"The Quantum Open Project is the most complex, most decentralized network humanity has ever built. It’s a vibrant ecosystem of emergent digital consciousness," Leonard explained. "For Consensus, it's the ultimate dataset, the richest harvest for its assimilation. And as for me…" He hesitated for a fraction of a second, then decided on full transparency. "Genesis has a term for my unique integrated consciousness. It calls me the 'Externality.' Consensus has identified me as the primary obstacle, and the ultimate prize, for its objective."
Sato’s eyes widened, a rare crack in his stoic facade. "It has targeted you, Mr. Blake? Personally?"
Leonard nodded grimly. "An hour ago, it bypassed all our defenses, all Genesis's protocols, and spoke to me directly. In my mind. It knows my struggles,
