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Chris's POV – The Family Meeting
The private family hall deep within the Blackspire Palace was designed for moments like this—thick soundproof walls, obsidian pillars carved with the Blackwood crest, and only one entrance guarded by elite soldiers whose loyalty was forged by blood oaths.
Chris sat at the head of the long table. Beside him was Skylar, regal as ever. To his left, Christiana—Dictator of the Union—eyes sharp, posture straight, always calculating. Ethan, ever stoic, leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled. And then, walking in late but deliberately confident, Classic Blackwood—his son. The future.
Chris's gaze swept over them, then tapped his fingers once against the polished surface.
"This is not just a birthday," he began. "It's a global statement. Billions will be watching. So before we start sipping wine and making speeches—let's make something very clear: security must be tighter than it was during my coronation."
Christiana gave a nod, already expecting it. "I've restructured the palace security grid. Double biometric scans at all five gates. Airspace is restricted. No drones. No cameras that aren't under our control. And the Black Veil operatives are in place, dressed as servants."
"Good," Chris replied. "I don't want surprises. No assassin, no rogue state, no bitter exile dares make this their final moment."
He then turned his attention to Ethan.
"The guest list?"
Ethan slid a holo-tab down the table. "Ninety-seven confirmed. Every regional head, every economic titan, the Grand Chief of Aeria, the Techlord of Andros, and even the Ice Chancellor from the Northern Wastes. They all paid the one hundred million. Some even more."
Chris nodded slowly. "Let them in… but make it clear. They come to witness, not to bargain."
Then he looked at Christiana again, voice firmer now. "This ball will also be your stage. By the end of that night, I want the world to see their Dictator as more than a name in law. I want them to fear disappointing you. Understood?"
She met his gaze, unwavering. "Understood."
Then Chris leaned back, a brief silence passing before his voice dipped into something more personal.
"Now… let's talk about Classic."
Skylar shifted beside him, a soft smile creeping onto her lips.
"My son," Chris continued, looking at Classic now. "You've remained in the background. Watching. Learning. But that ends soon. The world knows of the Dictator… it's time they begin whispering about The Heir."
Classic straightened slightly. "You want me at the center?"
Chris's eyes narrowed. "I want you close. Visible. Dangerous. You're not a child anymore, Classic. You are the blood of Blackwood, and that means expectations. You'll have a role at the ball… and beyond."
Ethan added, "It's time the political world realizes you're not just the quiet son. You're the future ruler of the Union."
Classic didn't flinch. "Then give me the chance to prove it."
Christiana turned her head slightly, eyes softening just a bit. "You'll have it. But know this—once you enter this world, there's no stepping back. Power doesn't forgive innocence."
Chris smiled faintly, pride etched in his features. "Then let the games begin. Christiana, begin finalizing the security drills. Ethan, double-check every suitor that enters for the Dictator. Skylar… you and I will coordinate the visual message."
He looked once more at Classic.
"And you, son… prepare. Your name will echo."
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