Chapter 92: Severing Ties

Chris entered the grand conference room of Blackwood Empire, his presence commanding immediate silence. The board members, executives, and high-ranking officials sat in anticipation, their eyes filled with both admiration and unease. They all knew—the man standing before them wasn't just their leader. He was their empire.

Ethan stood at the head of the table, nodding subtly as Chris took his seat.

"Let's begin," Chris said, his voice calm but firm.

Ethan cleared his throat and opened a folder, scanning the gathered faces before making the first announcement.

"Effective immediately, Blackwood Empire will be severing all business ties with the Daniels Group, Xavier Corporation, Park Industries, and Grove Energy."

A ripple of shock spread through the room. These were billion-dollar conglomerates, long-standing business partners. Cutting them off was a declaration—a shift in power.

One of the senior board members hesitated before speaking.

"Mr. Blackwood… these companies have been allies for decades. If we sever ties, it could cause instability in certain markets."

Chris leaned back in his chair, his gaze cold and unreadable.

"Let them burn."

Silence.

The weight of his words settled over the room like a storm cloud.

Chris continued, his tone unwavering.

"The Daniels, the Xaviers, Park, and Grove Energy have been leeching off Blackwood for years, thinking they could control the narrative. That ends today. From this moment forward, they are cut off. No contracts, no renewals, no discussions. Blackwood will not support parasites."

A few members exchanged nervous glances. Ethan, however, remained composed, nodding slightly in approval.

Chris turned to one of his key executives.

"Make the calls. Effective immediately, all business, investments, and joint ventures with these corporations are to be dissolved. Any existing deals—terminate them. If they attempt to retaliate, let them. Blackwood will not be shaken."

The executive swallowed hard before nodding.

"Understood, sir."

Chris's fingers drummed against the table, his expression impassive.

"Ethan, ensure that every major business under Blackwood's umbrella is informed. No one is to engage with them. If anyone within Blackwood is found trying to maintain connections with these companies, they'll be removed without hesitation."

Ethan smirked.

"Consider it done."

Chris stood up, buttoning his suit.

"Meeting adjourned."

As he walked out, the murmurs began. The world of business was about to change, and everyone would soon realize—Blackwood no longer played by anyone's rules but its own.