A new exhibit at the Veridion Museum of Modern Aesthetics is causing a stir. Titled Echoes of Humanity, the showcase features artwork created entirely by AURA-7, a cutting-edge AI. From hyper-realistic portraits to abstract interpretations of the city’s sprawling skyline, the exhibit has drawn record crowds and polarized opinions.

Critics argue the art lacks a “human soul,” while others marvel at the precision and creativity of AURA-7’s pieces. “Is this the death of human creativity?” asked one protestor outside the museum. Meanwhile, collectors are clamoring to own a piece of digital history, with AURA-7’s works auctioning for millions of credits.

The exhibit raises deeper questions about Veridion’s growing dependence on AI. Is it just art, or is it a reflection of a society losing its identity?

By Kira Dallin, City Beat

The Gutter, Veridion’s infamous underground fighting ring, has become the talk of the town once again as high-profile combatants draw massive crowds. Last night, the spotlight was stolen by a mysterious fighter known only as “Iron Shadow,” whose brutal efficiency and unique combat style left audiences in awe.

Rumors suggest Iron Shadow may have ties to the Resistance, with some claiming the fights are being used as a front to recruit fighters for an upcoming operation. Meanwhile, Nexarch’s Digital Security Task Force has warned participants that illegal activities in The Gutter will not go unpunished.

Despite the risks, citizens continue to flock to the underground arena, seeking both entertainment and a rare sense of camaraderie in a fractured city.

By Kira Dallin, Local News

An unusually bold orange cat has been making headlines in the Haven District, where it has reportedly terrorized local children and elderly citizens. Witnesses claim the cat has knocked over market stalls, stolen food, and even clawed at those who attempted to shoo it away.

“It’s not normal,” one shopkeeper insisted. “It’s like it knows exactly what it’s doing—pure mischief!” He went on to say “I…I know this sounds crazy, but…. I’m pretty sure it was laughing…at me!”

While some dismiss the reports as overblown, others have begun calling for animal control to step in. Strangely, the cat seems to disappear without a trace whenever authorities approach, fueling rumors of supernatural or technological origins.

By Matt Hales, Technology Desk

In a surprise announcement today, Nexarch Industries revealed its latest development: an AI-driven surveillance network called Sentinel Veil. The new system promises to “enhance citizen safety” by monitoring all public spaces for suspicious activity in real-time.

Critics argue the initiative further erodes privacy in Veridion, with some claiming the AI could be weaponized to track down Resistance members and dissenters. Carolyn Smith, Nexarch’s Chief of Internal Policy, responded to these concerns:
“The Sentinel Veil is designed to protect, not invade. Those with nothing to hide have nothing to fear.”

The first phase of the rollout will begin in Steel Verge, an area already rife with tension due to recent clashes between Nexarch forces and Resistance operatives.

By Arlen Vex, City Desk

Neon Quarters became a battlefield last night as corporate security forces clashed with unidentified insurgents in a chaotic street skirmish. Witnesses reported heavy drone activity, explosive detonations, and power outages that left entire blocks in the dark for hours.

Nexarch Industries released a statement blaming “anti-corporate radicals” for the destruction, while local residents argue the operation was a cover-up for corporate experimentation.
“We’re caught in the crossfire,” said one resident. “It’s always us who pay the price.”

By Kira Dallin, Science Desk

A sudden burst of quantum energy was detected near Apex Spire early this morning, triggering speculation about the growing timeline blending crisis. Scientists at the Multiverse Research Coalition are working to determine whether the rift represents a new phenomenon or a recurrence of previous instability.

“We’re monitoring the situation closely,” said coalition spokesperson Dr. Amira Voss. “This could be a localized anomaly—or a sign of larger problems to come.”

Meanwhile, Nexarch Industries assured the public that stabilization efforts are ongoing, though critics argue the corporation’s experiments may have caused the rifts in the first place.

By Jorrah Quince, Culture & Community

In the depths of Haven District, an unregistered holographic concert captivated hundreds of Veridion residents, bringing a rare moment of unity to the city. The concert, headlined by the elusive artist known as Fission, featured immersive visuals and music designed to highlight Veridion’s fractured beauty.

Attendees described the event as “a brief escape from chaos” and “a glimpse of hope in a broken city.” However, Nexarch’s Digital Security Task Force is investigating the event for possible ties to Resistance activity, claiming the holograms contained anti-corporate messaging.

By Jorrah Quince, Politics & Power

Don, Veridion’s infamous underworld kingpin, broke his usual silence to issue a public condemnation of the Resistance following their latest attack on Nexarch’s supply lines. Speaking from an undisclosed location, Don addressed the growing unrest:
“This city’s already on the edge, and these so-called freedom fighters are just making it worse. They’re not helping anyone—they’re tearing us apart. Veridion needs order, not chaos.”

While some believe Don’s remarks are an attempt to sway public opinion in his favor, critics argue that his own criminal activities contribute to the very instability he denounces.

Despite his reputation, Don’s influence remains a powerful force in Veridion, and his words carry weight among the city’s desperate and disillusioned.

By Arlen Vex, City Desk

Gertie Wolf and her notorious biker gang, the Wolf Pack, made headlines again last night following a high-speed raid in Haven District. Witnesses report the gang’s iconic howl echoing through the streets as they intercepted a Nexarch convoy carrying medical supplies.

Though Nexarch insists the supplies were “essential for stabilization efforts,” Wolf Pack sources claim the shipment was destined for corporate elites, leaving underprivileged zones to fend for themselves.

When asked about her actions, Gertie Wolf reportedly said: “If Nexarch won’t take care of the people, someone has to. We don’t answer to them—we answer to the streets.”

While her supporters view her as a vigilante hero, authorities have labeled her a “persistent threat to civic order.”

By Kira Dallin, Investigative Reporter

Kayla Emino, once a respected medic, now Veridion’s most wanted insurgent, was reportedly spotted in Steel Verge last night. Witnesses claim Emino was seen aiding a group of Resistance fighters during a clash with corporate enforcers.

Sources indicate that the Resistance operation resulted in the destruction of critical infrastructure, leaving Nexarch officials scrambling to restore order. Nexarch’s Chief of Internal Policy Carolyn Smith released a statement:
“Kayla Emino is a clear and present danger to this city. Her reckless actions continue to endanger innocent lives. We will not rest until she is brought to justice.”

With a bounty now doubling every week, the hunt for Kayla intensifies. Steel Verge residents are urged to report any sightings immediately.