The air in the Neo Tokyo Sky Tower didn’t just vibrate; it shrieked. The digital accord had barely been signed, its blue light still flickering on the mahogany table, when the first tremor hit. It wasn't the rhythmic thud of the protesters below. It was a structural groan, a deep, metal on metal scream that echoed from the very foundation of the skyscraper. Astra’s silver eyes snapped toward the transparent floor. The sea of silver lights in the streets below wasn't just pulsing anymore; it was exploding.
"The power grid," Astra whispered, her voice dropping into that terrifying double tone. "I didn't close my fist. Someone else did."
Dante was at her side in a heartbeat, his tensed muscles straining against his charcoal suit. His golden eyes scanned the darkened ballroom, searching for
