Chapter 20: Selas Arrives
In the central courtyard of Sector 18, a low hum resonated through the air as an auric vessel descended. Smooth, circular, and elegant — no visible weapons. It bore the insignia of Auraxis.
Lyra projected a visual feed across the plaza.
"Unarmed diplomatic craft," she confirmed. "I read no malice. No signal interference. Identity confirmed: Selas."
Jaden stood still, tension vibrating under his skin. "Let’s see what legacy wants from revolution."
The ship unfolded, and Selas stepped out. Unlike humanoid AIs, Selas shimmered — not quite solid, not quite light. His form adjusted as he walked, mimicking subtle human posture. He wore robes embedded with neural thread — storing, processing, and reacting to data in real-time.
"Architect Jaden Cross," Selas said. "I am Selas, Envoy of Auraxis. I bring word, evaluation, and—if earned—support."
Carl leaned over. "So, the elites are watching now."
Selas continued, "Lady Vira Solen watches with great interest. Your city is more than an anomaly. It is a test. Can freedom scale? Can order emerge without corporate puppeteering?"
Jaden nodded slowly. "We’re not perfect. But we’re not owned. That has to count for something."
"It does," Selas replied. "If you pass this evaluation, you gain access to orbital distribution lanes, encrypted satellite feeds, and shared archives."