Chapter 127: A New Order

The world wasn't just watching—it was holding its breath.

As Christopher Blackwood's administration took shape, foreign governments scrambled to understand the new landscape. Allies hesitated. Rivals tested the waters. Power players whispered behind closed doors.

But Chris wasn't waiting for them to adjust. He was dictating the pace.

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48 Hours Later – Private Meeting with Saudi Arabia

The Saudi royal delegation arrived at the White House in absolute secrecy. No press. No leaks. No distractions.

Inside the secure conference room, Chris sat at the head of the table, Ethan standing at his right. Across from them, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, flanked by his top advisors.

The air was thick with unspoken calculations. This wasn't a simple discussion—this was a power play.

The Crown Prince was the first to speak. "Mr. President, let's speak plainly. Your administration's stance on oil production will determine the nature of our partnership."

Chris tilted his head slightly, his gaze unreadable. "Partnership?" He smirked. "Let's not pretend, Your Highness. You're not here for partnership. You're here to secure your dominance in the market before someone else takes your place."

A flicker of amusement crossed the Prince's face. "And you, Mr. Blackwood? Are you here to support or to control?"

Chris leaned forward, his presence filling the room. "I'm here to make sure that when the world talks about power, they don't look to oil alone. They look to me."

Silence.

Then, the Prince chuckled. "You're bold, Mr. President. But boldness without strategy is reckless."

Ethan finally spoke, his voice smooth, measured. "Then you should be very worried—because we have both."

The Crown Prince studied them carefully. "And what do you propose?"

Chris smirked. "A realignment. Energy markets are shifting. Fossil fuels won't hold the world forever—but influence will. You don't need to fight for oil control. You need to secure your place in the next global order."

The Prince narrowed his eyes. "And what does that mean for Saudi Arabia?"

Chris exhaled. "It means you align with the Blackwood administration now, or you get left behind when the next wave of power takes over. You don't want to be a relic of the past, do you?"

The Prince held his gaze for a long moment. Then, slowly, he smiled.

"You are not like the others, Mr. Blackwood."

Chris smirked. "No. I'm not."

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Later That Night – The War Room

Ethan placed a folder on the desk, his expression unreadable.

"Saudi Arabia is in. They'll align under the condition that we back their future energy initiatives."

Chris nodded. "As expected. Make sure they understand—we back them only as long as it benefits us."

Ethan chuckled. "You're making it very clear to the world that no one controls you."

Chris exhaled, looking at the city lights from the window. "That's because they don't."

He turned back, eyes sharp. One alliance down. A dozen more moves to make.

"Who's next?"