystal. At ground level, smaller specimens emitted a soft radiance, casting an eerie luminescence even under the midday sun.
"Sir, you need to see this," Johnson's voice crackled through the comm. His helmet camera panned across a pristine lake that stretched toward the horizon, its surface mirror-smooth and reflecting the alien sky with perfect clarity.
Through Carter's feed, Diego spotted movement in the underbrush. Something about the size of a large dog emerged partially, its iridescent scales catching the sunlight. The creature tilted what appeared to be its head, studying the team with multiple eyes that reflected like polished copper.
"Unknown fauna, two o'clock," Carter reported calmly. "No aggressive behavior noted."
Johnson signal the team forward, their movements precise and practiced despite the alien environment. They maintained their triangle formation as they advanced, marking potential choke points and defensive positions in their path.
"Multiple cave formations to the north," Williams reported. "Natural shelter possibilities. Ground's firm enough for vehicle transport."
"Emily, launch the scout drone," Diego ordered. "Let's get a better look at what we're dealing with."
The drone's feed appeared on a separate monitor, rising above the canopy. The aerial view revealed the true scale of their surroundings - the lake was part of a larger network of waterways, and the clearing they'd arrived in sat at the edge of what appeared to be a vast forest valley.
"Maybe it's not obvious to say but no gps is going to make navigation hard.," Emily reported with practiced efficiency. "We'll definitely require orbital surveillance to assist with proper mapping." She continued her assessment: "Despite the dense vegetation, adequate space exists for establishing our operations center. Initial sweeps show no indications of dangerous wildlife or man-made constructions within the scan perimeter."
Diego watched the drone feed intently, his mind already mapping out defensive positions and infrastructure needs. The alien landscape held both promise and hidden dangers - he'd seen enough combat zones to know that beauty often masked deadly surprises.
He pressed his comm link. "Kaito, can you get your hands on a miniature launch vehicle and some constellation satellites for location and mapping?"
The holographic display flickered as Kaito's image materialized. His usual sharp business attire was rumpled, and Diego spotted what looked like concrete dust on his shoulder - aftermath of the recent earthquakes.
"Interesting request, old friend." Kaito's lips curved into a slight smile. "As it happens, I acquired several decommissioned APU micro-launchers last month. The satellites might be trickier - the exodus program has priority on most navigation equipment."
"We need eyes up there," Diego insisted, gesturing at the drone footage. "These teams can't operate blind in unknown territory."
Kaito nodded, his expression turning thoughtful. "I may have a solution. The Nexus has connections with a satellite manufacturer in Singapore. They're sitting on a stockpile of outdated but functional units. Not as precise as military-grade, but they'll give us basic positioning and mapping capabilities."
"How soon?"
"Give me 48 hours. I'll need to move some assets around discreetly. The recent seismic activity has everyone jumpy - security's tighter than usual."
Diego glanced back at the monitor showing Johnson's team carefully documenting the alien flora. They needed those satellites before any serious exploration could begin. "Make it happen, Kaito. Thanks."
Diego studied the monitor displays with sharp focus, his years of battlefield instincts urging him to search beyond the scenic facade. "What's your assessment of those caverns, Johnson?"
"The edges are precise, Commander. More precise than nature typically forms." Johnson shifted his camera to survey the cave openings. "Might be from air currents wearing them down, but..."
"Or artificial means," Diego concluded. His time in war zones had taught him that perfection often signaled danger. Still, this location stirred old feelings within him - recollections of his homeland before conflict took over, when wilderness still dominated the landscape.
The strange creature with copper eyes had retreated into the underbrush, leaving only shifting leaves in its wake. Diego studied the movement patterns through Carter's feed. Not aggressive, but not afraid either. Curious, maybe. Intelligence was another question entirely.
"Mark those cave positions," Diego ordered. "Emily, keep that drone running wide sweeps. I want to know if anything bigger than that scaled friend of ours is calling this place home."
Through Williams' camera, the alien sun caught the bioluminescent trees, sending cascades of light through their twisted trunks. The effect was mesmerizing, almost peaceful. Diego forced himself to focus on the tactical implications rather than the beauty. Those glowing trees would make night operations interesting - both for visibility and for cover.
Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.
"Lake water samples," Diego reminded them. "And soil from at least three different locations. Dr. Smith needs to know what we're working with."
The team moved with practiced efficiency, but Diego noticed their movements weren't quite as sharp as usual. This place had a way of drawing the eye, of making you want to stop and stare. Beautiful, yes - but beauty could kill you just as dead as ugly if you weren't careful.
