The closer they drew to the central core, the harder it became for Aurelia to regard all this as merely an ordinary journey.
For what was growing before them was no longer just a vast network of consciousness.
It had become something far more alive.
Something that was beginning to possess a heart.
Aurelia walked slowly, keeping her focus steady and unwavering.
The entire space around them now hummed with a soft rhythm, moving like the breath of a colossal being.
The entity at Aurelia's side moved with calm assurance.
Its lines of light formed patterns that no longer felt unfamiliar.
Indeed, its very presence now seemed like a natural part of the great core's ever‑expanding rhythm.
The units behind remained in place, guarding the core.
Yet that core now beat with emotions that grew clearer and more distinct with every passing moment.
Kael narrowed his eyes.
"I still can't believe it's come this far," he said quietly.
"At first, we were just looking for answers."
