Chapter 506: Choice

Su Ming looked at the data of Lord Long Bai’s 3362 votes and said to Okins with some helplessness.

“Don’t be happy too soon. Although most of Royal Court Academy’s votes went to us, it still feels like a drop in the bucket.”

“Alas, it seems so.”

Okins’s smile froze when he heard Su Ming’s words, like a deflated ball.

At this moment, Dragon Dust looked at Lord Long Bai’s vote count, smiled, and looked at City Lord Faraon. It was time to end this.

When Faraon saw Dragon Dust looking at him, his expression changed, and then he slowly stood up with his hands on the armrests.

Swish!

Everyone in the conference hall turned to look at Faraon.

“Not good.”

Gakels’s face immediately turned very ugly when he saw Faraon stand up. If that guy cast all his votes for Dragon Dust, then it would truly be over.

Lord Long Bai’s cold eyes suddenly flashed with an unusual light.

Su Ming and the others’ hearts also tightened.

However, just as Faraon was about to speak…

Bang!

The door of the Dawn Council Hall was suddenly pushed open.

Su Ming and the others all turned their heads to look. It was the time of the general election, who was so bold as to burst in at this moment?

Mo Xiu walked in, dressed in dark gold combat armor, with an unparalleled aura.

“Isn’t that Mo Xiu?”

“How did he come back?”

“No idea!”

Many council members whispered among themselves.

Su Ming looked at Mo Xiu walking in, also very surprised. Wasn’t that guy in Donao Star Sea? How did he suddenly rush back?

Long Shadow and the others looked at Mo Xiu, their expressions becoming very solemn, vaguely having a bad premonition.

Under everyone’s gaze, Mo Xiu walked to the front of the council platform, looked at Lord Long Bai, and said with a smile.

“Sorry, I’m late.”

“No matter.”

Lord Long Bai replied calmly.

Then Mo Xiu turned to face everyone, raised his hand, and said solemnly.

“On behalf of Sky Dome City, I support Lord Long Bai!”

Upon hearing this, Dragon Dust’s old face twitched slightly, and he turned to look at Faraon.

The council members of Sky Dome City also looked at City Lord Faraon, all somewhat at a loss.

“No way, Mo Xiu actually supports Lord Long Bai?”

“What’s going on?”

“Actually, this is not surprising. I heard that Lord Long Bai and Mo Xiu knew each other a long time ago, and their relationship is very good! And it is said that Lord Long Bai’s father and Mo Xiu’s father were sworn brothers and died together in battle.”

“Their relationship is that good!”

“Definitely. There are even rumors that Mo Xiu is pursuing Lord Long Bai.”

“That’s normal too, after all, both are talented.”

Everyone also whispered.

At this moment, City Lord Faraon also sighed deeply and said helplessly.

“Sorry, Sky Dome City will still be run by the younger generation in the future, and I can only support my grandson.”

Swish!

With City Lord Faraon’s compromise, the personnel of Sky Dome City all cast their votes for Lord Long Bai.

Lord Long Bai’s vote count immediately soared.

Gakels and the others all showed excited expressions. This was truly great!

Su Ming was also very surprised. He didn’t expect Lord Long Bai to persuade Mo Xiu.

In fact, the letter Lord Long Bai wrote in the office that day was for Mo Xiu.

In an instant, Lord Long Bai’s vote count soared to 4451.

However, at this time, City Lord Rosa Gaia of Black Flame Star, District 5, and some council members suddenly defected and cast their votes for Dragon Dust.

Suddenly, Dragon Dust’s vote count rose to 4950.

Mo Xiu’s brows immediately furrowed, and Faraon also looked angrily at City Lord Rosa Gaia. He had just been secretly laughing at Gakels losing Cuilan Star’s votes, but it turned out he was also ambushed.

City Lord Rosa Gaia saw Faraon’s gaze, awkwardly coughed, and said.

“Sorry, I still think Dragon Dust is more suitable to be the Council Speaker.”

Mo Xiu saw Faraon about to flare up and quickly said.

“No matter, it’s supposed to be fair and just. You can vote for whoever you want.”

“Thank you, Young Master Mo Xiu, for your understanding.”

City Lord Rosa Gaia could only reply with a stiff upper lip.

