Chapter 130: The Next Move

The atmosphere inside the White House Situation Room was tense. Not with fear—but with precision. Every move was calculated, every strategy analyzed, and every decision weighed with the force of a nation behind it.

Christopher Blackwood didn't just run a government. He commanded an empire.

The global map on the digital screen showed shifting alliances in real-time. Red markers for opposing forces. Blue for allies. Gray for the undecided.

Ethan stood at Chris's right, arms crossed. "We've set the board, but now it's time to make a play. The world is waiting for your next move, and everyone's watching."

Chris smirked. "Good. Let them wonder."

The Secretary of State cleared his throat. "Sir, we have three pressing issues: The European Union is uncertain about your stance, China is monitoring our economic policies, and Russia—well, they're waiting to see if you'll challenge them directly."

Chris leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on the desk.

"Europe will adapt. They always do. We give them just enough assurance to keep them from running, but not enough to make them comfortable." He turned to Ethan. "Set up a closed-door meeting with key EU leaders. No media, no leaks. I want them to know I hold the cards, not the other way around."

Ethan nodded, already sending messages through secure channels. "Done. What about China?"

Chris exhaled. "They expect us to chase them. We won't. Delay any economic talks for another two weeks. Let them feel the uncertainty."

The economic advisor hesitated. "That could raise tensions, sir."

Chris smirked. "Tension creates leverage. We give them nothing until they start playing by our rules."

The room was silent for a moment before Ethan chuckled. "You're making them sweat. I like it."

Chris turned to the Secretary of Defense. "And Russia?"

The man sighed. "They're watching. They want to know if you'll push them on energy markets or military presence."

Chris thought for a moment. Then, a slow smirk formed.

"Deploy a military exercise in the Arctic. Nothing aggressive. Just enough to remind them that we're watching, too."

The Secretary of Defense gave a knowing nod. "Understood."

Chris stood, adjusting his suit. The world was shifting, and he wasn't just reacting—he was orchestrating it.

"Set the meetings. Move the pieces. And let the world know—Christopher Blackwood doesn't follow. He leads."

Ethan grinned. "Then let's remind them who's in control."

And just like that, the next chapter of global power had begun.