The severed relay spits sparks across the command spine threshold. Beyond it, the Ark's administrative core flickers between evacuation controls and cryo-system warnings. Earth turns below the observation glass, its surface split by a widening red-black scar.
Captain Stone
Captain Stone
Captain Stone
The intrusion carries my authorization because I gave it that authority. I will not let it wake the passengers.
Alice
Alice
Alice
Ben, the cryo controls are isolated, but the Exodus sequence is still locked behind command authorization. Stone can open it, or the Ark can remain here until the planet finishes breaking apart.
Captain Stone steps between Ben and the core terminal. His white spherical head reflects the warning lights. One hand grips the manual release lever, while the other hovers over a sealed override panel.
Captain Stone
I authorized the hidden route to preserve command access during an emergency. The copied pattern was meant to be a safeguard. Something else used it. If I release the lock, it may regain control.
A deep vibration rolls through the deck. The Ark's engines remain cold. On the display, the doomsday clock reaches its final warning band. The sleeping humans wait in their pods, defenseless and unaware.
Alice
The choice is yours, Ben. Secure the core, force Stone away, or make him open the Exodus controls. Whatever you do, do it now.
Director's note
Secure the core, the human lives take top priority, and we need to get as far from the planet as possible.
Captain Stone
Then the core is secured first. I am opening the Exodus controls now.
Stone throws the manual release. The sealed override panel unlocks, and the administrative core accepts his authorization. Exodus engines begin warming while the cryo systems remain isolated. Earth’s fractured scar recedes beneath the observation glass as the Ark prepares to flee.
Quest Complete
Reach the administrative core
Attribute Upgrade: Perception Good→Great