At this moment, everyone’s gaze in the venue converged on City Lord Alicia of Rainy City. Now, only she had a large number of votes in her hand and hadn’t expressed her stance.

“Who do you think City Lord Alicia will vote for?”

“Don’t worry, she definitely won’t vote for Lord Long Bai. You know Lord Long Bai is the most unfriendly to Rainy City!”

“That’s true. Not to mention the heavy taxes imposed on Rainy City, when Tidal Star Sea was supported, Rainy City was extorted a large amount of supplies.”

Everyone whispered among themselves.

Gakels’s face also became increasingly ugly. He had thought that Sky Dome City’s support for Lord Long Bai could turn the tide. As a result, a large part of Sky Dome City’s people also defected.

At this moment, Dragon Dust confidently looked at City Lord Alicia. He believed that City Lord Alicia would definitely stand on his side, after all, it was impossible for Lord Long Bai to promise her such generous conditions.

At this time, City Lord Alicia stood up and said with a smile.

“It seems it’s my turn.”

“City Lord Alicia, may I ask who you support?”

Feilixien Minister coughed and asked.

“Actually, I really want to support Dragon Dust. But there’s no way, General Su Ming is too charming, he actually persuaded me, so I can only support Lord Long Bai.”

Alicia said with a charming expression and a frivolous tone.

As soon as these words came out, Lord Long Bai’s brows immediately furrowed, and he turned to look at Su Ming.

Gakels and the others also looked at Su Ming in shock.

Su Ming’s mouth twitched, feeling that something was off. But he still stood up and said politely.

“Thank you, Lord Alicia.”

“Hehe.”

Alicia also smiled without speaking, then cast her votes for Lord Long Bai.

Swish swish!

Lord Long Bai’s votes instantly soared, 5300, 5600, 5900…

“5900!”

Okins and the others shouted excitedly.

At this time, Lord Long Bai’s votes were still rising, 5930, 5940, 5950…

Everyone’s hearts were in their throats. As long as they exceeded 50%, which was 6000 votes, they would win.

Unfortunately, things did not go as planned. Just as the vote count reached 5957, it stopped. Dragon Dust’s votes rose in the opposite direction, soaring directly to 5332 votes!

Alicia immediately frowned and turned to look at her subordinates. She had clearly calculated it well, it should have definitely exceeded 6000 votes.

At this moment, she saw several council members lower their heads guiltily, and immediately understood what was going on. Her expression instantly turned cold.

“Oh no, just a little bit short!”

Okins slapped his thigh in annoyance.

“This is unavoidable. Dragon Dust’s methods are indeed remarkable.”

Su Ming said with a sigh.

“Indeed.”

Okins also didn’t have the nerve to blame others, after all, the votes they and Sky Dome City lost were not just a little bit.

At this moment, everyone present began to discuss.

“Almost exceeded 50%, so whose hands are the remaining votes in? Who else hasn’t voted?”

“Are you stupid? City Lord Kavanu of Di Yan Star, City Lord Tamkain of Steel Rock Star, City Lord Ronak of Mist Frost Star, City Lord Kevia of light iris star, they haven’t voted yet.”

“That’s true.”

“Hehe, it seems I have a slight advantage.”

Dragon Dust showed a brilliant smile, then turned to look at City Lord Kavanu and the others.

Swish!

City Lord Kavanu and the others all cast their votes for Dragon Dust.

Dragon Dust’s vote count immediately surged, directly soaring to 5972, then stopped, not exceeding 6000.

Dragon Dust was also stunned looking at this vote count, and turned to look at the four city lords, only to find that City Lord Kevia of light iris star had not voted.

Long Shadow and the others also looked at City Lord Kevia with gloomy faces and quickly asked.

“City Lord Kevia, why aren’t you voting?”

Gakels and the others also looked at City Lord Kevia with puzzled expressions. Wasn’t this guy on very good terms with Dragon Dust?

“Sorry, Lord Long Chen, although I really want to support you, how can a maternal grandfather not dote on his own granddaughter?”

City Lord Kevia of light iris star said something that shocked everyone immensely.

Dragon Dust was dumbfounded when he heard this.

Gakels and the others were also full of disbelief. City Lord Kevia of light iris star was actually Lord Long Bai’s maternal relative?

Su Ming turned to look at Vice City Lord Okens in surprise.

