In the dimly lit corridors of the Research Sector, faint tremors rattled the walls. Technicians moved with wary efficiency, casting nervous glances at the flickering lights overhead. Despite the Bureau's efforts to maintain control, it was clear that something was shifting.
Marshall paced in the command center, eyes fixed on the latest reports streaming in from various sectors of the Oldest House. "We've got multiple reports of minor distortions," she said, addressing the gathered team. "Localized shifts in gravity, altered spatial geometry, and… auditory phenomena."
"Auditory?" Trench asked, stepping forward. "You mean more whispering?"
Marshall nodded. "It's consistent with what the Rangers near the Nexus have been experiencing. Whatever's happening, it's spreading."
Trench's expression hardened. "We can't let it escalate. If this destabilizes the Oldest House…"
"We lose our foothold on reality," Marshall finished grimly.
Darling entered the room, looking more worn than ever but carrying a renewed sense of urgency. "I've been reviewing the data," he said without preamble. "These distortions aren't random. They're emanating from specific points—Threshold junctions. It's like the Plane is reaching through."
"Reaching through for what?" Trench asked.
Darling hesitated, then said, "For us. It's trying to connect. And I think we need to let it."
The room fell silent, Marshall and Trench exchanging uneasy glances.
"You're suggesting we open a door for it?" Marshall asked incredulously.
"Not exactly," Darling clarified. "But if we can create a controlled conduit—a bridge—we might be able to communicate directly. Find out what it wants before it forces its way through."
Trench took a deep drag from his cigarette, considering the proposal. "If this goes wrong…"
"It'll go wrong either way," Darling said firmly. "At least this way, we have a chance to understand it."
After a tense moment, Trench nodded. "Do it. Prepare your team. But Darling—if anything feels off, you shut it down immediately. No risks."
"Understood, Director."
As the team dispersed to make preparations, Marshall caught up with Darling. "Are you sure about this?"
"No," Darling admitted. "But it's the only way forward."