Beyond the perimeter wall stood rows of massive gas storage tanks—enormous structures as tall as ten-story buildings, with astonishing circumferences. They resembled giant grain silos. Scattered among them were a few isolated buildings: employee dormitories and office blocks.

Yet, the entire area felt deserted. Not a single person was in sight.

Was it simply too cold, so everyone had gone indoors?

No.

If Ray were in charge here, he'd station guards no matter how cold it got—post sentries at