The room they were in was one of the most austere in the entire structure.
It wasn't very large, but it was spacious enough to hold small meetings or serve as a resting room for high-ranking expedition members.
The walls were natural rock, reinforced with metal plates bolted into place in several sections.
On one side stood a rectangular dark steel table; on the other, a small shelf holding water bottles, a first-aid kit, and several stacked folders.
Two white lamps embedded in the ceiling cast a clean light that contrasted with the mineral dampness saturating the air. At certain moments, the deep echo of the Abyss could even be heard in the distance, as if it were breathing beyond the cavern.
Angel and Ashley were seated side by side. Across from them, on another chair, sat Thomas. For a few seconds, no one said anything.
Thomas lowered his gaze slightly, ran a hand along the back of his neck, and finally spoke.
"One day I just woke up… and my gift had appeared."
