Chris Blackwood’s Command: "Choose One Now"
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The guests watched in suspense as Chris Blackwood, standing at the center of the grand ballroom, turned his gaze to his daughter. Christiana Blackwood, her poise unmatched, stood with a grace that only one raised in such power could. Yet, there was an undeniable weight in the air—a tension that made even the most seasoned of diplomats hold their breath.
Chris's voice broke the silence.
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Chris Blackwood: "Christiana, the time has come. Choose one now."
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The entire ballroom fell into a hush. Christiana, though prepared for this moment, felt the weight of her father's command pressing heavily on her. Each suitor stood before her, their eyes filled with anticipation. She had spent months observing, evaluating, and weighing her options. Now, the decision had been placed firmly in her hands.
She scanned the three men—Lord Victor Ashford, Duke Ferdinand Cole, and Baron Elias Montgomery. Each of them had their merits: Ashford's wealth, Cole's military might, and Montgomery's brilliance in innovation. But for Christiana, this decision was about more than just their assets; it was about something deeper, something that could secure the future of the Blackwood family.
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Christiana Blackwood (POV):
Christiana's mind raced as she gazed at her father. He expected her to act swiftly. His command was clear, and in that moment, she knew he would tolerate no hesitation. She could feel the weight of the empire resting on her shoulders. The future of the Blackwood Union was intertwined with this decision, and it would echo across generations.
She studied the suitors before her, each one standing tall and proud, as if they had already envisioned themselves in her place.
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Lord Victor Ashford, with his wealth and trading influence, seemed like a logical choice. His family's connections could expand the Blackwood Empire's economic power. But would it be enough to form a true alliance, or was he just another pawn in a game of money?
Then, Duke Ferdinand Cole, with his military prowess and unyielding strength. His family's army could bolster the Blackwood defenses, but his methods were known to be harsh. Could he truly be trusted to rule alongside her, or would his thirst for power consume everything in his path?
Finally, Baron Elias Montgomery—brilliant, intellectual, and full of potential. He could lead the empire into an age of technological advancement. His mind was sharp, and his vision of the future could align perfectly with the Blackwood legacy. But could he stand by her side as an equal? Could he understand the true demands of the empire, not just from a scholarly perspective but from a place of real power?
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Christiana Blackwood: "Father…" Her voice broke through the silence as she stepped forward, her decision final.
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Chris Blackwood: "Choose, Christiana. No more hesitation."
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With a steady breath, Christiana turned toward the suitors, her eyes locking on one. She knew what she had to do.
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Christiana Blackwood: "I choose… Baron Elias Montgomery."
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The room seemed to exhale collectively as her decision rang through the hall. The suitors exchanged glances, but none spoke a word. Christiana had made her choice, and the consequences of it would ripple through the Blackwood Empire for years to come.
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Classic's POV:
Classic stood in the crowd, his eyes fixed on the proceedings, though his mind wandered. The Blackwood family's influence was undeniable, and it was clear from the grand spectacle unfolding that Chris Blackwood held the reins tightly. Yet, Classic couldn't help but feel an unfamiliar sense of distance. This was a world of power, wealth, and decisions that rippled through every corner of the globe. It was a world that seemed so far removed from his own, yet one that he knew was now, in some way, part of his future.
His gaze shifted to Christiana. Her decision was made—Baron Elias Montgomery had won her favor. Classic couldn't help but wonder about the deeper layers of this decision. What would this mean for Christiana? For the empire? For him?
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He wasn't quite sure what role he would play in the grand scheme of things. His position was still uncertain, but one thing was clear—whether by choice or circumstance, Classic was now more deeply entangled with the Blackwood family than ever before.
He could only watch as the empire, the power, and the legacy of the Blackwood family continued to unfold before him. But as always, he would wait for the right moment to step forward and find his place in this intricate game.