Months Later – The Weight of Power
Ethan Carter's POV
The meeting hall was silent—a rare thing.
Chris Blackwood, His Majesty, sat at the head of the grand table, fingers interlocked, his piercing gaze scanning everyone present. The tension was suffocating.
We all knew what was coming.
The Blackwood Union had reached absolute control. Every nation had either aligned with us or ceased to function independently. Our currency, B.C., was 100 times stronger than any other, making global economies irrelevant. The virus had wiped out millions, but our exclusive cure ensured only our citizens thrived.
And now, Chris was about to reshape the world once again.
"Ethan," he called, his voice sharp. "Give me the final report."
I stood, unfolding the document.
"As of this morning:"
198 nations are now under the Blackwood Union.
34 former democracies have officially dissolved their constitutions, submitting to Blackwood rule.
Global GDP is now dictated by Blackwood-owned corporations.
Blackwood Forces (BUF) patrol all major cities worldwide.
"And the resistances?" Chris asked, expression unreadable.
I cleared my throat. "Crushed. Any remaining factions have either surrendered or been... neutralized."
A nod of approval.
But then, Classic spoke up.
"And what of those still trying to buy their way in?"
Chris smirked. "Their entry price has just increased."
The room stiffened.
Classic had previously raised the entry fee to $20 billion per nation. It had already crippled those desperate to join.
"How much now?" I dared to ask.
Chris leaned forward, his next words sending a shockwave through the hall.
"50 billion. And if they hesitate, double it."
---
Christiana Blackwood's POV
This was exactly why Father ruled without equal.
His mind worked ten steps ahead, securing power where others would hesitate. But for the first time, I felt a shift.
Classic had grown more vocal.
More... defiant.
"This is unsustainable," he muttered beside me. "Even an empire like ours has a breaking point."
I turned sharply. "Careful, brother. That sounds dangerously close to doubt."
Classic scoffed. "Or realism."
I narrowed my eyes. Was he challenging Father?
Before I could respond, Chris stood.
"Enough. The decision is final. Christiana, enforce the new laws. Ethan, ensure the funds are transferred immediately."
"And Classic?" I asked.
Chris turned to him, expression unreadable.
"Watch and learn, son. If you still doubt me after this... then prove me wrong."
---
World Announcement – Blackwood News Network (BNN)
BREAKING NEWS
The Blackwood Union has issued a new decree:
1. All non-member nations must pay $50 billion for entry or risk economic collapse.
2. All global corporations must convert to Blackwood ownership or be permanently dissolved.
3. The Blackwood Cure remains exclusive, with zero negotiations on its distribution.
Reactions flood in:
The United Nations has formally disbanded.
Independent leaders plead for mercy.
Citizens riot, demanding their governments comply.
As always, the world waits for His Majesty's next move.
Because in the Blackwood Empire...
There is no compromise.
---
Classic Blackwood's POV
This couldn't last forever.
And if Father didn't see it...
I would make sure he did.
---