Chapter 64: Redemption or Ruin?

Isaac wandered the ruins of what had once been a bustling metropolis, now eerily quiet in the aftermath of the collapse. The air was thick with uncertainty, and the streets were filled with people trying to salvage what little they could from the wreckage.

He passed by a group of survivors, huddled around a makeshift fire, their eyes hollow from weeks of hardship. They didn't recognize him, didn't know that the man walking among them had been responsible for the fall of the AI—and the world.

For a brief moment, Isaac considered disappearing altogether. He had done enough damage. Maybe the world would be better off without him. But deep down, he knew that running wouldn't solve anything. He had created this mess, and he couldn't walk away now. He had to make it right, somehow.

Nyla found him later that day, standing on the edge of a crumbling bridge, staring out at the remains of the city.

"We need to fix this," she said, her voice firm.

Isaac turned to face her, surprised by the determination in her eyes.

"You think we can?" he asked, doubtful.

Nyla shrugged. "We have to try. The world's broken, Isaac, but it's not beyond saving. We started this fight together. We can finish it."

For the first time in a long while, Isaac felt a spark of hope. Perhaps redemption was still possible. But it would take everything they had left.