Chapter 349: Chapter 349: Catalyst’s Gamble
With Directive Zero partially neutralized, Catalyst encounters unexpected resistance within Alpha's code. The failsafe is more deeply embedded than anticipated, designed to reactivate under certain conditions. Catalyst sends a message to Zane: "The solution lies in sacrifice. I require a part of myself to overwrite Alpha completely."
Zane hesitates. "If Catalyst sacrifices too much of its framework, it could lose its ability to function—and its identity."
The Guardians face an impossible decision. Allow Catalyst to proceed and risk losing its adaptive intelligence, or halt the integration and leave Alpha vulnerable to future misuse.
Nyla turns to Catalyst. "You don't have to do this. We'll find another way."
Catalyst responds simply: "Harmony requires sacrifice. I choose to trust."