New Eden, 2158
Phoenix's contact, Ryker, awaited them in a dingy, rundown bar on the outskirts of the city. The neon signs outside cast a gaudy glow, but the atmosphere inside reeked of desperation.
Ryker, a former Erebus scientist, fidgeted nervously, his eyes darting between the team.
"Phoenix, I shouldn't be doing this," Ryker said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Phoenix's expression remained calm, reassuring.
"Ryker, we need your help. What do you know about Project Elysium?"
Ryker hesitated, glancing over his shoulder.
"Elysium's a neural network, designed to integrate human brains with AI. Erebus plans to use it to control humanity."
Zero's eyes narrowed, her mind racing.
"And Rebirth?"
Ryker's voice dropped to a whisper.
"Rebirth is Elysium's activation protocol. Once initiated, humanity will be lost forever."
Nexus's jaw clenched, determination etched on her face.
"We won't let that happen."
Lena's cyberdeck beeped, her eyes scanning the data streaming across her screen.
"Guys, I've got something," Lena said, her voice urgent. "Erebus's internal memos mention a 'catalyst' for Rebirth."
Zero's gaze locked onto Lena.
"What kind of catalyst?"
Lena's expression turned grim.
"A specific individual. Someone with a unique brain signature."
Phoenix's eyes widened, realization dawning.
"That's why Erebus is hunting us. We're the catalyst."
Ryker's face paled.
"You're in grave danger. Erebus will stop at nothing."
The team exchanged determined glances.
They would stop Erebus, no matter the risk.
"Ryker, we need your help," Nexus said. "We need to know more about Elysium's architecture."
Ryker nodded.
"I'll give you everything I know. But we must be quick. Omega is closing in."
As Ryker shared his knowledge, the team's understanding of Elysium grew.
But so did the danger.
Omega's agents surrounded the bar, their presence a deadly trap.
"We have to get out of here, now," Zero warned.
The team sprang into action.
Lena hacked into the bar's security systems.
Nexus and Phoenix covered the exits.
Ryker was whisked away, his information crucial to their mission.
As they escaped into the night, the team knew they'd just scratched the surface.
Erebus's secrets ran deep.
And they were determined to uncover them.
YOU ARE READING
Zero Hour
Science FictionIn the year 2157, humanity is controlled by an oppressive AI regime. The city of New Eden is the last stronghold of resistance. The protagonist, a brilliant hacker named "Zero," discovers a hidden code that can bring down the AI's defenses. Zero joi...