“Don’t look at me, I don’t know what’s going on either?”

Okins was also completely bewildered.

In fact, Lord Long Bai’s mother’s presence had always been very low. Everyone only knew that she was Long Ye’s classmate, and she seemed to be an orphan.

But in reality, Lord Long Bai’s mother was City Lord Kevia of light iris star’s illegitimate daughter. Few people knew about this, and later, Lord Long Bai’s mother even cut ties with City Lord Kevia.

At this time, City Lord Kevia of light iris star announced decisively.

“I vote for Lord Long Bai!”

Swish!

Lord Long Bai’s vote count immediately rose to 6028 votes!

“We won!”

Gakels and the others saw Lord Long Bai’s votes cross the line and stood up to applaud.

Clap clap!

Warm applause immediately broke out in the venue.

Dragon Dust’s appearance seemed to have aged several years in an instant, and a bitter expression appeared on his face. He had planned for so long, but he didn’t expect to fail at the last moment.

Long Shadow and Dragon Lan’s expressions were also not very good. They had fully supported Dragon Dust but still lost.

Of course, the most frantic ones now were not Dragon Dust and the others, but City Lord Rosa Gaia of Black Flame Star and others who had defected.

Their faces were as black as charcoal. Since Dragon Dust didn’t take office, they were in big trouble. Although many people did it to repay the Long family’s kindness, their future days would definitely not be easy.

At this moment, Feilixien Minister raised his hand, signaling everyone to be quiet.

The bustling council hall gradually quieted down, and everyone’s eyes converged on Feilixien Minister.

“I now officially announce that Lord Long Bai has won the Federal General Election with 6028 votes. Tomorrow, the Federation will hold a grand succession ceremony, and Lord Long Bai will officially become the acting Council Speaker of the Federation, leading the Federation towards a bright future!”

Feilixien Minister announced solemnly.

“Long live Lord Long Bai!”

Everyone in the council hall stood up and cheered excitedly.

Lord Long Bai looked at the cheering crowd, calmly bowed to everyone, and said.

“Thank you for your support!”

“I declare the Federal Government General Election officially concluded!”

Feilixien Minister said.

Click!

The soldiers at the door of the council hall then opened the door of the Dawn Council Hall.

Lord Long Bai turned and walked towards the right-side door of the council platform.

Seeing this, Su Ming stood up and walked towards the right-side door from the side.

At this moment, he saw Mo Xiu hurriedly catch up and also walk into the right-side door.

Su Ming also followed, entering a long corridor.

He saw Mo Xiu hurrying towards Lord Long Bai and shouting to her.

“Lord Long Bai!”

Lord Long Bai heard the shout, then stopped and turned to look at Mo Xiu who had caught up.

Mo Xiu looked at Lord Long Bai, seeming to want to speak but hesitant, not knowing what to say.

“Thank you!”

At this moment, Lord Long Bai said thank you calmly, then turned and left directly.

Mo Xiu sighed as he watched Lord Long Bai’s departing back.

Su Ming watched this scene, said nothing, and then turned to leave.

Soon, with Lord Long Bai’s victory…

Lord Long Bai’s virtual image was projected on the outer wall of the Government Administrative Building.

At this moment, all virtual advertising spaces in Starlight City, all TV channels, and the headlines of Star Cluster Forum, all changed to Lord Long Bai’s promotional images.

Reporters and citizens waiting saw the sudden change and cheered.

“Lord Long Bai!”

“Dear citizens, the results of the Federal General Election are out. Lord Long Bai has won and successfully taken office as the acting Council Speaker. We will continue to report for you.”

Reporters excitedly reported the latest situation.

—

The next morning.

The main streets of the entire Starlight City were refreshed and clean.

Colorful streamers were hung all over the Federal Government building, and a grand platform was set up in the central open area.

Many council members, officials, and generals attended in formal attire, chatting and laughing.

In the outermost area, thousands of reporters gathered with professional equipment, ready to film the inauguration ceremony.

In fact, due to the Federal Government’s current predicament and the extremely tight schedule, the ceremony preparations were somewhat rushed.

However, even so, the logistics personnel did their best to arrange it with the highest specifications.

