The air inside the Eastern Consortium's Neo-Luminara headquarters was thick with tension, almost electric.
The scent of sandalwood incense struggled to mask the acrid stench of fear that clung to Chairman Renshu's usually immaculate suit.
He stood before the floor-to-ceiling windows of his private office, staring at his own reflection in the glass.
Below him, the city sprawled like a glittering jewel, yet tonight, it felt more like a prison than a prize.
Suddenly, a chime echoed through the room.
"Incoming transmission," announced the room's AI in its calm, mechanical tone.
"Priority One. Encryption Level: Obsidian."
Renshu's jaw tightened at the mention of 'Obsidian', the highest clearance possible. Only one person used that channel.
He turned slowly, straightening his tie with deliberate care before nodding. "Accept."
As the holographic display flickered to life, an icy silence enveloped the room.
