Page 56 of Knot Their Fated M.U.S.E

Classic compensation behaviors indicating severe cognitive dissonance between projected authority and internal panic.

Three others position themselves near the "UPSTAIRS" door, their expressions carrying skeptical assessment rather than panicked desperation. This smaller group maintains greater interpersonal distance—alliance of strategy rather than emotional comfort, cooperation based on tactical assessment rather than instinctive clustering.

"I don't trust that exit," one murmurs to her companions, voice carrying uncommon tactical awareness. "It wouldn't be that easy. They're testing us."

Her assessment demonstrates legitimate strategic thinking—recognition of institutional methodology rather than desperate hope for simple escape. The others in her small group nod with similar understanding, communication occurring through subtle gestures and microexpressions rather than explicit verbalization.

Without further discussion, this smaller group moves toward their chosen door, disappearing through the threshold before anyone can question their decision or attempt to follow.

The chamber holds momentary stillness as twelve becomes nine—the first division of competitors reducing our numbers with unexpected efficiency.

Riot and I exchange measured glances before moving closer to the "DOWNSTAIRS" door, maintaining tactical awareness of our surroundings while positioning for our chosen path.

"I doubt anyone else is joining us," Riot observes, glancing toward the remaining omegas still debating their options with increasing desperation.

"Agreed," I acknowledge, "but that's not why I'm waiting."

She frowns slightly, curiosity evident beneath tactical composure.

"Why, then?"

"Watch," I instruct simply, anticipation building as institutional patterns align with previous experience.

Exactly when expected, the siren activates again—different pitch, different rhythm, but unmistakable warning function.The omegas freeze collectively as water begins seeping from previously invisible seams around the chamber's perimeter, spreading across marble flooring with increasing velocity.

"Oh fuck, not again," Riot complains, recognition indicating previous exposure to similar challenge parameters.

She moves with sudden urgency, pushing open the heavy door marked "DOWNSTAIRS" and gesturing frantically for me to enter.

"Come on!"

I take my time despite the rapidly rising water level, studying its distinctive properties with careful assessment. The liquid carries a subtle iridescence that standard water lacks—fine particulate suspended throughout suggesting composition beyond simple H2O.

"Hurry up and come here!" Riot calls toward the remaining omegas, genuine concern evident despite tactical disadvantage in potential alliance.

Their reaction is immediate and predictable—panic overwhelming logic as institutional conditioning achieves perfect manipulation.

"Fuck no!" the self-appointed leader shrieks, backing away from the spreading liquid. "We're getting out of here!"

Her companions follow without hesitation, all seven racing toward the door marked "EXIT" with desperate determination that betrays complete misunderstanding of institutional methodology.

"The door is becoming heavy," Riot warns, muscles straining against increasing resistance as the portal begins its automated security protocol.

I maintain perfect composure despite the rapidly deteriorating situation.

"Close it," I instruct calmly.

She stares at me with momentary disbelief.

"What if they change their mind?"

"The Parazodiac doesn't like the indecisive," I explain with clinical detachment. "It's either barrel ahead or be left behind. That's just how life is."

Riot hesitates fractionally before physics makes the decision for her—the door suddenly becoming impossibly heavy, metal rather than apparent wood, security protocols activating with merciless efficiency as it slams shut with pneumatic finality.

A transparent section remains visible—observation panel rather than window, reinforced materials designed to withstand extreme pressure while maintaining clear sightlines.

Through this barrier, we watch the unfolding scenario with unobstructed view.

---