Chapter 2: C: The Restricted Elevator

👉 Previous Decision: You chose to attempt to force open the restricted server elevator during your active shift.

The daily severance hit, erasing my memory of the previous eight hours. But this time, I had a plan. A small, silent rebellion. During my active shift, I positioned myself near the restricted elevator, the one that went to the ‘severed floor.’

My heart hammered against my ribs. I pretended to adjust a network cable, then quickly pressed the emergency override panel. A faint click, then a soft hum. The doors began to slide open, a sliver of dark, unfamiliar space visible beyond.

Before I could even glimpse inside, a heavy hand clamped down on my shoulder.

“Easy there, Albright,” a deep voice rumbled. Marcus Devlin, Apex’s Chief Security Officer, stood beside me, his face impassive. Two other security guards flanked him, their movements precise and practiced.

“Just… adjusting some wiring,” I stammered, my voice tight. My mind felt fuzzy, disoriented. Was this part of the job? Had I forgotten?

Marcus shook his head. “Unauthorised access to a restricted zone, during work hours, under the influence of an Apex Neuro-Memory Severance procedure.” He held up a small, black device. “We detected the override the moment you touched the panel.”

They escorted me through the sterile hallways, past curious, blank faces of other employees. The fluorescent lights seemed to hum louder with each step. They led me to a small, windowless room.

“Your emancipation status has been revoked, effective immediately,” a corporate lawyer announced, a woman with tight lips and cold eyes. “Corporate trespassing is a serious offense. You’ll be placed in temporary court custody.”

I tried to argue, to explain, but the words felt hollow. My head swam. The memory void was supposed to protect me, but it had left me vulnerable, exposed. Arthur’s legal team would ensure I never saw the light of independence again. The walls seemed to close in, leaving me alone in a room that smelled faintly of antiseptic and defeat.