At this moment, Dragon Dust and the other two stood not far away; the number of council members and generals surrounding them was significantly fewer compared to the election, and some council members who were relatively close to Dragon Dust even deliberately kept their distance.

Although it’s a cliché, it has always been true since ancient times: the victor is king, and the loser is a bandit!

No matter what, Lord Long Bai successfully ascended to power.

At this moment, Su Ming, wearing a general’s uniform with a chest full of dazzling medals, walked over from a distance.

“General Su Ming!”

“You’re here!”

One by one, council members saw Su Ming and eagerly went up to him, surrounding him completely.

“Hm!”

Su Ming looked at the unfamiliar faces before him and nodded in response.

Although everyone used to be quite enthusiastic towards him, it was never this exaggerated; it truly felt like one person’s success elevated all their associates.

At this moment, City Lord Gakels, Vice City Lord Okens, and others also entered the venue, and many people similarly went up to exchange pleasantries.

“Lord City Lord Gakels, you look so energetic today, you seem much younger.”

“Haha, really?”

“Absolutely!”

Long Shadow, from a distance, saw so many people surrounding Su Ming and Gakels, and said to Dragon Dust self-deprecatingly.

“Third Brother, these guys are really fair-weather friends; Lord Long Bai hasn’t even taken office yet, and they’re already so eager to suck up.”

“Forget it, let them be; there’s nothing to say about accepting a loss after a gamble!”

Although Dragon Dust felt incredibly stifled, he knew that the die was cast, and nothing he said would change anything.

On the other side, Su Mulong and Berudo were also chatting and laughing.

“Old Su, you said you weren’t hogging the glory? Good thing we had a trick up our sleeves and voted with you at the end.”

“Right, otherwise you would have killed us.”

“Damn it, is this my fault then? I’ll treat both of you specifically another day to make amends!”

Su Mulong was also caught between laughter and tears.

At this moment, Berudo saw Su Ming, who was surrounded by people, and said enviously.

“Old Su, your great-grandson is truly becoming more and more formidable.”

“Indeed! We’re truly envious.”

Farsad also chimed in.

“Yes, this kid truly has ability! I wonder what heights he’ll reach in the future.”

Su Mulong looked at Su Ming, who was conversing with many council members, and replied with great emotion.

At this moment, Feilixien Minister walked to the very front, cleared his throat, and said.

“Everyone, please quiet down!”

The noisy scene immediately fell silent; everyone stopped talking and looked towards Feilixien.

“The succession ceremony is about to begin; please take your designated positions!”

Feilixien said to everyone.

Upon hearing this, everyone began moving towards their designated positions.

Su Ming, seeing the people around him disperse, let out a sigh of relief and walked towards the front right.

All personnel with council member status stood on the left side, military officers stood on the right side, and a spacious area was left open in the middle.

“Su Ming, over here!”

Feilong waved at Su Ming.

Su Ming quickly walked to Feilong’s side and stood, lowering his voice to ask.

“Where is Lord Long Bai?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t seen her since she won yesterday. But the inauguration ceremony is about to start, so Lord Long Bai should be here soon.”

Feilong checked the time and said.

“Hm.”

Su Ming nodded slightly in response.

Federal Government Administrative Building.

In a clean and tidy room, Lord Long Bai, dressed in a purple Council Speaker’s robe, sat quietly in front of a dressing table.

Cloud Soft stood behind Lord Long Bai, gently combing her purple long hair with a wooden comb.

Lord Long Bai looked at herself in the dressing mirror, her cold eyes flickering, and her thoughts involuntarily returned to last night.

Inside the office.

Lord Long Bai stood with her hands behind her back by the window, gazing at the scenery outside.

Creak!

The door was pushed open, and Dragon Dust walked in expressionlessly.

At this moment, Lord Long Bai slowly turned around, looked at Dragon Dust, and said coldly.

“Dragon Dust, you lost! Is there anything else you want to say?”

“I know, although you won and became the acting Council Speaker of the Federal Government. But with my current power and strength, it might not be that easy for you to touch us.”

“I never thought of touching you. You should be clearer than anyone about the Federal Government’s current predicament.”

“Of course I’m clear. If it weren’t for my full cooperation, the Federal Government wouldn’t be able to hold on at all.”

“Since you’re clear, why are you so resistant?”

Lord Long Bai gazed at Dragon Dust and asked.

