"Second," Alistair continued, "we send our own message."
The hologram flickered to life, zooming in on ten military-style bases, the Consortium's strategic strongholds and trading hubs nestled within the Federation.
Kingston couldn't help but smirk, his lips curling into a cold smile. "Subtle?"
Alistair's grin was razor-thin, a predator sizing up its prey. "Enough to remind them who they're dealing with."
As Kingston turned to leave, a thought struck him like lightning. "Father, if the Consortium is sending a message… why not claim the kill publicly? Why keep it a secret from me?"
Alistair's expression darkened as he fell into an icy silence.
-------
In the Eastern Consortium's private comms chamber, shadows danced across the walls, creating an atmosphere thick with tension. Raven stood at the center of this dimly lit room, her golden cyber-eye casting an eerie glow against the steel surfaces.
