Riyal stood up, scanning the room filled with top military minds and the president's most trusted advisors.
"The damage caused by Divine Drakebane has crushed our pride completely.
"In just ten minutes, two centuries of Autreynia's achievements were wiped out by his violent act.
"Given our usual response, we should waste no time and destroy the light-speed warship immediately!"
As his voice faded, the room fell into an uncomfortable silence.
Baulcor was the first to speak up. "You're right, Mr. Riyal. Let's launch a nuclear strike on the warship at once."
"No!" Rexha shot back. "That kind of rash decision will draw serious backlash from the global community."
Baulcor scoffed. "Autreynia has never bowed to anyone on Earth. And what does criticism do? We've faced judgment plenty of times before.
"In the end, people complain, but they move on. They'll get used to it again!"
Alan shook his head helplessly. "Baulcor, please be realistic. Autreynia isn't as powerful as Tanqueria anymore—maybe not even as strong as Criele.
"If we act without thinking, it won't be Divine Drakebane who takes us down—it'll be Tanqueria's weapons.
"And don't forget about Draconia. They're quiet now, but if things go south, they'll pounce without mercy.
"If that happens, every major force will join in, tearing what's left of Autreynia to pieces."
Bronson Vexmoor, the president who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "Let's stay calm.
"Since the beginning, Autreynia aimed to spread freedom, justice, and equality—to show the world that these ideals matter.
"We wanted to help every dreamer succeed and to make sure every free, honest person was respected for their efforts.
"We believed everyone should have their voices, their ideas, and their goals.
"But the real world didn't follow our hopes.
"As we tried to grow stronger, we were crushed by harsh reality and ended up choosing dominance to protect the interests of powerful groups. Their influence pushed us far from our original purpose, bringing us to where we are now.
"We've become controlling, forcing others to accept our way of thinking.
"In chasing profit, we lost our morals and secretly worked with violent political forces around the world—not to promote freedom or progress, but to take advantage of the poor.
"But this time, Divine Drakebane's involvement has shaken us awake.
"The leadership of Autreynia must take a hard look at our actions and start making changes. If we don't, even if Divine Drakebane lets us go, the people of the world will bring about our end.
"A political group that doesn't protect people's rights and freedom is no better than a group of criminals. We need to own up to our mistakes.
"Autreynia has always valued freedom and fair agreements.
"Ten minutes ago, we made a promise to Divine Drakebane not to harm him or his kingdom—this vow was made in front of the whole world.
"If we turn around now and kill him, it'll bring Autreynia to ruin.
"I know these words may upset many who hold power and influence. I'm not saying them to seem noble.
The fleet leaders asked for urgent orders from Tanqueria's top command.
They planned to capture the light-speed ship, along with the dragon-slaying dagger and the Golden Dragon pendant carried by Robin.
With those in their hands, Tanqueria could rise above Autreynia and take control of the world.
Vaden quickly sent the news to Tanqueria Palace.
The King of Tanqueria immediately called a video meeting with his top officials.
Everyone except Alexander agreed that the Panacea Fleet and the Black Ocean Fleet should take control of the light-speed warship under the excuse of a rescue mission.
If Robin was still alive, they believed he had to be eliminated.
Alexander firmly disagreed. "If we act out of greed again and make another mistake, the outcome could be worse than what happened in Autreynia."
After a short pause, the King of Tanqueria made a very thoughtful decision.
He gave orders for the Panacea and Black Ocean Fleets to stay away from the light-speed warship and leave Yaspian Ocean right away.
Tanqueria's naval forces quickly pulled out of the area.
Nations like Sakurania, Elaria, and Kangaroth also told their fleets not to attack the light-speed warship.
But Criele's carrier group, which was already in the Yaspian Ocean, got the green light to strike.
In an instant, all their missiles were locked on the light-speed warship, ready to target Divine Drakebane.
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