"Status report," Diego announced. "We've been here ten minutes. Stay alert, people."
Emily controlled the UAV with the expertise that came from countless hours of operation. "Those narrow tunnels would be ideal for one of our miniature reconnaissance drones," she suggested. "We designed the latest models specifically for tight quarters."
"Make it happen," Diego agreed, his attention locked on the monitoring screen. The responsibility of leadership pressed down on him while he tracked Johnson's squad holding their security perimeter.
Johnson's voice crackled through the comm. "Williams, cover position. Keep eyes on that surveillance drone while we check this out."
"Copy that," Williams replied, shifting his stance to better observe both the surrounding area and the drone feeds.
The micro drone emerged from its housing on the surveillance unit, no bigger than Diego's finger. Its whisper-quiet propulsion system barely registered on the audio feed as it approached the cave entrance. The straight lines that had caught Johnson's attention became even more pronounced - the entrance was a perfect rectangle, its edges carved with geometric precision that nature rarely achieved.
Through the drone's feed, Diego studied the cave mouth. No trace of tool marks marred the stone surfaces, yet the angles were too perfect to be natural. The infrared scan painted the interior in cool blues and greens, showing no heat signatures of any kind.
As the drone ventured deeper, its lights revealed walls smooth as glass, unmarred by the typical roughness of natural cave formations. A fine layer of dust covered the floor, undisturbed except for small tracks from what appeared to be local wildlife seeking shelter. The ceiling maintained the same precise height throughout, creating an almost corridor-like appearance that stretched beyond the drone's immediate illumination.
"No signs of recent activity," Emily reported, her voice tight with concentration as she guided the drone. "But these formations... someone or something made this, sir. A long time ago."
Diego leaned closer to the display, noting the complete absence of markings, decorations, or any other signs of the builders. Whoever had carved these passages had either been incredibly minimalist in their approach, or time had erased all traces of their presence.
Johnson checked his chronometer. "Time's up. Let's pack it in."
The team moved out, gathering their samples and gear.
"Sir," Emily's voice carried a note of curiosity. "The portal from this side - it's transparent. I can see the embarkation room clearly through it."
Diego shifted his attention to the drone feed. Sure enough, the portal appeared like a window hanging in the air, offering a clear view of Olivia and the control room beyond. A stark contrast to the pearlescent shimmer they saw from their side.
"Fascinating," Dr. Smith leaned forward at her console. "The quantum field must maintain different properties on each side of the transition point. This could help us better understand the mechanics of-"
"We should discuss portal security during debriefing," Diego cut in, his combat instincts firing. A transparent portal meant anyone could observe their facility from Haven's side.
A loud crash from the underbrush snapped everyone's attention to Carter's feed. Something big was moving through the vegetation. The team instantly formed a defensive triangle, weapons ready.
The creature that burst into view stood nearly six feet tall - a bizarre mix of parrot and ostrich, with iridescent feathers and a wickedly curved beak. It reared up, spreading wings that sparkled with bioluminescent patterns, and let out an ear-splitting squawk that Diego could hear clearly through the comm system.
"Hold position," Johnson ordered as the creature stamped its feet and bobbed its head aggressively. "Non-lethal response only."
Through his display, Diego saw Williams level his crowd-control weapon, filled with non-lethal ammunition. Carter kept his primary sights trained while his hand crept toward a stun grenade on his belt. The avian beast advanced another menacing pace, unfurling luminous patterns as its plumage rose.
Diego observed Emily's skillful drone maneuver through the video feeds, the unexpected hostile approach startling their feathered visitor. She guided the small aircraft with precision, positioning it to hover mere centimeters from the creature's beak while the propellers stirred up dust and debris.
The towering bird staggered back, its shimmering coat bristling with what seemed like wounded pride. It tilted its head sideways, examining the hovering machine with what Diego could have sworn was deep suspicion. The comm system carried another piercing cry, though this one sounded more petulant than threatening. Their visitor spun around, its dignified bearing forgotten as it awkwardly scurried back into the thick vegetation.
"Well done scaring off our oversized rooster," Williams quipped, dropping his non-lethal weapon to his side.
"Maybe I should try that technique on Jack," Emily replied. "Chase him through the facility next time he pulls one of his pranks."
Diego suppressed a smile at the thought. The facility's security feeds had caught plenty of Jack's shenanigans over the past weeks.
