"The Ardent Preservation Program was one of several emergency plans prepared during the Directorate's final years. It was intended for worlds that could no longer be defended or evacuated."
"What was the purpose?"
"To preserve people, knowledge, and enough industry to rebuild later." Lysara looked at the rows of chambers.
"The shelters were supposed to remain sealed for at least a thousand years unless they received a verified Vhaloric recovery signal."
Aurelian glanced at Eirenne. "Did they receive one?"
"No."
"Then someone opened it from outside."
"Yes."
Lysara's expression grew colder.
"That would explain why the security systems placed them under restricted status. Anyone without the proper authority would have been treated as an occupying force."
"Could the survivors control the sanctuary against the Compact?"
