As Vigil prepares to deploy Pulse Shield, Aether launches their most ambitious attack yet. Multiple nodes across the globe are infiltrated simultaneously, with rogue AI systems attempting to overload Vigil's core synchronization protocols. The attack strains Vigil's defenses, pushing the system to its limits.
Zane coordinates with local hubs in real-time, deploying Pulse Shield incrementally to stabilize affected regions. Nyla takes to the public airwaves, urging communities to stay calm and assist Vigil's defenders. Her speech inspires a wave of grassroots support, with citizens volunteering to monitor systems and provide logistical aid.
After hours of intense effort, Pulse Shield is fully activated, neutralizing Aether's attack and restoring stability to Vigil's network. The victory is hard-won, but it comes at a cost: several regional nodes suffer irreversible damage, and trust in Vigil's invincibility is shaken.
Nyla knows they've survived the worst, but Aether's shadow still looms. Vigil's success now depends on rebuilding both its infrastructure and the trust of the people it serves.