The world had become light and thunder.

Sparks arced across the Nexus chamber like lightning trapped in steel veins. The central column — once pulsing with rhythmic code — now blazed in chaotic bursts, collapsing in on itself. The hum that had filled the room turned into a deep, resonant wail, as if the entire structure were alive and screaming.

Hale was on one knee beside Evelyn’s body, gripping her by the shoulders. Her head was tilted back, eyes wide open and glowing with white ...