112

RICKIE

The gammas guarding the chamber were vigilant, engaged in their usual guard tricks. This time, a group of them remained hidden, a strategic deception to ensnare any unwary intruders. Occasionally, they employed brick mannequins to enhance the ruse, allowing them to watch covertly from their concealed positions.

As I approached the chamber, the visible gammas snapped to attention, saluting me respectfully. They stepped aside, allowing me passage. I entered the chamber with a sense of purpose but was greeted by an unexpected stillness. The room was devoid of Lana or any sign of her presence.

Perplexed, I conducted a thorough search of the chamber. Yet, it revealed nothing – no trace of Lana. Pondering her whereabouts, I wondered if she might have returned to her room in the quarters. Exiting the chamber, I caught the arm of the nearest gamma.

"Where is Lana?" I inquired, my tone edged with concern.