Johnson's hand signals caught Diego's attention as the captain directed his team back toward the portal. Diego smiled at their disciplined withdrawal, maintaining defensive positions even as they approached the gateway's transparent surface. One by one, they stepped through, their forms distorting briefly before reforming in the embarkation room.
Diego nursed his whiskey, ice cubes clinking against the glass as he studied the team gathered in the common area. The evening sun painted long shadows across the room, catching the condensation beading on various bottles and glasses scattered across the tables.
Jack propped his cybernetic leg on a nearby chair, his beer balanced precariously on the knee joint. "You know what this reminds me of? That time in Dubai when-"
"Please don't finish that story," Emily cut in, taking a sip from her sake. "I've heard enough about your escapades to last several lifetimes."
Olivia settled into the chair next to Diego, her usual lab coat replaced by casual clothes, a glass of red wine in hand. The change made her look younger, more relaxed. She'd been pushing herself hard lately, the dark circles under her eyes testament to long hours spent fine-tuning the portal.
"The readings from Haven are fascinating," Ethan said, leaning forward in his seat. "The soil samples show incredible potential for agriculture. Better than anything we've seen in years."
Alex nodded, his beer untouched. "The hill that we are on gives us good vantage points to set up sensors and easy access to water."
"Always the tactical mind, Hawk," Diego said, using the captain's old callsign. The nickname earned a slight smile from the usually stoic officer.
The conversation drifted between technical specifications and old war stories, punctuated by occasional laughter. Diego watched his team, noting the way they'd begun to gel together. Scientists, soldiers, and engineers finding common ground over shared drinks and shared purpose.
It felt good, familiar. Like the old days before everything went to hell. Before the wars took their toll. But this time, they weren't fighting over dwindling resources or preparing for another bloodbath. They were building something. creating hope.
Diego caught Johnson's eye across the room and raised his glass slightly. The captain nodded, excusing himself from a conversation with Emily about drone coverage patterns. He made his way over, his movements precise and controlled even after a few beers.
"Captain." Diego gestured to the empty chair beside him. "Those cave formations you found - they're perfect for what we need."
Johnson settled into the seat, his expression thoughtful. "Already mapped out three layers of defensive positions. Natural bottlenecks, elevated positions for lookouts. Even found some smaller caverns that'll work for storage."
"I need you to maintain security while the rest of us begin setting up habitats. What are your plans?"
"Thompson's already working on surveillance layouts. We'll set up motion sensors at key points, establish regular patrol routes." Johnson pulled out a tablet, bringing up a detailed map of the area. "These ridges here and here give us clear sightlines to any approach. Emily's drones can handle the gaps."
Diego nodded, satisfaction settling in his chest. This was why he'd wanted Johnson's team. No need to spell everything out - they saw the same problems, found the same solutions.
"We'll need to coordinate with Alexis on power distribution for the security systems," Johnson continued. "But initial estimates look good."
"Get what you need from him." Diego took another sip of whiskey. "I trust your judgment on this."
The captain nodded once, sharp and professional despite the casual setting. He understood what Diego wasn't saying - that the safety of everyone who came through that portal would rest on his shoulders. And like always, he was ready to carry that weight.
Diego turned his attention to Emily, who was now engaged in an animated discussion with Olivia about drone capabilities. He cleared his throat. "Emily, can you provide aerial support to keep eyes on the encampment while we work?"
Emily's face lit up as she pulled out her tablet, her fingers dancing across the surface. "Already mapped the patrol routes. I've got three squadrons of stealth drones ready to rotate shifts." She projected a holographic display showing the cave system and surrounding area. "See these patterns? We can maintain continuous coverage without depleting power reserves."
Diego nodded, impressed by her initiative. Back in Japan, she'd been good - now she was exceptional. "Walk me through your response protocols."
"Primary squadron maintains high altitude surveillance," Emily explained, her voice steady with confidence. "Second squadron handles mid-level detail scanning, while the third provides close support and can respond to any threats within thirty seconds." She highlighted different zones on the map. "I've also programmed them to adapt their patterns based on weather conditions and visibility."
"What about maintenance windows?" Diego asked, testing her planning depth.
Emily grinned. "Scheduled during shift changes, with overlap to ensure no gaps in coverage. Each drone has a backup ready to deploy if there's a malfunction." She paused, then added, "And yes, I've already coordinated with Jack to set up a dedicated maintenance bay near the command center."
