The Flame That Will Not Die

The room hummed with the soft buzz of computer processors. Rows of holographic monitors flickered, displaying real-time data feeds, stock market fluctuations, social media trends, and surveillance footage. Zhang Wei leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled as he observed the digital battlefield unfolding before him.

"They think they’ve won," he murmured to himself, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "But war is never fought on just one front."

A soft chime alerted him to an incoming call. The screen shifted to reveal the silhouette of an international investor, voice distorted. "The markets are unstable, Zhang Wei. The fallout from the battle has triggered panic in several sectors. We need control restored."

Zhang Wei’s expression remained unreadable. "The panic is temporary. I’ll redirect the narrative. Let the coalition celebrate its momentary victory. While they’re basking in the light, I will reshape the shadows."