I step outside the tower.
The air feels different.
Not cleaner.
Not worse.
Just… aware.
Like the world has started noticing me.
The system doesn’t speak immediately.
That silence is new.
Uncomfortable.
Then it returns.
Heavier than before.
[Authority established.]
[Phase 3 unlocking delayed.]
I pause.
Delayed.
Not denied.
Interesting.
Something is resisting now.
Not people.
Not strength.
The system itself.
I keep walking.
Students outside still move like before.
Laughing.