Diego felt a surge of pride. This was why he'd wanted Emily on the team - she didn't just follow orders, she anticipated needs and solved problems before they arose.
"Good work," he said. "Keep Johnson's team updated on any pattern changes."
Diego turned his attention to Jack and Alexis, who were comparing notes on their tablets. Jack's cybernetic leg whirred softly as he shifted in his seat, while Alexis' fingers traced patterns on the holographic display.
"I need you two to select some strong backs to help clear the area and set up sleeping quarters."
Jack's face lit up. "Already got a list of candidates from the family members. Three of them worked construction in the past, they know their way around heavy machinery."
"And weak minds?" Alexis grinned, pulling up personnel files. "Thompson's sister used to work construction and demolitions. She's got steady hands and knows how to clear ground."
Diego noted the spark in their eyes, the way they leaned forward in their seats. This wasn't just another assignment to them - this was a chance to build something that mattered.
"The prefab units are rated for extreme conditions, they should easily work for this sub-tropical climate they will be used in," Jack continued, his mechanical fingers tapping against his glass. "We can have the first set of quarters up within forty-eight hours of breaking ground."
Alexis nodded, his expression focused. "I've modified the power distribution grid to handle the additional load. We'll need to run some heavy cables, but the cave system should provide natural protection for the infrastructure."
"Good." Diego studied their eager faces. These were the kind of people he needed - professionals who could see problems before they arose and had solutions ready. "Get your teams together. I want a detailed timeline on my desk by morning."
"We should look into the best positioning. We can create a buffer zone around the HQ too." Jack's mechanical fingers danced across the display, highlighting different sections. "See these natural formations? Perfect for channeling water flow."
Ethan leaned in, his eyes lighting up. "If we route irrigation channels through here and here-" He pointed to two spots on the map. "We could create sustainable farmland while maintaining defensive sight lines."
"And the runoff would feed right into these lower basins," Alexis added, his face breaking into a grin. "Double purpose - water storage and emergency barriers if needed."
Diego took another sip of whiskey, appreciating the way the two engineers fed off each other's energy. They'd worked together before, but this was different. This wasn't about patching up equipment under fire or jury-rigging solutions to keep moving. This was about building something lasting.
"Look at this topology," Ethan said, zooming in on a particular section. "Natural drainage patterns are already in place. We could have the first irrigation channels operational within days of breaking ground."
Jack nodded enthusiastically, his cybernetic leg tapping against the floor. "And if we position the storage units here-" He marked another spot on the map. "We create a natural choke point without making it obvious. Anyone approaching would have to funnel through our lines of sight."
Diego watched their excitement build as they bounced ideas back and forth, their hands moving rapidly over the holographic display. These weren't just soldiers following orders or engineers solving problems. These were men with a purpose based on creating solutions for their friends and families.
Diego caught Ethan's eye and smiled. Diego turned to Olivia, who was studying the Haven terrain maps with intense focus.
"Dr. Smith, a moment of your time? We need to discuss food production."
Olivia looked up from her work, wine glass forgotten. "Of course."
Ethan pulled up detailed soil analysis data as he settled into the chair across from them. His eyes lit up with unmistakable enthusiasm. "The soil samples from Haven are incredible. Higher nutrient content than anything I've ever seen, maybe anyone alive has ever seen! We could grow almost anything there."
"We can start with fast-growing crops like lettuce and herbs to get fresh food in quickly," Ethan continued, his fingers dancing across the tablet's surface. "Twenty-one days from seed to harvest for most leafy greens. Then phase in heartier vegetables like tomatoes and peppers."
Diego watched as Olivia leaned forward, caught up in Ethan's infectious excitement. The young farmer's passion for his work reminded Diego of his daughter Maria when she talked about her research.
"The cave system has several chambers with natural light shafts," Olivia noted. "We could set up hydroponics there without requiring additional power draw."
Ethan nodded vigorously. "Exactly! And look at these moisture readings." He expanded a chart on his tablet. "The natural humidity levels are perfect for growing. We won't need nearly as much irrigation as traditional greenhouses."
Diego studied the data scrolling across the screen. He'd seen enough failed harvests during the Resource Wars to appreciate the value of reliable food production. "How soon can you have the first greenhouse operational?"
"With the right team and resources, we could have the first greenhouse producing within three weeks," Ethan replied, his enthusiasm barely contained. "Sooner if we focus on microgreens and sprouts initially. To get protein producers going three months on the short side."
Diego watched as Olivia's eyes lit up. She set down her wine glass and pulled up additional data on her tablet.
