Chapter 343: The Empire Moves Forward

Chris's POV

The conference room was silent, filled with only the most powerful figures in the nation. Generals, intelligence heads, economic strategists—each of them seated at the long, polished table, waiting for their ruler to speak.

Chris sat at the head of the table, fingers tapping lightly against the armrest of his chair. His gaze was unreadable, but the weight of his presence was undeniable.

Ethan stood beside him, arms crossed, while Cole stood further back, scanning the room like a predator watching for weakness.

Chris finally leaned forward. "The lockdown is lifted."

There was a collective inhale from the room.

"Sir—" one of the officials began.

Chris raised a hand. "Control has been reestablished. Any remaining resistance has been neutralized. The economy will resume, flights will reopen, schools will function again."

He let the words sink in before continuing, voice sharp.

"However, this is no longer the United States you once knew."

A map appeared on the holographic display in front of them. The Blackwood crest had replaced the American eagle.

"This nation is now an empire. And from this moment forward, every industry, every institution, and every citizen will function under one law—mine."

He paused.

"Those who cannot accept this will not be given a second warning."

Silence.

Then, one by one, the officials nodded in obedience.

Ethan smirked. Cole exhaled slowly.

Chris stood, adjusting his cufflinks. "Prepare the official announcement. The Blackwood Empire is open for business."

And just like that, the new world order had begun.