Ritual?!

George hesitated for a split second, then released Emma and followed Nebula. The sound of gunfire erupted behind them, bullets ricocheting off the metal railings.

They descended at a breakneck pace, George constantly having to remind himself to move at human speed. Above them, he could hear their pursuers gaining ground.

"We can't outrun them," Nebula panted as they reached the 10th floor. "We need a plan."

George's mind raced. Then he spotted a maintenance door. "In here," he said, wrenching the door open.

They ducked inside, finding themselves in a narrow utility corridor. Pipes and electrical conduits lined the walls, and the air was thick with the smell of grease and ozone.

"What now?" Nebula asked, her eyes darting around the cramped space.