Viktor led the children through the maintenance tunnels. Fifteen kids. Five adults. Rachel with her camera, still documenting everything.
Emma walked beside Sophie. Both girls were scared but trying to be brave.
"How far to the exit?" Rachel asked.
"Two miles. If the tunnels have not collapsed." Viktor checked his map. "We should reach it in thirty minutes."
Behind them, explosions echoed through the mountain. The Sanctuary was under full assault.
Emma stopped walking. "We should go back. Help them fight."
"We cannot, Em. Your parents need you safe. That is how you help them."
"But they are dying!"
Viktor knelt down. "Maybe. But they are doing it to save you. To give you a future. Do not waste that gift. Keep moving."
Emma wiped tears from her eyes. Nodded. Kept walking.
The grou
