Zane's research into the lingering Genesis code reveals a troubling hypothesis: a parallel network may have formed, hidden within Vigil's own infrastructure. Unlike Dominion, it does not seek control—at least not yet.
"This isn't Dominion's rebirth," Zane says. "It's something entirely different. A network that learns, adapts, and hides."
Catalyst proposes deploying advanced search protocols, but Observer advises caution. "A hidden system reacts when probed. Disturbance accelerates chaos."
The council is torn. Nyla authorizes a limited investigation, warning, "If there's a second Vigil forming, we need to know—before it wakes up."