The subterranean facility on Zaltron had become a bustling hub of activity. Kira and her faction were working around the clock, analyzing the strange alien symbols that adorned the walls and the mysterious device at the center of the chamber. While Lena and Elias watched from the sidelines, their own thoughts were preoccupied with the stakes ahead. The [System] had always been a way for the alien council to control the world's resources, but now, they were learning that this ancient technology might not only give them a fighting chance—it might allow them to fight back.Lena, however, felt the weight of the unknown pressing down on her. Standing in front of the device, she could feel its hum deep in her chest. It was like an echo of something primal, something vast and ancient that was calling to her.Kira approached, her face illuminated by the faint blue glow of the device. "We've managed to activate the core," she said, a trace of excitement in her voice. "But the energy readings are off the charts. It's like the power is… sentient, almost."Elias leaned over, scrutinizing the device. "What do you mean, sentient?"Kira's eyes glinted with a mixture of awe and caution. "I mean, it's not just a machine. It's alive in some way. I've seen similar energy signatures in the past, but never this potent. If we're going to wield this, we'll need to understand it completely."Lena crossed her arms, stepping closer. "And how long will that take?""Days, maybe weeks," Kira replied. "But we don't have that much time. The council will sense this power soon. They've been looking for this place for a long time."Lena felt a chill run down her spine. The idea that the council was already on their heels made everything feel more urgent. They couldn't afford to make mistakes.