As I step out of the shower, still feeling fresh, I realize my father, Marcus, is home. His gaze settles on me, and I pause.

  “Good morning, Father.”

  “Morning, Zero,” Marcus replies.

  “So… why are you here so early? I thought you had more missions to attend to.”

  I wait, watching his expression.

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  “Why does it concern you?” Marcus asks.

  “It doesn’t. I was just asking.”

  “I came to inform you of something. You’re joining the Sentinel Program.”

  The Sentinel Program. I’d heard of it in passing, mostly through videos, but I never paid much attention.

  Hansley glances up, irritation clear on her face.

  “But I’m already busy,” I say. “I don’t need to join the Sentinel Program.”

  Marcus’s eyes narrow.

  “You’re already a failure, Zero. Do this one thing right, and you might finally stop being a burden to this family.”

  I don’t respond right away.

  “…Fine,” I say. “When are we leaving?”

  “Good. Use that brain of yours for once. Ten minutes. Get ready.”

  “Will the Sentinel Program provide the necessary supplies?”

  Marcus nods.

  Ten minutes later.

  I’m standing at the entrance of a massive building. My siblings have already split off into their assigned groups.

  This is as low as it gets.