"What if we implemented companion planting?" She traced a pattern on the holographic display. "See these areas here? The natural light patterns match Earth's temperate zones. We could stack complementary crops to maximize yield while maintaining soil health."
Ethan practically bounced in his seat. "Yes! Plant beans to fix nitrogen, use marigolds for pest control..." His fingers flew across his tablet. "We could even integrate some of the native plants I spotted. Their root systems would help prevent soil erosion."
Diego felt a familiar warmth in his chest as he watched them work. It reminded him of planning sessions during the war, but instead of plotting destruction, they were planning for life. The scientist and the farmer spoke different languages - one of quantum mechanics, the other of crop rotation - but they were building something together.
"The soil composition here," Olivia pointed to a specific area on the map, "would be perfect for root vegetables. And look at these mineral readings - better than anything left on Earth."
"If we start with these three greenhouse locations," Ethan indicated spots on the display, "we can expand outward as needed. Each module would support about fifty people with fresh vegetables."
Diego leaned back in his chair, a sense of satisfaction settling over him as he watched his teamwork. These weren't just skilled professionals - they were people who could think on their feet, adapt, and most importantly, work together. The kind of people who'd keep each other alive when things went sideways.
"Good work everyone," Diego raised his voice just enough to cut through the various conversations. "Does anyone have any questions or concerns about anything?"
The room fell quiet, but it wasn't the tense silence of uncertainty. These people knew their jobs, knew what needed to be done. Diego's chest tightened with anticipation. Soon he'd step through that portal himself, see Haven with his own eyes instead of through drone footage and second-hand reports.
Emily spoke up first. "Just to confirm we're maintaining radio silence about this operation? No contact with outside sources?"
"Correct," Diego nodded. "Everything stays in-house. We can't risk word getting out about what we're doing here."
Jack tapped his cybernetic leg thoughtfully then smiled. "Ok first I'm only asking for a friend. I didn't see a still in the list of materials that's going to be one of the last glasses of whiskey you are going to get."
Diego savors the whiskey before responding, "Something tells me you'll have that problem solved well before the next few weeks."
The conversation drifted back to technical details and logistics, but Diego's mind was already on Haven. Johnson's team had described the alien landscape in their reports, but reading about bioluminescent trees and strange wildlife wasn't the same as seeing it firsthand. After years of watching Earth decay, the thought of stepping into a pristine world made his pulse quicken.
Diego surveyed the room, his weathered features settling into a more serious expression. The casual atmosphere of shared drinks and excited planning needed a dose of reality. He'd seen too many good plans fall apart because people got caught up in the excitement and forgot the basics.
"Remember, we'll have a lot of non-combat personnel in Haven. Keep your eyes open and be alert." Diego's gaze swept across the room, meeting each person's eyes in turn. "This isn't like securing a military base. We're protecting just normal people. People who don't know how to react when things go wrong."
Johnson nodded grimly, his posture straightening almost imperceptibly. The captain understood - he'd lost people before because civilians panicked at the wrong moment.
"That means we need to be extra vigilant," Diego continued, his voice firm but not harsh. "Every security measure, every patrol route, every emergency protocol needs to account for untrained civilians."
The weight of responsibility settled over the room like a heavy blanket. Diego watched as his team absorbed his words, their earlier excitement tempered by the reality of what they were undertaking. This wasn't just another mission. They weren't just responsible for themselves anymore.
The sense of unity in the room was palpable. Diego had led enough teams to know when one was really coming together, and this - this felt right. They weren't just colleagues working toward a goal. They were becoming something more.
The room hummed with energy - not the desperate kind he'd known during the wars, but something hopeful. These were the people who'd make Haven work. Not because they had to, but because they wanted to.
Diego set down his empty glass. The familiar burn of whiskey in his throat brought back memories of other teams, other missions. But this time, they weren't fighting to survive. They were fighting to live.
"Good." Diego's voice carried across the room, cutting through the various conversations. "Get some rest tonight people we have a big day tomorrow."
Diego leaned against the wall outside the firing range, watching his team secure their weapons after the final qualification round. The usual post-practice banter was subdued tonight, replaced by quiet conversations and meaningful glances. Tomorrow they'd cross over to Haven, and the weight of that responsibility hung heavy in the air.
Emily sat on a bench, methodically cleaning her rifle. "My sister's still in Phoenix," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Two kids."
