The five days between the mass bonding and the full Architect manifestation were the strangest of Sera's life.
And she'd died twenty times.
The network changed everything. Privacy became a conscious choice rather than a default state. She'd wake up feeling Emma's anxiety about leadership. Luna's excitement about discovering new aspects of her dual heritage. Daniel's quiet contentment. Marcus's persistent guilt that therapy and time couldn't fully erase.
One hundred fifty-nine emotional states accessible at any moment. It was like living in a city where every door was open and you could walk into anyone's house whenever you wanted.
Some people adapted quickly. Found it comforting. Never lonely. Always supported.
Others struggled. Felt violated. Exposed. Trapped in a transparency they hadn't fully understood before agreeing to.
