Chapter 112: Fractured Paths

The roar of collapsing metal drowned out Emily's own breathing as dust clouded the narrow corridor, choking the air.

 Splintered concrete and twisted steel formed a jagged wall between her and the rest of her team — Lena, Jared, and Marcel were now out of sight, sealed off on the other side of the collapsing ceiling.

Emily spun, rifle raised, as shadows flickered at the edges of the dust cloud. 

Shapes emerged — Covenant enforcers in black combat armor, their weapons raised. 

Her heartbeat quickened, but her grip on the rifle was steady. 

Victor Hale's voice still echoed in her ears, dripping with calm malice.

The first enforcer moved into the light, visor reflecting the cold, blue glow still emanating faintly from the Catalyst chamber further down the hall. 

Emily squeezed the trigger, sending a burst of gunfire into his chest.

 He staggered but didn't fall, the reinforced plating soaking up most of the impact.