Chapter 529: The Dictator’s Press Conference

Live from the Blackwood Imperial Palace

The grand hall was packed with journalists from every major news network. Cameras flashed, recording what was about to become one of the most defining press conferences in modern history.

At the podium stood Christiana Blackwood, the Dictator of the Blackwood Empire and now, the Dictator of the Blackwood Union (B.U.). Clad in a sharp black suit, her icy gaze scanned the room, daring anyone to challenge her authority.

The room fell silent as she spoke.

Opening Statement

"From today onward, the world is no longer divided by outdated political systems. The Blackwood Union has replaced the failed world order. The Blackwood Crown (BWC) is now the official and only currency within the Union, backed by the full wealth and stability of the Blackwood Empire."

"This is not a negotiation. This is not a debate. This is a reality. Nations that align with us will thrive. Those that resist will face the inevitable consequences of their choices."

She let the silence hang, then gestured toward the press.

"You may begin."

The first journalist, a senior correspondent from CNN, stood.

Question 1 – Economic Backlash

"Madam Dictator, major economic powers like the European Union and the United States—outside of the Blackwood-controlled territories—are calling this an act of economic warfare. What is your response?"

Christiana's lips curled into a smirk.

"Warfare? No. We are simply offering the world a better alternative. If their economies collapse, it is not because of us—it is because their systems were weak to begin with. If they refuse to adapt, they will be left behind. That is not our concern."

Another journalist, from BBC, spoke next.

Question 2 – Political Resistance

"Several democratic nations have openly refused to recognize the Blackwood Union's authority. Some leaders are calling for a coalition against what they describe as 'imperial overreach.' What is the Blackwood Empire's stance on this?"

Christiana's expression turned cold.

"Democracy is an illusion—one that has failed time and time again. If these so-called leaders believe they can stop what has already begun, they are welcome to try. But let me make this clear—no coalition, no resistance, no protest will change the fact that the Blackwood Union is the new world order."

A journalist from Al Jazeera quickly followed up.

Question 3 – Human Rights & Free Speech

"Critics say that the Blackwood Union will strip nations of their sovereignty and suppress freedoms. How do you respond to concerns that this is a global dictatorship?"

Christiana's expression didn't change.

"Freedom is meaningless without security. The Blackwood Union does not recognize 'sovereignty' for nations that cannot sustain themselves. If a country cannot govern effectively, we will do it for them. As for free speech—words do not feed people, words do not build nations. Action does. And the Blackwood Union is built on action."

Murmurs spread through the room. The weight of her words was undeniable.

A New York Times journalist cautiously raised his hand.

Question 4 – The Role of Chris Blackwood

"Where does Emperor Chris Blackwood fit into all this? Does he still hold ultimate authority, or are you operating independently?"

A flicker of amusement crossed Christiana's face.

"His Imperial Majesty has already reshaped the world once. Now, he is watching as we prove ourselves worthy of the empire he has built. The Blackwood Union is not a single ruler's project—it is a system, and I am its enforcer. There will be no power struggle. There is only one authority, and it is absolute."

A journalist from Reuters pressed forward.

Question 5 – Financial Incentives

"You announced that every nation joining the Blackwood Union will receive $20 billion in economic aid. Some leaders fear this is a trap, a way to force dependence. How do you justify this?"

Christiana's smirk returned.

"Fear? They should feel honored. The aid is not a trap—it is an opportunity. A down payment for their future. If they are too afraid to accept it, that is their failure, not ours. The world runs on power and wealth, and we are offering both."

Closing Statement

She leaned slightly forward, letting her final words settle deep into the minds of every listener.

"The Blackwood Union is not here to negotiate. We are here to lead. We do not ask for permission. We do not seek approval. Nations have two choices—align with us, or be left behind."

"This is the new world order. Adapt, or disappear."

With that, she turned and walked off the stage, leaving the world shaken.