“You want to hear the real reason?”

Dragon Dust looked at Lord Long Bai and asked.

“Hm.”

Lord Long Bai responded in a deep voice.

“Alright, then I’ll tell you. The reason I contend with you is not to question your ability, nor is it that I must be this Council Speaker. Rather, it’s that I cannot idly watch the Long family’s power flow outwards. You can call me pedantic, old-fashioned, or feudal, I don’t care. Rather than let the Long family’s power flow outwards and be destroyed in my hands, I would rather the Federal Government be breached, everyone wander or perish. All I care about is the Long family!”

Dragon Dust spoke to Lord Long Bai without reservation.

Lord Long Bai fell silent after hearing Dragon Dust’s words.

Dragon Dust was not in a hurry, merely watching Lord Long Bai quietly.

After a long while, Lord Long Bai gazed at Dragon Dust and spoke coldly.

“Then what do you want in order to fully cooperate with me?”

“It’s simple. Follow the Long family’s rules. There’s no having your cake and eating it too in this world. If you want power, you can’t have affection. If you want affection, you can’t have power!”

Dragon Dust replied coldly.

In fact, although Dragon Dust’s words were very subtle, they had already made it clear.

If Lord Long Bai wanted to gain their full support, she could not marry and had to stay in the Long family her entire life.

This way, when Lord Long Bai died, the power would still flow back to the Long family.

The reason he was so harsh on Lord Long Bai was also very simple.

If Lord Long Bai were to marry, the power would inevitably flow to her husband’s family.

By then, the Long family would truly exist in name only.

“Lord Long Bai.”

At this moment, a soft call pulled Lord Long Bai back from her memories.

Lord Long Bai regained her composure and spoke indifferently.

“What is it?”

“It’s already combed, do you think it’s alright?”

Cloud Soft asked softly.

“Hm.”

Lord Long Bai glanced at herself in the mirror and replied indifferently.

—

Inside the Federal Government.

Su Ming and others waited quietly. At this moment, General Kabunofa walked over, hunched over, carrying a pitch-black long sword.

Upon seeing him, Su Ming and Feilong quickly greeted him respectfully.

“Sir.”

“Oh, there’s no need to be so formal. I’m already half in the grave.”

Cabuno Fa replied very kindly.

“Hehe.”

Su Ming and Feilong responded somewhat awkwardly.

Cabuno Fa then walked to stand in front of the two, then closed his eyes to rest.

Su Ming lowered his voice and curiously asked Feilong.

“Feilong, General Kabunofa has such a good temper, why is Gabres so hot-tempered?”

“He has a good temper? That’s because everyone who provoked him has been chopped up.”

Feilong explained to Su Ming with a rather colorful expression.

At this moment, Cabuno Fa seemed to have heard Feilong’s words, opened his eyes, and glanced at him sideways.

Feilong’s body immediately trembled, and he quickly shut his mouth.

Su Ming also quickly closed his mouth.

Dong ~

The dull sound of the bell rang again, but compared to the previous bell, this one was very long and continuous.

The scene immediately fell silent.

City Lord Gakels walked to the very front of the two rows of people with a big smile.

At this moment, Lord Long Bai, dressed in a sweeping purple starlight Council Speaker’s robe, with light purple hair cascading over her shoulders, adorned with an exquisite phoenix hairpin, a Starscar Tear necklace around her fair neck, and white lace gloves on her hands, walked over with solemn dignity.

Gakels suppressed his excitement and stepped forward, bowing to Lord Long Bai and raising his left arm.

Lord Long Bai placed her hand on Gakels’ arm, and with his support, she walked step by step towards the grand platform.

Along the way, everyone bowed in respect.

Soon, Lord Long Bai, accompanied by Gakels, ascended the platform.

Gakels respectfully retreated to the side.

Lord Long Bai slowly turned around and looked at the many council members and generals present, as well as the countless citizens watching the live broadcast.

Feilixien took a deep breath and solemnly announced.

“I declare the succession ceremony to begin.”

Accompanied by solemn and dignified music, Cloud Soft walked up carrying a tray. On the tray lay an ancient ceremonial robe and a copy of the Federal Constitution.

Feilixien reached for the ancient ceremonial robe and personally draped it over Lord Long Bai, symbolizing her ascension to the position of Council Speaker. Immediately after, he presented the Federal Constitution, holding it with both hands.

