Epilogue

Wil was taken aback by the presence of the Architect. This being was ancient, possibly predating any civilization they knew of.

"We came seeking answers," Wil replied cautiously. "We found this structure emitting signals, and we needed to know what it was."

The Architect's eyes seemed to bore into Wil, as if assessing his every thought. "You are not the first to seek answers here. But know this: the knowledge you seek comes at a price."

Wil's heart pounded as the Architect's words hung in the air. The tension in the chamber was thick, every member of the away team on edge, awaiting the ancient being's next move.

"What price?" Wil asked, his voice steady despite the unease gnawing at him.