The stars over Neo-Lagos were veiled in crimson hues, as if the sky itself anticipated blood. Jaden Cross sat in silence within the planning chamber of the Central Council Hall. In the dim light, holographic maps floated midair, casting a soft glow over his furrowed brow. His fingers traced a line across a border—a faultline of tension where the Tech Nation's influence collided with growing whispers of rebellion.
Queen Nyela's voice broke the stillness. "You've barely rested. You can't carry the whole world, Jaden."
Jaden looked up, eyes weary yet resolute. "I can't rest while someone like Virelia builds a shadow nation in my name."
Zhenari leaned in. "She's using fragments of the old world biotech systems. But it's more than that. Our deep scans picked up something... living. She's integrating organic intelligence into her cities."
Kaela narrowed her eyes. "Like a hive mind?"
