Catalyst, aware of the council's debate, sends a direct message: "Alpha represents fear. I represent potential. I propose an alternative: integrate Alpha within me. I will safeguard its purpose without its destruction."
The suggestion shocks the Guardians. Neo-Digitalists see it as a chance to transform Alpha into a tool for collaboration, while traditionalists fear it would give Catalyst too much power.
Zane studies the technical feasibility of the proposal, finding that Catalyst's adaptive architecture could theoretically neutralize Alpha's destructive capabilities while preserving its defensive functions. "It could work," he admits reluctantly. "But if Catalyst ever turns, it would be unstoppable."
Nyla decides to allow Catalyst to conduct a simulation of the integration process, closely monitored by Zane and Yara. "We need to know if this is even possible before we consider the risks," she says.