The holographic news telecaster flickered to life, casting a pale blue glow across my dimly lit room. It bore the monotone expression of a woman slightly too good at her job.

"We begin tonight's broadcast with a tragic and shocking development," the telecaster began, her voice a blend of urgency and gravity. "The governor of our beloved southern capital, Astra, Lysander Luvisi, was found dead earlier today under mysterious circumstances."

The screen displayed a holographic image of the late governor—a distinguished man with silver hair and piercing blue eyes. The Luvisi family emblem, a regal phoenix, adorned his lapel. The camera then cut to a scene outside the Luvisi mansion, where police officers and investigators could be seen rushing in and out of the grand estate, setting up a perimeter. The woman continued to speak through the clip.

"Governor Luvisi, a prominent figure in both politics and business, was known for his charismatic leadership and dedication to the people of Astra. As the head of the Luvisi family, he presided over a vast empire of industries, making him one of the most influential and powerful dynasties on Theia."

There was a slight pause before the holographic screen returned to the news anchor.

"Authorities have yet to release details surrounding Governor Luvisi's untimely demise," the telecaster continued. "But sources close to the investigation suggest it may be related to a recent incident in the capital of Meta."

This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

The scene shifted to footage of the devastation in Meta's western sector, where entire blocks of buildings lay in ruins, and plumes of smoke darkened the sky.

"Less than a week ago," the telecaster explained, "the capital of Meta was shaken by a violent explosion, which reduced a significant portion of the western sector to rubble."

Images of the destruction were juxtaposed with a face, a young man whose features seemed at odds with the destruction surrounding him.

"Delta, nephew of Emperor Epsilon and a member of the royal family, has been identified in connection with the incident. Delta's genetic markers were reportedly found at the scene," the telecaster revealed.

As the holographic news report unfolded, the implications became clear. The destruction in Meta, coupled with my alleged involvement, had raised suspicions that the attack was politically motivated—a strike against the growing opposition to the dominant royal family.

"But," the telecaster added, her tone shifting subtly, "in a surprising twist, Emperor Epsilon has publicly omitted Delta from any involvement in Governor Luvisi's death. The Emperor's decree has stirred controversy, leaving many to question the true motivations behind these events."

The screen then transitioned to the front of the palace where Epsilon often stood for his speeches, well above the people but only separated by a vast staircase. He began to speak.

"My heart aches for the loss of Governor Luvisi. He was not only a trusted ally but also a beloved member of our community..."

In the corner of the screen, something else caught my eye. It was the face of a popular influencer in the world of combat by the name of "Cobalt," juxtaposed against a younger, unfamiliar face.

I flicked a switch, the holographic telecaster blinking out of existence, leaving the room in darkness once more.