Damien could see that freedom was within reach as he took another step toward the security doors.
But then a groan came from the side of the corridor.
He turned his head and noticed one of the guards caught in the earlier chaos lying against the wall.
His uniform was torn, and several bruises covered his face. Blood stained part of his clothing, and although he was conscious, he looked barely capable of moving. He struggled to push himself upright, but his arms trembled beneath him.
Damien glanced at him for only a moment before turning his attention back toward the corridor.
Then he heard something.
Footsteps were approaching from his side and more footsteps were approaching from the distance ahead, but these were different from the frantic movements of the guards who had rushed into the area earlier.
These footsteps were steady, deliberate, and coordinated. There was none of the confusion or panic that had characterized the first response.
