The World Trembles
The green finally expanded to his brain, and Howard could distinctly feel that as his brain was invaded, a vast consciousness began to awaken.
It was like a gigantic iceberg rising to the surface of the water, starting as a small white point and then expanding bit by bit, endlessly enlarging.
"Detection of a second-order crisis in base material, emergency measures activated! According to the 'Cross' regulations, reverse base material initiation, second secretary takes over second-level authority!"
...
"Hello, world."
...
Howard opened his eyes.
It was an extraordinary sensation; although his eyes were clearly open, it felt as if another pair of invisible eyes had also opened.
The world remained the same, yet through Howard's eyes, it had transformed entirely.
Observation now approached the essence, influence neared the core.