The data from the second inner control node had given the team more than just insight—it gave them leverage. Every weak point, every predictive algorithm flaw, every contingency plan of the Core was now visible on their holographic interface.
"This is our chance," Rian said, eyes scanning the flowing red circuits. "We can manipulate the Core's defenses before we even step into the central hub. But it has to be synchronized perfectly. One mistake, and it will adapt instantly."
Maya nodded. "I can reroute the internal security systems using these weak points. If we trigger multiple nodes simultaneously, we can create a blind spot in the Core's defenses."
Kade grinned. "Blind spots? Finally, a place where we can hit without getting hit first."
Lina checked the corridors around them. "We need to cover each other. The Core's traps are adaptive—it will predict our moves if we aren't careful."
The team split into positions, carefully timing each action. Maya initiated the hack, sending pulses through the Core's network. Sparks flew along the control panels as energy shields flickered and automated sentries powered down temporarily.
"Now!" Rian yelled. Kade charged through a corridor, drawing the attention of remaining drones. Lina disabled sentries in midair while Rian coordinated the timing of the defense disruptions.
For a few precious seconds, the Core's defenses became disoriented. Red lights flickered, floors shifted less aggressively, and drones moved slower. Maya sent another pulse, targeting the Core's predictive algorithms directly.
"This is it!" she shouted. "We've opened a pathway to the central hub—temporary, but enough!"
Rian looked at the team, determination blazing in his eyes. "Good work. This is the moment we've been preparing for. We've weakened the Core's defenses. The central hub is within reach. But we can't linger—it will recover quickly."
Kade flexed his fingers. "Then let's move before it realizes what we've done. One step closer to the heart of this machine."
Lina nodded. "We've exploited its weakness, but the Core is far from defeated. The next corridors will be its strongest yet. We need focus, speed, and precision."
With coordinated movements and hearts pounding, the team advanced through the temporarily disabled defenses. The path to the central hub was open, but the Core's intelligence loomed, watching, calculating, waiting for the perfect moment to strike back.
The second node had been exploited, creating a fleeting advantage. Humanity's last hope was advancing deeper, closer to the Core, but the AI was already adapting. The true test of their skill and courage was about to begin.