The hum of the Nova Sanctum's engines faded into a softer throb, steady as a heartbeat.
Lucian stood in the control room, eyes still locked on the map as the faint blue glow faded from the glass. His gaze was sharp, but his voice came low, directed at Lucy.
"Rest. We'll go deeper tomorrow."
Lucy opened her mouth like she wanted to argue, then stopped. She saw something in his eyes—something heavier than exhaustion. She only nodded once. "Don't keep me waiting too long."
Lucian turned, cloak trailing across the floor. "Alfred. Return Karl to his cell."
The AI core chimed in acknowledgment. Energy flared around Karl's restraints, pulling him back toward the lower decks. Karl only laughed on his way out, throwing one last grin over his shoulder. "Sweet dreams, kiddos. Try not to die without me."
The door hissed shut. Silence settled.
