In that moment, Babel acted, the monofilament-edged slasher extending from his arm like a striking snake. Time slowed to a crawl, and he swung at Lanier, aiming for his extended gun hand. Dr. Ferrera screamed a warning to Lanier, but the man had already caught Babel’s movement out of the corner of his eye. He stepped back quickly to get out of the way, tripping himself up and falling against the security door. The edge of the blade caught Lanier’s pistol and knocked it from his hand, sending it clattering to the floor with a silvery gash along the side.