Chapter 18 – The Indie Web

Velmora's skies were grayer than usual, with rain drizzling like static over glass. But inside the studio, the energy was electric.

The team had made progress.

VelociVibe confirmed their support.

LoopLab wanted to beta-test exclusive audio drops.

SceneSprout sent over partnership paperwork.

And Unravel? They offered Liam his own creator corridor — a private digital alleyway where fans could interact directly, bypassing every corporate filter.

"They want you to lead their decentralized launch," Ace explained."It's not just a spotlight. It's a throne."

Liam looked at the blueprint Nova projected on the wall. It was messy, yes, but real.Artists helping artists. Data flowing freely. Fans empowered, not exploited.

"We call it The Indie Web," he said."And it starts with us."

Meanwhile, Dex and Jade. Novella worked on a remix drop timed with a Tassaran music festival called SoundSpiral — a digital-first event that prided itself on no censorship and no industry puppeteering.

But as the plans grew bigger, so did the risks.

Rhea Vale — the pop queen, Liam's ex — released a cryptic track titled "Echoed Lies."Its lyrics? Sharpened daggers veiled in velvet.

"You said you weren't like them, but you took your crown and ran…"

The internet erupted.

Fan camps formed. Rumors surged.Some swore the song was about Liam. Others called it a publicity ploy.

Nova turned to Liam, concerned. "Are you going to respond?"

He just smiled. "Eventually. But not with a diss track."

He picked up his phone and called a contact in Cyndral's underground venue circuit.

"Book me a stage," he said."One night. No cameras. Just sound and story."

The End of Chapter 18