(34) When all else is lost the future still remains

“This could be perfect,” Race replied, not really answering Shan’s question as he studied a spot along one wall of the tunnel. “How does this open?” He touched what at a closer glance appeared to be a steel door that matched the surrounding rock.

“It doesn’t,” Shan growled. “So forget it.”

Shan turned to look at him. “It does and you know it. It has to lead to the level above the one we were on. If you don’t open it, I’ll get Kayne up here to do it.”

“Fuck that.”

“Then get it open. Are you afraid to? Afraid of what will happen if you do?”

“Meaning what?” Shan leaned a foot back against the tunnel wall and crossed his arms as he stared at Race.

“Meaning that if this place was set up as a military compound, then the living quarters would have been above the command center and whatever else is down there. That way, personnel could go either way depending on the situation. I bet there’s another floor above this one with a dining room, rec room and all of that stuff. At least that’s the way I would have set things up, if it were me.”

“Your point being?” Shan asked, although he knew exactly what Race was getting at.

“Meaning this level,” Race smacked the palm of his hand against the door, “was where you and Lav had rooms, or a room, however it was set up. So did Addie and her family, and probably everyone else who lived and worked here.”

Shan nodded, scrubbing a hand over his face. “It was and it’s been destroyed so we are not opening that door. It would be a waste of time and energy.”

Race started down the tunnel. “I’ll get Kayne to do it.”

“Get your ass back up here!” Shan’s tone was low, deadly and filled with pain.

“You’ll open it?”

Without answering, Shan pressed his hands against the door. There was a low rumble of protest as it moved a few inches and then stopped. Trying again, he managed to push it a few more inches to make an opening large enough for a man to squeeze through. Stepping back he said, “Have at it.”

“Not without you. Your magic is my light source.” Race pointed to the small radiant ball hanging above their heads.

“It will follow you,” Shan said succinctly.

“Please come with me, Shan.”

“Afraid of what you’ll find?”

Race stared at him, into his eyes. “No, but you are.”