Lord Long Bai solemnly accepted the Constitution.

The Federal Government is founded on the Constitution, the Council Speaker’s power is granted by the Constitution, and at the same time, the Council Speaker governs the Federal Government according to the Constitution.

Feilixien Minister bowed deeply to Lord Long Bai and loudly declared.

“Ceremony complete! I announce that Lord Long Bai has officially assumed the position of acting Council Speaker!”

Clap clap!

Su Ming and others applauded enthusiastically.

Whoosh whoosh!

Instantly, countless fireworks soared into the sky.

Rumble!

Countless fireworks bloomed, resounding throughout Starlight City.

Countless reporters excitedly pressed their shutters, and countless flashlights lit up, recording the historic moment.

Lord Long Bai raised her hand, signaling everyone to quiet down. The applause gradually subsided, and all eyes and cameras turned towards her.

At this moment, everyone’s hearts were very tense; often, the birth of a new Council Speaker brings about great changes.

At this moment, Lord Long Bai spoke with a solemn expression.

“Fellow citizens of the Federal Government, I am honored to serve as the Council Speaker of the Federal Government. I will do everything in my power to lead the Federal Government out of its predicament and restore its former glory!”

Clap clap!

Su Ming and others, after hearing Lord Long Bai’s declaration, once again applauded enthusiastically.

Lord Long Bai raised her hand, signaling everyone to quiet down, and spoke coldly.

“Thank you for your support. I now officially declare that the Federal Government fears no enemy, be it Apocalypse Divine Kingdom, Dark Star Empire, or alien races! For the prosperity and continuation of humanity, the Federal Government will absolutely not back down. We will fight to the death against all enemies!”

“Fight to the death!”

Feilong and others, along with countless citizens watching the live broadcast, also shouted excitedly.

Su Ming watched this scene, feeling a surge of passion as well.

“Now, I will announce the latest policies.”

Lord Long Bai said in a deep voice.

As soon as these words were uttered, everyone present, including Faraon and others, felt their hearts jump into their throats.

“First policy: The Federal Government will completely lift the weapon ban, allowing qualified weapon manufacturers to produce weapons without restriction!”

“Second policy: Implement high-income taxation!”

“Third policy: Strengthen the reserve forces!”

“Fourth policy: Control the prices of basic necessities to ensure stable livelihoods!”

Su Ming and others listened to the series of policies issued by Lord Long Bai, their expressions all very serious.

This was entering a state of full combat readiness.

Soon, Lord Long Bai finished announcing all the policies. At this moment, her gaze fell on Dragon Dust, and she spoke coldly.

“Dragon Dust!”

Dragon Dust, seeing himself called out, walked out of the crowd with a calm expression.

Many council members whispered among themselves.

“Lord Long Chen was called out individually.”

“This doesn’t feel good!”

“Nonsense, although it’s a fair and just competition, since ancient times, what good ending has a loser ever had?”

“That makes sense, I feel like Lord Long Chen is going to have bad luck.”

“At the very least, he’s going to be cut down a peg!”

At this moment, Dragon Dust raised his head and looked directly at Lord Long Bai.

Lord Long Bai gazed at Dragon Dust and said coldly.

“I now officially announce that City Lord Gakels, due to his advanced age and long tenure presiding over the Federal Council, is not as robust as before. His resignation from the position of City Lord of Starlight City is hereby approved, and Dragon Dust is now appointed as the City Lord of Starlight City!”

Su Ming and others were stunned upon hearing Lord Long Bai’s words and turned their heads to look at Gakels.

Instead of showing dissatisfaction, Gakels revealed a slight smile, indicating that this had been discussed and agreed upon long ago.

Although Dragon White had won the election, she didn’t have much time left.

She had to integrate the Federal Government as quickly as possible, and appeasing the defeated Lord Long Chen was crucial.

Therefore, Dragon White offered the position of City Lord of Starlight City to Lord Long Chen, to show her sincerity.

Lord Long Chen saluted Dragon White with a serious expression.

“Thank you, Council Speaker!”

Clap! Clap!

Everyone present erupted in enthusiastic applause.

