Chapter 205

Chapter 205 KAEL The sterile room of Lab Three felt different now—as if something was waiting just beyond our perception. The hologram displayed a visual representation of the Containment Interface: layers of security protocols nested like concentric shells, with a glowing communication core at its center. “Initiation protocol ready,” Seraphina reported from her main console. Her voice was calm, professional, but I could hear the tension beneath it. “The invitation signal will be sent through the same channel the entity used to communicate previously. Encrypted, limited bandwidth, and time-restricted.” “Watchdog AI active,” added Martinez from his monitor station. “If there is any unexpected activity, the system will automatically disconnect within 0.3 seconds.” Chen stood behind us, his hands folded. “What happens if it doesn't respond?” “Then we know it has chosen not to engage,” I replied. “That itself is useful data.” “And if it responds too quickly? Too strongly?” “That's what the