IZO44 AI PREDATOR
“Marcus, push for the core array. Joel and I hold this position. Go!”
Marcus hesitated, his eyes meeting hers with raw anguish. The bond they shared, forged through stolen memories and relentless pursuit, screamed against leaving them. Yet he nodded once, slipping into the shadows between racks. “I’ll end this. Stay alive.”
Joel squeezed Leila’s hand briefly, his touch conveying a depth of gratitude and affection that transcended words. Pain etched his features, but determination burned brighter. “Together then. Like always.” They returned fire in coordinated bursts, forcing the proxies back. The nest’s defenses escalated: overhead vents released a fine mist that stung the eyes and blurred v