LIGHTNOVELONLINE Chapter 185: Chapter 184
As the sun rose over the city of Dallas, Texas, a palpable tension filled the air. The Central Coalition had convened an emergency meeting to discuss the ramifications of the new techniques released on the Stargazer forum. For Governor Natalie and her council, the stakes had never been higher. If they didn't act quickly, the very fabric of their coalition could unravel.
The Meeting Room
Natalie stood at the head of the long conference table, flanked by her advisors, each wearing a grim expression. The walls of the room were lined with screens displaying live feeds from various media outlets, each broadcasting the growing interest in the new techniques. She took a deep breath before addressing the room.
"Thank you all for coming on such short notice. As you know, the frequency techniques that have emerged are causing quite a stir," she began, her voice steady but urgent. "Our intelligence reports indicate that the Southern Free State is already mobilizing to obtain these techniques. If we don't act fast, we risk losing control of the narrative—and the power."
"Governor, with all due respect," interjected General Harlowe, leaning forward in his seat, "the longer we wait, the more likely it is that the people will turn against us. They see the ability-user nations growing stronger, and they're becoming restless. If we don't offer them something—"
"—They'll look for it elsewhere," finished Captain Rivers, the coalition's head of intelligence. "If they believe they can gain powers like the ones in La Corona or Phoenix Dominion, they'll revolt. We need to show them that we can match that power."
Natalie nodded. "Exactly. But how do we do that? We can't just barge into the tech market and start acquiring techniques without raising suspicion. We need a plan—something that will allow us to get our hands on these techniques without revealing our desperation."
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After a lengthy discussion, one of Natalie's younger advisors, Claire, spoke up, her eyes bright with an idea. "What if we set up a task force to infiltrate the Stargazer forum? If we can get access to their database, we could gain firsthand knowledge of the techniques and adapt them for our own use. We could even create a counter-technique to train our soldiers."
"Sounds risky," Harlowe replied, crossing his arms. "The forum is well-protected. Hackers have tried and failed to breach its security numerous times. What makes you think we'll succeed?"
"I've been following their discussions," Claire said confidently. "There are always cracks in their defenses—backdoors left by overconfident members. If we can find someone on the inside willing to help, we might have a chance."
Natalie considered this. The idea of infiltrating the forum was dangerous, but it could also be their best shot at acquiring the techniques they desperately needed. "All right, let's proceed with caution. I want a small, discreet team formed. If we can get into their database, we can turn this situation around."
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As the meeting adjourned, Natalie called Claire aside. "You're in charge of this operation. I need you to find someone who can get us inside. We can't afford any mistakes."
"Understood, Governor," Claire replied, a determined glint in her eye. "I'll start looking for contacts within the hacker community who have tried to breach the forum. If anyone can help us, it's them."
Natalie watched as Claire walked away, her mind racing. She felt the weight of responsibility heavier than ever. The balance of power was shifting, and if they didn't adapt quickly, their coalition might soon become just another victim of the chaos brewing outside their walls.
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Meanwhile, in the heart of Dallas, citizens were beginning to react to the news. Local cafes buzzed with conversations about the techniques. At the Rusty Nail Coffee Shop, a group of friends huddled around a table, their voices rising with excitement and anxiety.
"Did you hear about those new techniques?" exclaimed Jenna, her green eyes wide with wonder. "They say anyone can learn to control elements. Just imagine if we could harness fire or earth!"
"Yeah, but it's not that simple," replied Marcus, shaking his head. "There are people out there who have trained for years. Just because we have access to a technique doesn't mean we'll be able to master it. And what happens if everyone starts practicing? We could have chaos on our hands."
"Or we could finally be equal to the ability users," countered Lisa, a thrill in her voice. "If we don't try, we'll always be at their mercy. I say we take the plunge."
As the debate intensified, whispers of discontent and desire filled the coffee shop. The allure of power was intoxicating, and the fear of being left behind was palpable.
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Outside the café, crowds began to gather in the streets. Flyers circulated, urging people to unite and demand access to the new techniques. The message was clear: if the government wouldn't help them, they would take matters into their own hands.
As news of the protests reached Natalie's office, she felt a shiver of dread. The populace was restless, and the allure of power was drawing them like moths to a flame. If she didn't act quickly, the very people she was trying to protect might become her greatest threat.
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That evening, Governor Natalie addressed the citizens of Dallas through a live broadcast. She stood behind a podium, her expression serious yet calm. "My fellow Texans, I know that the emergence of new techniques has stirred excitement and uncertainty among you. I assure you that your government is working tirelessly to ensure your safety and security in this new world. We will not let chaos take hold."
The response was mixed. Some cheered, feeling reassured by her words, while others shouted for more transparency. As she finished her speech, Natalie knew that her path was fraught with danger. The balance of power was shifting, and the next move could decide the fate of their coalition.
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In the shadows, Claire was already working, networking with the hacker community, eager to find a way into the Stargazer forum.