The eastern command passage was narrower than Aurelian expected.
The walls had once been part of the old Vhaloric command structure, but the Compact had covered much of the original surface with newer panels, security wiring, and reinforced weapon mounts.
Red emergency lights ran along the floor, giving the entire corridor a dull glow that made every shadow look deeper than it was.
Rhoswen moved first with her shield raised, while Astra stayed close to the right wall and watched the corners ahead.
Aurelian followed them by several steps, carrying four support frames, leaving the rest to guard the route back toward the research sector.
Eirenne remained linked through the local network.
"Commander Yarric has sealed the western access routes," she said. "He is moving the remaining command staff into the central pit and pulling soldiers away from the upper offices."
"He knows we are coming now," Aurelian replied.
