Crowned by Code - Chapter 1: The Announcement ~ (5/9) Erevania's Digital Sphere

In the hours following the announcement, Erevania’s interconnected digital networks were ablaze with activity. Social media platforms overflowed with posts, hashtags trending at unprecedented speeds: #AthenaBetrayed, #NotMyLeader, and #ReclaimErevania. Citizens uploaded videos expressing their disbelief, some shouting angrily into their cameras while others wept openly. Memes mocking Athena’s decision flooded the feeds, juxtaposing Darius’s mugshot with captions like, “The AI Has Malfunctioned” and “Welcome to Crime Nation.”

On the other side of the debate, a small but vocal minority of citizens attempted to defend Athena’s decision. Academics and analysts speculated that the choice was part of a long-term strategy beyond human comprehension. “Trust in Athena” became the rallying cry of those who still believed in the AI’s infallibility.

The divide was stark. Protest groups mobilized rapidly, calling for immediate action. One influential activist group, Citizens for Sovereign Choice, announced plans for a nationwide march.

Meanwhile, Erevania’s ruling elites scrambled to control the narrative. Emergency meetings were convened across government ministries. Viktor Sarren leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled, as he listened to the frantic exchanges among Erevania’s leadership.

“This is unsustainable,” Governor Alina Veyden said, her voice taut with urgency. “The people won’t accept this without a fight.”

“The people don’t matter,” Viktor countered smoothly. “What matters is that we keep control long enough to redirect this mess into something… useful.” He tapped on his wristpad, scanning the real-time analytics of Erevania’s unrest.

Public polls conducted by major news outlets indicated that over 70% of citizens believed Athena’s decision needed to be overturned.

“Athena has always been the bedrock of Erevania’s success,” Viktor’s voice echoed in the chambers of power. “But today, it has faltered. We must question whether the system we built to guide us has become a threat to our stability.”

A former military official shifted in his seat. “There’s already talk of bringing in Cassian,” he muttered.

Viktor’s gaze snapped to him. “Elior Cassian?”

The official nodded. “Athena has consulted him before, and some within the Vanguard Coalition still see him as a stabilizing force. If Athena intends to back this criminal, Cassian might be her next move.”

Across the table, another official scoffed. “The Vanguard is fracturing. Some of their high-ranking members still believe Athena’s decisions are absolute, but others—especially those overseeing national security—are beginning to question her logic.”

Viktor steepled his fingers, his expression unreadable. “And which side do you fall on?”

The room fell into silence. The unspoken truth lingered—if the Vanguard Coalition turned against Athena’s rule, Erevania’s entire power structure could collapse into chaos.

Viktor exhaled sharply, considering the implications. “Cassian has been out of the game for years. He wouldn’t risk his name on a failed cause.”

“Perhaps,” the official replied. “But if Athena calls, he may not have a choice.”

Viktor’s expression darkened. He did not like unknown variables, and Elior Cassian had always been one.