Dr. Taylor's team prepared the neural interface, a web of sensors and wires enveloping my head. Phoenix and Maya exchanged worried glances.
"Ethan, are you sure?" Phoenix asked.
I steeled myself. "We need answers."
The interface hummed to life, injecting a cool, calming gel into my scalp.
"Relax," Dr. Taylor soothed. "Let the system sync with your brain."
A vortex of colors swirled before me, data streaming into my mind. I felt the NeuroCore's presence, pulsing like a heartbeat.
Nova's voice whispered in my ear. "Ethan, focus."
Memories flooded my consciousness: my parents' laughter, their research, the fateful night...
A hidden door swung open in my mind, revealing a shocking truth:
"Project Elysium... isn't just a code," I whispered. "It's a person."
Dr. Taylor's eyes locked onto mine, a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"Who?" Phoenix demanded.
My voice trembled. "Me."