I hate that I’m lying to her. That I’m not telling her the truth about Vanik being the one controlling her brother. Soon—I will soon.

“Time,” Cami repeats, frustration in her voice. “I’m so sick of waiting. I just want everything to hurry up and be over so we can start our happily-ever-afters.”

With the future we’ve just discussed fresh in my mind, I can’t help but agree with her. I move forward and pull her into a hug. “This will all end soon, Cam.”

Or at least … my part in it will. Because if the serum really is working its way through my veins, then my role in bringing down Vanik will be over before it’s even started.

*

Cami and I split up once we step into the hallway, with her heading toward the holding cell and me towards the command center. I remember the journey from yesterday—was it really just yesterday?—and I stride with purpose through the twisting hallways and down the spiraled path through the main cavern. As I witnessed on my very first trip to the catacombs, this large, pillared area is mostly used as a place where the Remnants come together to hang out, but right now there are only a few people mingling in the impressive space. While I don’t recognize them, I nod politely as I pass through.

After more labyrinthine corridors, I finally reach the door of the command center. I’m not surprised to find it locked, just as it was last time when I was here with Cami. I focus my intent and command, “Open.”

Dread tingles down my spine when no light flares, when the door doesn’t move. I knew better than to hope, but still …

I pinch the bridge of my nose before I refocus and try again. “Open.”

Still nothing.

My heart begins pounding in my ears. I’m just about to try for the third time when the door opens from the inside.

“Oh! Hey!” Keeda says, her hand flying to her chest. “I didn’t expect to see you standing there.”

That much is clear, but I don’t tell her how long I’ve been trying to open the door. “I just got here.”

She opens the door wider to allow me entry, swapping places as she exits the room. She pauses before lowering her voice to a whisper, “I’m sorry again about yesterday, but I’m glad you got in and out safely even without my help. And I’m glad you got Ward out, too. One down, dozens to go.” She offers a half smile. “We’ll get there, Lyss. Even if it we have to save them one at a time, we’ll get there.”