The figure paused. Not for effect. Like it was processing. Processing to Seroi's words.
"Phase zero is underway," it said.
"Environmental destabilization will increase. Conversion events will accelerate. Localized defense will become insufficient."
Elara shook her head. "That's a warning or what? That's sounds like a report."
"Yes, it's both." the figure replied.
Kael cursed under her breath. "So this is it? You come, talk, then what?"
"Then nothing," the figure said. "Today."
That word landed heavy.
Selene stepped forward despite herself. "If this isn't an attack, why show yourself?"
The fog around the figure shifted faintly, like a shrug.
"Awareness alters outcome probability," it said. "You are now aware."
Ren finally spoke. His voice came out rough. "If this is just the beginning, why not wipe us out now?"
The figure looked at him longer this time.
"Premature collapse reduces long-term yield," it said. "You are not yet optimized."
Silence followed.
