Years Later

The world had changed. Under Ethan's rule, the Blackwood Empire had solidified its position as the most dominant force on the planet. The Blackwood Union controlled economies, dictated policies, and held the ultimate power over global affairs.

But within the heart of the empire, in the shadows where true power resided, Chris remained—watching. Judging. And when necessary, correcting.

The empire flourished. New technologies, new infrastructures, and new expansions spread across continents. The Blackwood currency had long since replaced the old world's economic system. Nations that had once resisted were now fully assimilated, their leaders mere figureheads beneath the might of the B.U.

And yet, beneath the surface, tensions simmered.

The people adored Ethan—he was their Supreme Ruler, the face of Blackwood. But whispers remained. Whispers of the man who had built it all, the one who still held power beyond comprehension.

The God of the Empire.

Chris had not interfered in Ethan's rule since the day he passed the torch. He had kept his word. But now, something was shifting. The balance of power—something was testing it.

The air in the grand Blackwood Hall was thick with tension as Ethan stood at the head of the council chamber, his eyes scanning the gathered rulers and enforcers. Beside him sat Christiana, still the Dictator of the Union, her expression unreadable as she observed the meeting in silence.

A new challenge was rising.

Something—or someone—was daring to defy the Blackwood Empire. And for the first time in years, Chris was considering stepping out of the shadows.

Because if Ethan could not handle what was coming…

Then the God of the Empire would.