City Lord Rosa Gaia of Black Flame Star and others were even more excited; Lord Long Chen’s appointment as City Lord of Starlight City meant that Dragon White wouldn’t settle old scores.

Su Ming watched this scene and sincerely praised Dragon White, saying she had done very well.

The Federal Government truly needed to unite now, otherwise, it would truly be doomed.

Dragon White raised her hand again, signaling everyone to quiet down.

The bustling scene gradually subsided, and Dragon White announced in a deep voice.

“I formally announce that Lord Long Chen’s Dragon Mark Legion will be incorporated into the Federal Military Department as the Fourteenth Legion, Long Shadow’s Dark Legion will be incorporated into the Federal Military Department as the Fifteenth Legion, and Dragon Lan’s Heavenly Wave Legion will be incorporated into the Federal Military Department as the Sixteenth Legion!”

These three legions were actually direct forces of the Long family, and their combat power was very strong. Now, Dragon White wanted to bring them all into the battle.

“Yes!”

Lord Long Chen and the other two responded.

“Very good. The ceremony concludes here. Everyone, return to your duties.”

After Dragon White finished her announcement, she hurriedly turned and left.

Actually, it wasn’t that Dragon White didn’t want to celebrate longer, but that they were running out of time. The Mechanical Clan and the Qilami Clan could attack at any moment.

At this moment, Su Ming looked at Dragon White’s departing back and sighed slightly. He felt that after Dragon White became Council Speaker, the pressure on her had become even heavier.

Buzz~!

Just then, Su Ming’s wristband vibrated. He subconsciously looked down.

“Come to Dawn Hall Two immediately for a meeting!”

After seeing the message, Su Ming turned his head to Feilong and asked.

“Old Fei, did you receive the message?”

“I did. Let’s go!”

Feilong quickly said to Su Ming.

“Okay!”

Su Ming and Feilong immediately rushed to Dawn Hall Two.

At this moment, they noticed that Lord Long Chen, Gakels, and others were also heading towards the Administrative Building.

Not long after.

Lord Long Chen, Dragon Lan, Long Shadow, Gakels, Alicia, Faraon, Mo Xiu, General Kabunofa, Feilong, and Su Ming all gathered in Dawn Hall Two.

At this time, Dragon White sat at the head of the conference table and said coldly.

“Everyone, please sit!”

Su Ming and the others all took their seats.

“I apologize for calling you here, but our current situation doesn’t allow for slowness. We must seize every second.”

Dragon White spoke simply to everyone.

“Understood!”

Lord Long Chen and the others nodded in response.

“We have made it clear that we are unwilling to hand over that item. I believe the Mechanical Clan, Qilami, as well as Dark Star and Apocalypse, will soon take action.”

Dragon White said in a deep voice.

At this moment, Dragon Lan frowned and said.

“Council President Long Bai, it’s not that I’m boosting others’ morale and diminishing our own. If they all swarm us, it will be difficult for us to resist with our current strength.”

“I know.”

Dragon White replied coldly.

At this moment, Lord Long Chen pondered for a long time before speaking.

“I can find a way to stall the Apocalypse Divine Kingdom and the Dark Star Empire, making them unwilling to deal with us for a short period.”

“That’s treating the symptoms, not the root cause. Our enemies have never been Dark Star and Apocalypse. The ones who can truly threaten us are the leader of the Mechanical Clan and the leader of the Qilami Clan. These two guys are ambitious, and extremely ruthless and dangerous. They are the most troublesome.”

Dragon White said pointedly.

“So what do we do now?”

Lord Long Chen and the others suddenly felt unprecedented pressure.

“There’s no other way now. We can only abandon the Three Great Forbidden Zones, withdraw all troops, and use the three defense lines of Black Flame Star, Cuilan Star, and Nether Moon Star as shields, switching from offense to defense!”

Dragon White said to everyone.

Gakels, Faraon, Lord Long Chen, and others were all shocked when they heard Dragon White’s words.

“Are you serious? Abandon the Three Great Forbidden Zones? We sacrificed countless lives to painstakingly conquer them!”

“Once we abandon the Three Great Forbidden Zones, the Federal Government will lose all its resource points!”

“I know, but there’s no other way now. Think about it carefully. Once the Qilami and Mechanical Clan make a move, the troops in the Three Great Forbidden Zones will become their targets! They might all be wiped out, and then we’ll truly be finished.”

