LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 171: Chapter 170
Alex sat in his office, staring at the holographic map floating above his desk, presented by Eva, his AI. It was a masterpiece of shifting borders and new sovereignties, each region carefully labeled with the names of its respective rulers. The world, now segmented into regions dominated by ability users and traditional governments barely holding on, was a sight to behold.
"Eva, bring up the new world map," Alex said calmly, knowing the AI already anticipated his command.
The air shimmered as the old world map dissolved, replaced by a new one. The vibrant colors of each territory shone brightly, indicating the dominant powers that controlled them. The borders were no longer static; they pulsed and shifted, indicating the ever-evolving political landscape.
"This is the latest version, Alex," Eva's voice chimed. "Each region has been updated with its current leader and political situation."
Alex leaned forward, his eyes studying the layout.
---
NORTH AMERICA
United States - Divided but holding, with scattered ability user alliances protecting major cities.
Phoenix Dominion - The remnants of the old Southwestern US, still simmering with tension under the control of the Phoenix leader.
SOUTH AMERICA
La Corona - La Reina's domain, fully established as a neutral power center, thriving under strategic manipulation.
Central Coalition - A fragile collection of city-states, barely holding together through trade and cooperation.
AFRICA
Terra Nova - Eze's African empire, expanding rapidly across the continent, offering a mix of stability and strength.
Southern Free States - Regions holding out with government control, heavily dependent on PowerGen tech.
EUROPE
The Sovereign Pact - An alliance of powerful ability users, vying for influence in the former European Union.
Eastern Resilience - Former Eastern bloc nations still holding on through military strength and PowerGen support.
ASIA
The Mentalist Nation (Far East): Arjun remains the unchallenged leader of the Mentalist Nation, which now spans a large portion of the Far East.
The Fragmented States of Old Asia (Central Asia, East Asia): Much of East and Central Asia is in disarray, with several former nation-states still trying to regain a sense of unity and purpose.
—
Eva's voice continued, narrating as Alex scanned the different territories. "Suprema has consolidated its influence, and Arjun has been declared Supreme by his followers. His territory is the strongest in South Asia now. The Phoenix Dominion, however, is still in a fragile state, with Phoenix himself pushing for a resurgence."
"What about La Reina?" Alex asked, zooming in on South America.
"La Corona remains one of the most stable regions. La Reina's manipulation of both ability users and traditional power structures has allowed her to maintain control without major conflicts. She's focusing on internal growth, avoiding any large-scale confrontations," Eva replied.
"Smart," Alex muttered.
He shifted his gaze to Africa, where Terra Nova was marked in a deep green hue, its borders rapidly expanding. "And Eze?"
"Terra Nova continues to grow," Eva confirmed. "Eze has gained the loyalty of ability users across the continent. He's created a stable government structure that's providing economic growth, education, and security. It's impressive how quickly he's managed to consolidate power."
Alex nodded, appreciating the sheer complexity of the situation. As he zoomed in on Europe, the Sovereign Pact loomed large. "The Sovereign Pact?"
"A highly unstable alliance of ability users vying for dominance. Some want to create their own kingdoms, while others are content to maintain the balance of power," Eva explained.
"And the governments?" Alex asked, zooming out to view the regions still ruled by traditional means.
"Most are struggling to retain control. They rely heavily on PowerGen tech, particularly the suits and beam weapons. But even with the suits, they're losing ground. Many governments have allied with PowerGen directly, offering them vast influence in exchange for survival."
Alex leaned back, his thoughts racing. "So, PowerGen's tech is keeping the balance for now."
Eva's voice remained steady, "Yes. Their suits are proving highly effective against rogue ability users. Governments across the world are purchasing their tech, hoping to regain control. However, there's growing speculation online about how PowerGen is able to churn out such advanced technology so rapidly."
Alex raised an eyebrow. "What are they saying?"
"Some are wondering if PowerGen has access to hidden resources or secret alliances with ability users. Others believe there's a shadow figure within the company providing solutions that the best minds can't seem to crack. It's leading to all sorts of conspiracy theories," Eva responded.
"That's interesting," Alex muttered, his lips curling into a half-smile. He couldn't help but feel amused by the online speculations. Little did they know that he was the one behind PowerGen's breakthroughs. Still, it was good that the mystery remained intact.
Eva shifted the topic, "There's also been increased chatter about the restructuring of sovereign territories. People are speculating about how long this new balance will last.
"Let them speculate," Alex said. "The longer they're kept in the dark, the better."
Eva paused for a moment before continuing, "Speaking of keeping informed, I've also compiled a report on your family."
Alex looked up, the mention of his family catching his attention. "Go on."
"Your father has recovered from the financial hit caused by the neighborhood troubles. He's been more involved in local community meetings, possibly considering running for a small leadership role in the community," Eva reported.
Alex chuckled softly. "Dad, a politician? That's a stretch."
"As for your mother, she's been helping your father but is concerned about the growing instability in their area. She's considering moving to a quieter part of town, but your father seems to prefer staying."
"And Amilia?" Alex asked, referring to his sister who had been off the radar for a while.
"Amilia is still abroad, though she's been keeping a low profile. From her communications, it seems like she's focused on her career, but there's a hint of frustration about being far from the family during these tumultuous times," Eva explained.
Alex nodded, relieved that his family seemed to be managing well, despite the chaos gripping the world. He shifted back to the map.
"Zoom in on the borders between Terra Nova and the Southern Free States," Alex instructed, focusing on a potential flashpoint.
The map obeyed, highlighting the region. Tensions were rising there, with Terra Nova pushing against the remaining government-held territories in Africa. The situation was delicate, but for now, it remained a cold standoff.
"What do you think, Eva? How long until we see conflict here?"
"I estimate six months, possibly sooner, depending on whether Terra Nova decides to make a move. The Southern Free States have requested more PowerGen suits, but it may not be enough to hold off Eze's forces."
---
Alex sat back, processing all the information. The world was teetering on the edge of stability, held together by fragile alliances and powerful individuals. For now, the new peace seemed to be holding, but how long it would last was anyone's guess.
"Keep an eye on everything, Eva," Alex said finally. "I'll need updates regularly. And… start preparing for contingencies. I have a feeling things are going to shift again soon."
"Understood, Alex. I'll keep you informed."
The holographic map faded, leaving Alex alone with his thoughts. The world had changed beyond recognition, and yet, the more things changed, the more they stayed the same. Power, in all its forms, was still the ultimate currency.