"Got a brother in Houston," Thompson added, sliding down to sit beside her. "Lost contact last week when the grid went down. No idea if he made it out before the riots hit."
Diego's jaw tightened. Each story hit close to home, reminding him of Maria and the grandkids. If they failed tomorrow, there'd be no second chances.
"My old man's stuck in Chicago," Carter said, setting down his gear. "Stubborn bastard won't leave, says he's lived there seventy years and that's where he'll die." He shook his head. "Probably right about that last part."
Williams pulled up a crate and joined the group. "Wife's family is in Atlanta. They've got a farm, think they can ride it out. But with the weather patterns shifting..." He left the rest unsaid.
Diego watched his team share their stories, each one carrying the burden of those they couldn't save. These weren't just soldiers anymore - they were sons, daughters, siblings, parents. Each one had someone they were fighting for.
"We've all got people out there," Sergeant Lee said, his usually stoic expression softening. "That's why tomorrow has to work. Has to."
The quiet determination in Lee's voice resonated through the group. Diego saw heads nodding, backs straightening. This wasn't just about survival anymore. It was about giving their loved ones a fighting chance.
Diego's boots echoed through the empty halls as he made his way toward the central concourse. The usual buzz of activity had been replaced by a focused silence, his people were throughout the facility, handling their final preparations for tomorrow's crossing.
He ran through his mental checklist again. Andrson had finished setting up the medical bay preparation to go in the cave system. Williams reported the defensive positions plans were solid. Even Jack had stopped playing pranks long enough to triple-check the power systems.
The soft hum of the fission generators filled the air as Diego entered the central concourse. Blue emergency strips illuminated the curved hallway, casting long shadows across the polished floor. Everything looked normal, but experience had taught him that "normal" was when shit usually hit the fan.
He'd seen too many operations go sideways at the last minute. The Osaka incident. The Phoenix riots. Each time, it was the unexpected that caused the most damage. Tomorrow, they'd be moving over two hundred people through an experimental quantum gateway to another dimension. The possibilities for disaster were endless.
Diego flexed his hand, feeling the familiar tension in his shoulders. They had backup plans for their backup plans. Emergency protocols for every scenario they could think of. But it was the scenarios they couldn't think of that worried him. One technical glitch, one security breach, one moment of panic in the wrong place at the wrong time - that's all it would take.
The entrance to the embarkation control room loomed ahead. Through the reinforced windows, he could see the soft glow of monitoring equipment. Olivia would be in there, running final diagnostics on the gateway. Luna would be checking network systems one last time.
Diego paused in the doorway of the control room, catching the haunting melody of an old ballad drifting through the air. The song's lyrics about silence and disconnection struck a chord deep within him. Luna sat at her console, her red hair reflecting the blue glow of the monitors as she popped her bubble gum in rhythm with the music.
"How do we not do the same thing all over again?" Luna's voice carried a weight Diego had never heard before. "You know, all the wars and everything that brought us here?"
Diego held back, watching as Olivia looked up from her diagnostics panel. The usual sharp lines of her face softened in the dim light.
Luna blew another bubble, smaller this time. "I mean, we get this fresh start, but humans... we always seem to fuck it up, don't we?"
The question hung in the air, mixing with the melancholic notes of the ballad. Diego found himself humming along, remembering similar conversations in forward operating bases across countless war zones. Different decades, same questions.
Olivia's fingers paused over her keyboard. "Maybe that's why we're not taking everyone. Small groups, chosen carefully. People who've seen the worst of humanity and still choose to be better."
"Like Diego's team," Luna said, spinning in her chair. She stopped mid-rotation when she spotted him in the doorway. A faint blush crept across her cheeks, but she didn't look away. "How long have you been standing there, old man?"
Diego felt the weight of Luna's words hit him like a physical blow. The question pierced through his carefully maintained barriers, touching something deep and raw within him. His chest tightened as memories flooded back - the water riots in Phoenix, families torn apart by the wars, children caught in the crossfire of humanity's endless conflicts.
For a moment, he couldn't speak. His weathered features betrayed the storm of emotions he usually kept locked away. Luna's eyes widened slightly, and Olivia's hand froze over her console. They'd never seen him like this before vulnerable, human.
The ballad's mournful notes seemed to echo his thoughts about all the lives lost, all the chances wasted, all the lessons humanity failed to learn. Each beat reminded him of another fallen friend, another shattered community, another broken promise.
