The tunnels beneath the Colaba district were narrow and wet. Water from the Arabian Sea seeped through the ancient brick walls, creating a constant, dripping sound that echoed in the dark.
Vikram led the way, his hand guiding Rohan along the slippery ledge.
"The air is getting thick," Rohan whispered, coughing into his collar.
"Toxic gas," Vikram said, his Prana sensing the chemical composition. "Malhotra has flooded the outer tunnels with hydrogen sulfide to keep the sewer workers out."
"Put these on," Rahul's voice came through the radio. He had given them small filtration masks before they entered.
They pulled the rubber masks over their faces. The air became dry and tasted of charcoal, but the burning in their lungs stopped.
Suddenly, Vikram stopped, raising his hand.
Ahead of them, a series of red laser beams cut through the damp air. They were moving in a slow, rhythmic pattern, scanning the tunnel floor.
"Physical sensors," Vikram said. "If we touch them, they'll flood the tunnel with Aetheric water. We'll be electrocuted."
"I can disable the emitter," Rohan said, stepping forward. He took out his multi-tool, his hands steady despite the throbbing pain in his leg. He reached into the junction box on the wall, cutting the green wire.
The red lasers died.
"Nice work," Vikram said. "Let's move."