The results of the Six Continents assembly are announced on the same day through official proclamations and copies of the resolution distributed across every region. Within hours, the contents spread to major cities and primary ports.
On the five continents other than Gaelvorn, public reaction is largely positive. Citizens gather in public squares to hear official readings delivered by their respective government representatives.
In Ilgnisar, an official reads the decision aloud in a firm voice. When he finishes, cheers erupt.
"This is decisive leadership!" a man shouts from the crowd.
"For the peace of the world!" another responds.
A woman adds, "At last, the rulers act without hesitation!"
A similar atmosphere unfolds in Zepharia. Many citizens believe that executing the world fugitive, should he surrender, reflects great responsibility.
"History will record our courage," a merchant says to his colleagues.
"And it will condemn the cowardice of those who refuse to act," another replies.
In Solcendria and the Northern Continent, the tone is nearly identical. The decision is viewed as a concrete effort to prevent a great war. Many believe firmness now will save more lives in the future.
However, a different atmosphere emerges in Gaelvorn.
Since the announcement is broadcast, heated discussions arise across the city—at markets, before administrative offices, and even near the palace gates.
"Our King refuses to send troops," a man says in disappointment.
"He defends the world fugitive," another replies.
"If all continents agree and only we refuse, that means we are the ones in the wrong!" a young man shouts.
The crowd begins to grow.
An elderly woman speaks anxiously. "If war truly occurs because of this decision, Gaelvorn will be blamed."
"Depose the King!" someone cries from the back.
The chant begins to repeat.
"Depose the King of Gaelvorn!"
In several parts of the city, small protests form. Not everyone agrees, yet the voices of disappointment grow louder. Many regard the King's decision as a sign of weakness. They believe that refusing to participate allows the threat to grow.
Inside the palace of Gaelvorn, the atmosphere is far calmer. Nevertheless, reports of the protests reach the King's office.
Krieger stands near the window, listening to a brief report from a guard. After the guard departs, the room falls silent.
"I have done everything within my power, my child," Krieger says quietly without turning.
Rose, standing not far from him, steps closer.
"I know," she replies. "That is why I am here with you. I am proud of you, Father."
Krieger turns and looks at his daughter for a moment. His face appears weary, yet resolute.
"I am proud to have a daughter, and that daughter is you," he says with a faint smile.
He straightens and walks away from the window.
"Yet we must support the one who is being made a scapegoat," he continues. "Otherwise, this world can no longer be saved or forgiven."
Rose nods.
"The people are angry because they are afraid," she says. "Fear drives them to seek someone to blame."
"And now I am that target," Krieger answers calmly.
He returns to his desk and sits down.
"If this decision is wrong, I will bear the consequences," he continues. "But if it is right, time will prove it."
---
Johan sits alone within the shadows, a newspaper open in his hands. He reads the reports describing the pride of five continents and the unrest in Gaelvorn.
Slowly, a wide smile spreads across his face.
"What will you do, Krieger?" he murmurs softly.
He folds the newspaper and rises from his chair.
"Huh, excellent," he continues. "Now we begin, Krieger."
---
"Look at this, my child. Besides us standing behind you, even the King of our continent supports you from the shadows," Charlotte says, handing the newspaper over.
I take it and begin to read. The King's official statement. He refuses to deploy troops. He does not approve of a pursuit that would end in open war.
A long breath escapes.
"Huft… the situation grows worse," I say. "Will a great war not occur once I step outside?"
Charlotte looks directly at me.
"The King of Gaelvorn has taken a great risk for you," she says. "His people are already beginning to lose faith in him. Yet he stands by his decision."
Silence follows. I know that. I never directly request his support, yet he chooses that path.
"That only burdens me further," I reply. "I do not wish for anyone to lose a throne or a life because of me."
Charlotte does not answer immediately.
"Lucifer, the Sun, once speaks indirectly to me," I say. "He mentions and worries about another figure who will descend upon this earth. And he searches for me, Doctor."
The atmosphere turns silent at once.
"For what reason?!" Nero asks, breaking the quiet.
A slow exhale follows.
"It is not certain," I answer. "What I know is that he seeks this crystal called Omni-Core."
I lift the crystal pendant hanging around my neck, resting against my chest.
"He desires absolute power," I continue. "Just like the mastermind behind the previous cruel government. Both are individuals who seek absolute authority. They will employ any method to obtain it."
"This is not solely about me," I say. "Omni-Core is not merely a crystal. It is the center of energy capable of igniting or halting a great war. Whoever controls it can alter the balance of the world."
Nero looks at me sharply.
"In that case," he says, "what will you do, Sir?"
"I will not surrender," I finally answer. "That would only grant them legitimacy to execute me and claim that the world is entirely at peace, while the true threat has not yet fully emerged."
"Is that you, my child?" a voice calls out.
Two soldiers stand between the veil building and us, where we sit beneath the large shaded tree.