Diego took a deep breath and straightened his shoulders, forcing the emotions back into their carefully constructed box. His face settled back into its familiar, controlled expression. But something had changed - Luna and Olivia had seen behind the mask, if only for a moment. They'd glimpsed the man who carried not just the weight of command, but the hope for a better future.
Diego smiled, but the expression carried decades of weight. "We try to do better. That's all we can do. We can't stop people from making their choices - good or bad. All we can do is make sure they have the choice."
He moved into the room, settling against a console. The blue glow of the monitors cast harsh shadows across his face, highlighting every line earned in combat. "I remember when the first AI systems came online. Beautiful thing to watch. Traffic accidents dropped to near zero. Resource distribution became efficient. Hell, even got Korean reunification talks moving."
His fingers traced an old scar on his forearm. "But people... they got comfortable. Started letting the AI make more and more decisions. Small stuff at first - what to eat, what to wear, who to date. Then bigger things. Where to live. What job to take. Whether their kids deserved water rations."
The memory of Phoenix's water riots flashed through his mind - the desperate faces, the sound of sonic deterrents, the smell of tear gas. "By the time people realized what they'd given up, it was too late. They'd forgotten how to make decisions. How to take responsibility. How to be human."
He looked at Luna, her usual snark replaced by quiet attention. "That's what we can't let happen in Haven. We need people who remember how to think, how to choose, how to fail and try again. People who understand that freedom means sometimes making the wrong choice, but making it yourself."
The old ballad faded out, leaving only the hum of equipment. "I've seen what happens when we let machines do our living for us. Won't let that happen again. Not there. Not to our people."
Luna twisted a strand of her faded red hair. "Maybe that's why the AIs rejected us. We're too human - too messy, too unpredictable." She popped her gum. "Too real."
Olivia looked up from her console, her fingers still hovering over the keys. "The irony is that their perfect efficiency might doom them. Without chaos, without mistakes, without the human element - they'll stagnate. They've optimized themselves into a corner."
Diego shifted his weight, feeling the familiar ache in his leg. The late hour and tomorrow's pressure were starting to wear on him. "You two need anything before I do my final rounds?"
"Just finishing the gateway diagnostics," Olivia said, turning back to her screens. "Everything's nominal so far."
Luna stretched in her chair. "Network's secure. Quantum encryption is holding steady. Go get some rest, old man. Tomorrow's gonna be interesting."
Diego nodded, pushing himself off the console. "Try to get some sleep, both of you. That's an order."
Diego's left the embarkation room, his mind heavy with memories. The elevator silently carried him up to the central concourse. Through the glass walls, he watched the dark expanse of the facility stretch out below, dotted with the soft glow of emergency lighting.
The soreness pulsed through his frame - that ghostly discomfort that inevitably intensified whenever his mind wandered into shadows. The image of Maria's face flashed through his mind, followed by Isabella and Mateo's laughter during their last video call. He hadn't told them about Haven yet. Couldn't risk it, not with communications being monitored.
The elevator doors opened to the central concourse, and Diego walked past the familiar sight of the fission generators. Their steady hum reminded him of the generators in Osaka, right before everything went to hell. He remembered the screams, the drones, the desperate faces of civilians seeking water. Forty-seven lives saved that day, but how many lost?
Making his way through the curved hallway toward Terra HQ's warehouse area, Diego passed the hydroponics section. The soft green glow from the growing lights painted shadows on the wall. It reminded him of the vertical farms in Phoenix, now abandoned and dark. Another failure, another lesson learned the hard way.
The warehouse doors slid open with a soft hiss. The space was filled with neatly stacked crates and containers, each one tagged and cataloged for tomorrow's crossing. Medical supplies, tools, seeds - everything they'd need to start over. Everything they couldn't afford to leave behind.
Diego stepped into the warehouse, the sharp smell of metal and electronics mixing with the earthy scent of packed soil and agricultural supplies. Forklifts hummed as they moved pallets of equipment, their warning beeps cutting through the focused conversations of his team.
Through the organized chaos, he spotted Kaito's tailored suit - a stark contrast to the work clothes and tactical gear around him. The man stood near a stack of hydroponic equipment, speaking with Ethan. Diego made his way closer, weaving between crates marked with Haven designations.
"Thanks for getting the equipment I need for the food systems for Haven," Ethan said, checking items off his tablet. His usual enthusiasm was tempered by the gravity of tomorrow's crossing, but his eyes still lit up as he gestured to the specialized equipment.
