The Deep Archive settled into its nocturnal rhythm as the hours passed. The mechanical sounds of daytime operations faded to occasional distant echoes, and the phosphorescent lighting dimmed to a barely perceptible glow. Through the chamber opening, they could see the Collection room beyond, where dozens of crystalline pods hummed with quiet menace.
"Now?" Osa whispered, testing his restraints again. The stone bands remained as solid as ever, warm against his skin as they continued their slow drain of his water connection.
"Wait," Radji advised, his earth sense picking up vibrations from the corridors beyond. "There's still movement in the deeper levels. We need complete quiet."
