A/N: putting this before the chapter so no one misunderstands, NEWS ARTICLES are very slanted to other factions. Some will say the icw didn't act but they obviously did
——
The screen flashes with the bold red letters: "Breaking News." The camera cut to a blonde anchorwoman with a grave expression. Behind her, a large image of the Grand Canyon is displayed, smoke still rising from the desolation.
The blonde Anchorwoman stared directly into the camera, "Good evening, we begin with a shocking and devastating incident at the Grand Canyon. Officials are calling it one of the most catastrophic attacks on U.S. soil in recent history. Just hours ago, a massive explosion rocked the iconic landmark, reducing parts of the canyon to rubble. Authorities are currently investigating the cause, though preliminary reports suggest a possible terrorist attack."
The broadcast cuts to helicopter footage of the canyon's destruction. Jagged cliffs lie in ruin, with a thick haze of smoke lingering above the desolate ground. Rescue teams in orange vests move carefully through the wreckage.
The Anchorwoman's voice sounded as the cameras showed the devastation, "Eyewitnesses reported a blinding flash of light followed by what some described as a shockwave. The explosion was powerful enough to be felt from nearby towns, shattering windows and sending tremors through the region."
The camera cuts to a trembling man in his mid-50s, identified as a tourist.
The tourist trembled, "It was like the earth just… split open. People were screaming, running. I've never seen anything like it."
Back in the studio, the anchorwoman continued with a somber tone.
"The FBI and Homeland Security have launched a full-scale investigation. While no group has claimed responsibility, officials are not ruling out the possibility of domestic or international terrorism. The death toll remains uncertain, but sources on the ground report that dozens are still missing."
She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly.
"What remains unclear is how such an immense explosion occurred with no visible trace of conventional explosives. As the nation watches in horror, many are left asking — what could have caused this destruction?"
The screen fades to black.
⸻
The Wizarding Times
Front Page Headline:
"BATTLE OF THE CANYON: DARK FORCES STRIKE AT THE HEART OF EARTH'S MAGIC!"
The moving photograph beneath the headline shows the scorched remains of the canyon, with shadowy wisps of lingering magic still pulsing in the air. Wizards in dark robes inspect the damage, their wands glowing faintly.
Article Excerpt:
"In what is now being called the 'Battle of the Canyon,' dark forces led by infernal entities clashed with human and magical defenders. Sources confirm that the destruction of the anchor — a powerful magical structure — has disrupted ancient wards protecting the realm. While the ICW remains tight-lipped on the details, rumors suggest that both angelic and demonic beings participated in the fray. Despite their apparent victory, the cost may be unimaginable."
Subheadline:
"Morpheus Everglade Seen at the Battlefield — Hero or Conspirator?"
The article speculates about the presence of Morpheus Everglade, noting conflicting reports on his role in the conflict. His involvement in the destruction of the anchor remains under investigation.
⸻
The Daily Prophet
Front Page Headline:
"GRAND CANYON IN RUINS: ICW FACES CRITICISM FOR LACK OF RESPONSE"
A grainy photo of the collapsing canyon dominates the page, accompanied by quotes from concerned magical officials.
Article Excerpt:
"While the muggle world remains oblivious to the true nature of the attack, the magical community knows better. Despite repeated warnings, the ICW failed to intervene before catastrophe struck. Ministerial officials from across the globe are calling for greater transparency and increased protection of Earth's remaining anchors."
Further down the page, a separate column highlights the presence of Herpo the Foul.
"Herpo Sighted — The Dark Legacy Returns?"
"The infamous dark wizard, presumed defeated for centuries, has emerged once more. His basilisk form was seen ravaging the battlefield, further confirming his allegiance to the ancient forces of darkness. What this means for the future of our world remains uncertain."
⸻
The Evening Oracle
Front Page Headline:
"A SHIFT IN MAGIC: THE WORLD TREMBLES"
A dramatic moving photograph depicts powerful magical ripples distorting the air, sending tremors through ancient standing stones in England and shaking magical wards across the globe.
Article Excerpt:
"Experts report that the destruction of the Grand Canyon anchor has caused a sudden imbalance in the magical ley lines. Several wards, including the protective barriers around major magical cities, flickered upon the anchor's fall. Reports from St. Mungo's confirm a surge in magical disturbances, with dozens of healers now treating cases of magical instability."
A quote from renowned magi-physicist Aldous Greaves reads:
"The magical fabric of our world has been weakened. If further anchors fall, we may see catastrophic disruptions on a scale we have never witnessed."
Below the quote, a smaller headline reads:
"Is This the Beginning of a New Age of Chaos?"
*Morpheus pov*
Drained I felt unimaginably drained.
I don't know what was worse, being tricked or losing the anchor. Yes being tricked was worse after all it led to the fall of the anchor.
Their strategy was far out of my expectations, sacrificing two generals Azrathos and Zachariah. Possessing humans with their elite soldiers to run a suicide mission.
Its never been done before it the history of our war. They were too prideful to arrogant to do something so.
So selfless.
My magic was still recovering and my brother wouldn't let me live this down, "You messed up." Herpo laughed, "Two pills really? Even with your aguments, no human Is meant to handle that much magic."
I groaned while plucking my wine glass from the counter, "Possession, I thought it was just a new strategy for reaching our realm. With this win they will entice others to sell their bodies for power, we won't know ally from foe soon enough."
Herpo nodded, "They kept the battlefield dense with their stench, it was impossible to tell without being face-to-face with one."
Scoffing I took another sip of my wine, "Sometimes I forget they have been planning for this war just as long as I have. The ICW is holding a open floor to address our next actions. During that time we have two tasks, brother. First, we must bring to the floor our beastly union to the Wizengamot and win. To do this you need to convince your allies it's a good idea. I will speak to the grey families we don't have much time the Wizengamot is in two days."
Herpo nodded in agreement, "And the other task?"
I grunted, "I have to get Nicolas to help make me something, unfortunately he isn't my biggest fan right now."
Herpo laughed, "That one is quite stubborn. I don't know who has the harder task me or you."
Despite our situation I couldn't help but laugh, "Feels like the old days doesn't it? Anyways I'm interested to hear your plan for getting the dark to agree with the light."
Herpo looked thoughtful for a moment, "Albus and I have something in the works I think as shall push it up a bit."
"Oh, you and Albus?" I teased, "Making friends brother?"
Herpo chuckled, "You know, he is an interesting man. I don't think I've met someone with so much inner conflict in some time."
Nodding I refilled Herpo's glass, "He is quite an interesting man, you know his past is truly wonderful."
Herpo leaned forward, "Do tell me more."
***
While Morpheus and Herpo tried to enjoy their time before having to get back to work. The survivors of the canyon were not as lucky.
"General." a tall wizard spoke, "Debrief me again, this time go over all actions taken by Morpheus Everglade since entering the battlefield."
The general sighed, "Can't I go see my family."
"Soon general, I'm sorry but we must understand what happened so we can never lose again. Right now you are the most experienced person in the ICW at fighting these creatures, we need to know every drop of information you have before the conference."
"Very well."