Beijing, China – Private Diplomatic Summit
The air in the Great Hall of the People was thick with unspoken tension. No cameras. No press. No distractions. Just power, ambition, and two global titans facing off.
Christopher Blackwood sat across from President Wei Jian, China's leader, a man known for his patience and calculated moves. On either side, their top officials and strategists sat in silence, waiting.
President Wei finally spoke. "Mr. Blackwood, the world is watching our next move. Your recent military actions have created… concern."
Chris smirked. "Concern? Or curiosity?"
Wei's expression remained unreadable. "Fifty thousand troops at the Russian border. Twenty thousand reinforcing key territories. That is not curiosity—it is pressure."
Chris leaned forward slightly, locking eyes with him. "Pressure ensures movement. And movement ensures results."
Wei exhaled. "You think brute force is the answer?"
Chris chuckled. "No. I think leverage is. And right now, I have plenty of it."
Silence.
Then, Wei leaned back, studying him. "So tell me, Mr. Blackwood, what is it that you want?"
Chris didn't hesitate. "An agreement. One that benefits both of us—but on my terms."
Wei raised an eyebrow. "And if we refuse?"
Chris smirked. "Then you fall behind."
Wei's advisors exchanged glances. This wasn't a typical negotiation—this was a power play.
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The Deal on the Table
Chris slid a folder across the table. "Blackwood Industries controls a vast network of resources—technology, manufacturing, supply chains. Your economy thrives on trade. What I'm offering is access. Faster, stronger economic ties, but with conditions."
Wei remained silent as he skimmed the contents.
"We remove unnecessary trade restrictions," Chris continued. "We establish a new economic pact between our nations—one that benefits American businesses and strengthens your supply chain. In return, you reduce dependency on Russian oil and energy."
Wei's eyes flickered with intrigue. "You want to cut Russia out."
Chris didn't deny it. "Russia plays both sides. That makes them unreliable. You and I? We understand business."
Wei smirked. "And if I agree, what does Blackwood gain?"
Chris exhaled. "Stability. Influence. And a long-term economic advantage."
Silence.
Then, Wei chuckled. "You are bold, Mr. Blackwood."
Chris smirked. "Bold wins."
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Hours Later – Private Discussion
As the formal meeting ended, Chris and Wei spoke privately.
Wei studied him. "You remind me of a young emperor—one who does not wait for power, but takes it."
Chris smirked. "Power isn't given. It's claimed."
Wei nodded. "Very well, Mr. Blackwood. We have an understanding. But remember—China does not follow."
Chris extended his hand. "Neither do I."
They shook hands.
And just like that, the balance of global power shifted.