Chapter 74: The Rapid Growth
A steady, rhythmic pulse of fluid surged through the overhead manifolds of the agricultural wing, sending measured vibrations through the steel ceiling struts sixty feet beneath the bedrock. Rowan Mercer stood along the central elevated catwalk, his hands resting lightly on the powder-coated handrail as he watched the automated distribution cycle engage across all twelve growing bays. While fifty below zero winds screamed down Crestline Avenue and tore the remaining siding from the dark mansions above, the subterranean vault functioned with the quiet, flawless regularity of an industrial clock.
The network of black polyethylene tubing hummed as high-pressure diaphragm pumps delivered heated, nutrient-rich water directly to the base of each cedar planter.
Eve
