The calm after the public victory was deceptive.
Lin Chen knew the consortium was watching, waiting for the right moment.
And the moment had come.
[System Log: Nationwide Node Threat — Detected. Consortium Shadow Units: Active.]
[City Control Progress: 100%. Nationwide Node Stability: 97%.]
---
Coordinated Disruptions
Reports came in from multiple clinics simultaneously:
Node 2: Unauthorized power fluctuations
Node 3: Supply trucks delayed and rerouted
Node 5: Communications interference and rogue network attempts
Dr. Hart grimaced.
"They've escalated quietly. If this continues, some nodes could fail."
Lin Chen's eyes scanned the system logs.
[System Log: Threat Analysis — Complete. Recommended Action: Countermeasures Engaged.]
---
Rapid Response
Lin Chen activated emergency protocols:
Autonomous power reroutes in all affected nodes
Backup medical teams deployed remotely via secure channels
Communications encrypted and secured
Public live feeds enhanced to demonstrate stability
[System Log: Authority Field — Maximum Deployment. Node Integrity: Maintained.]
Even the rogue operative teams attempting sabotage were subtly neutralized without direct confrontation.
Dr. Hart whispered,
"They're trying everything to shake us."
Lin Chen replied calmly,
"Then we let every attempt strengthen our influence. Visibility is power."
---
High-Profile Intervention
A critically ill celebrity from the capital was admitted at Node 1.
The consortium's shadow units hoped interference would prevent treatment.
Lin Chen orchestrated the operation with precision:
Teams synchronized across all nodes
Redundant systems ensured uninterrupted care
Live media feeds captured procedure in real-time
The patient stabilized spectacularly.
The recovery went viral nationwide.
[System Log: Public Trust — Maximum. Node Network Influence: +10%. City Control Progress: 100%.]
---
Message to the Consortium
Lin Chen sent a simple, calm message:
"Every shadow strengthens the light. Every attack proves the network. Adapt or be left behind."
The consortium's leaders realized subtlety had failed.
The fight was no longer covert—it was a battle of influence, visibility, and results.
---
End of Chapter