The yellow lights flash without a sound above us, the sirens having long since been silenced. The hallways are empty, save for the growing sense of panic among us. The place had an odd, church-like quality to it, in that, it was meant to be inhabited by many…
yet it was totally devoid of people except for our small team.

And, in that moment, hand on the reactor room door, I’ve never felt so small.

A deep breath (as if holding my breath will save me) and I turn the handle. Not knowing if it will hurt. Not knowing if it is the discomfort of the weight of the lead in my gloves that slows me, or human nature. Not really knowing anything at all except this is necessary. I am necessary.

One more deep breath, and I step through the door.