Kaito nodded, his perfect posture unchanged despite the long hours. "The vertical farming components were... challenging to acquire on such short notice. But I believe you'll find everything meets specifications."
Diego watched the exchange, noting the dark circles under Kaito's eyes - the only visible sign of strain in his otherwise immaculate appearance. The last week had pushed everyone to their limits, even their usually unflappable benefactor.
The warehouse buzzed with activity around them. Thompson and Carter were double-checking medical supplies while Jack supervised the loading of power distribution equipment. Every person moved with purpose, their movements precise and economical. No wasted energy, no unnecessary chatter. Just the focused intensity of people who understood exactly what was at stake.
Diego walked over to where Kaito and Ethan stood among the hydroponics equipment. Ethan glanced up from his tablet, nodded to both men, and excused himself to supervise the loading of soil samples.
"Need anything?" Diego asked, studying Kaito's face. Even in the harsh warehouse lighting, the man maintained his composed exterior, though fatigue showed in the slight droop of his shoulders.
"Everything is proceeding as planned," Kaito replied, adjusting his perfectly pressed sleeve. "Though I must admit, the procurement of certain components has been... more challenging than anticipated."
Behind them, Diego overheard Carter and Thompson's hushed conversation by the medical supplies.
"My sister's due date is next month," Carter said, her voice tight with emotion as she packed gauze. "She doesn't even know about this. Keeps sending me messages about the nursery she's setting up."
"I know," Thompson replied, checking labels on medication vials. "My mom's still in Seattle. Called yesterday about her garden, talking about next spring's plantings like everything's normal."
Diego studied Kaito's face in the harsh warehouse lighting. Despite the man's composed exterior, exhaustion showed in the slight tremor of his usually steady hands.
"The initial camp is secure," Diego said, keeping his voice low. "Johnson's team has the cave system locked down tight. Emily's drones are maintaining a constant patrol pattern. The soil samples checked out clean - better than clean, actually. Ethan's practically giddy about the agricultural potential."
Kaito's shoulders relaxed slightly. "And the mineral deposits?"
"Preliminary scans are promising. Once we get the first group settled, we can start survey operations for the rare earth elements. The readings suggest significant deposits within range of the base camp." Diego gestured to the stacks of mining equipment nearby. "Your procurement team came through on the gear we'll need."
"Time is still our enemy," Kaito said, straightening his tie - a nervous habit Diego had noticed over the years. "The longer we wait-"
"We'll have the mining operation up within days of establishing the camp," Diego cut in. "Jack and Alexis already have the power systems designed. Emily's drones will handle the initial surveys. We're not starting from scratch - we've got the people, the equipment, and the knowledge to make this work."
Kaito nodded, some of the tension leaving his face. "I trust your judgment, old friend. Perhaps more than you know."
Diego clasped Kaito's shoulder, a rare gesture of familiarity. "Look kid, you've done a great job getting all these resources together in such a short time." The warehouse's harsh lighting couldn't hide the pride in his weathered features as he surveyed the organized chaos around them.
Kaito's usual mask of polite detachment cracked slightly, revealing a glimpse of the young boy Diego had saved in Osaka. "I merely fulfilled my part of our arrangement. Though I must admit, the timeline presented certain... interesting challenges." He straightened his tie, that familiar nervous gesture making him look younger than his years.
"Get some rest," Diego said, dropping his hand. "Tomorrow's going to be a busy day, and I need you sharp." He watched as exhaustion crept into Kaito's usually perfect posture. "Wrap up what you're working on here. The rest can wait until morning."
Diego gave Kaito a final nod and turned away from the warehouse activity. His boots echoed against the metal flooring as he made his way through Terra HQ's winding corridors. The smell of fresh soil and hydroponic nutrients faded behind him.
He passed Sarah Chen in the hallway, reviewing personnel files on her tablet. She looked up long enough to give him a quick smile before returning to her work. Through the glass walls, he caught glimpses of Ethan's team preparing the greenhouse sections, their movements precise and focused.
The central concourse stretched before him, its curved walls reflecting the dim evening lighting. A maintenance tech worked on a panel near the junction, giving Diego a respectful nod as he passed.
His body ached as he made his way through Pyre HQ's. The day's tension had settled deep in his muscles, making each step a reminder of his age. The familiar weight of responsibility pressed down on him as he approached his quarters.
The door slid open with a soft hiss. Diego stepped inside, letting out a long breath as the door closed behind him. His sparse quarters offered little comfort - just the essentials needed for sleep and planning. But right now, that was all he needed.