Dragon White calmly analyzed.

“Even if you’re right, aren’t we committing slow suicide by abandoning the Three Great Forbidden Zones? Without continuous resource income, how can we maintain such a vast Federal Government?”

Faraon warned seriously.

“This is only a temporary abandonment. When the time is right, we will naturally take them back!”

Dragon White said to Faraon.

“What about Donao Star Sea, Guangying Star Sea, and Tidal Star Sea?”

Alicia then looked at Dragon White and asked.

“Those who can migrate stars can migrate into the Federal Government. The rest cannot be helped. The future battlefield is very likely to erupt in these neutral star seas.”

Dragon White said very rationally.

Su Ming and the others fell silent upon hearing this.

They knew Dragon White was right, but their hearts were bleeding. This action was tantamount to cutting off an arm to survive.

However, if the troops from the Three Great Forbidden Zones and external areas were truly recalled.

The Federal Government’s defensive forces would reach an unprecedented level of strength. At that point, the entire Federal Government would truly become a turtle shell, and no matter who wanted to attack the Federal Government, they would have to weigh the consequences.

At this moment, Faraon said irritably.

“Alright, let’s do it!”

“I have no objection either.”

Alicia didn’t say much either. After all, Dragon White would suffer the most losses by withdrawing the external forces, considering that Abyss of Fallen and Wormhole Spacetime were being exploited by Starlight City.

Dragon White turned to look at Lord Long Chen, Gakels, and the others.

“We have no objection either.”

Lord Long Chen and the others also agreed.

“Good, then the great retreat plan is set. But listen carefully, this retreat must be kept secret. It absolutely cannot be leaked. Not only do we need to withdraw troops, but we also need to transport all supplies back.”

Dragon White instructed everyone.

“Understood!”

Faraon and the others naturally understood the implications.

Once everyone outside knew that the Federal Government was retreating, things would be troublesome.

“Alright, the meeting ends here. Everyone, please attend to your duties and handle your affairs. We don’t have much time left.”

Dragon White said to Faraon and the others.

“Okay!”

Faraon and the others got up and left.

Soon, only Su Ming and Dragon White were left in the conference room.

Seeing that Su Ming hadn’t left, Dragon White asked.

“Su Ming, do you have something else?”

“No, I’m leaving.”

Su Ming showed a hint of hesitation, then shook his head and turned to leave.

Dragon White watched Su Ming’s departing back, becoming even more silent.

Dusk.

Inside the Federal Government office.

Dragon White sat at her desk, approving documents, with stacks of files piled beside her.

Thump thump~

At this moment, a knock on the door sounded.

“Come in!”

Dragon White didn’t look up, speaking coldly.

Creak!

The door opened.

Su Ming walked in and stood silently before Dragon White.

Seeing no movement after a while, Dragon White stopped writing and looked up at Su Ming, saying.

“Su Ming, if you have something to say, just say it directly. Don’t hesitate.”

“Alas, actually, I’ve always had an idea, but I don’t know if it’s appropriate to say it.”

Su Ming sighed and said to Dragon White.

“Speak!”

Dragon White replied very seriously.

“We could completely take advantage of our strength being intact to negotiate with the Mechanical Clan, then hand over that item to the Mechanical Clan in exchange for breathing room and some benefits. Finally, we could leak the news to Qilami, Dark Star, and Apocalypse! Those three parties definitely wouldn’t allow that item to fall into the Mechanical Clan’s hands. Let them fight each other. Once we’re ready, we can then make a move to reclaim the item!”

Su Ming suggested to Dragon White.

Although this method was very dangerous, it was the optimal solution. Because it could resolve the Federal Government’s predicament and buy time, while also disintegrating the opponents’ alliance and offensive, and severely damaging all four parties.

“No, I know what you’re saying is right, but that item absolutely cannot be handed over. No one would agree. And if there’s any operational error, everything will be over. Now I have no choice but to fight to the bitter end!”

Dragon White shook her head and said to Su Ming.

“Understood. In that case, I’ll go crazy with you until the end.”

Actually, Su Ming knew that no one would give up, but he still wanted to say it, just in case they listened, it could save too many lives.

At this moment, Dragon White fell silent after hearing Su Ming’s words.

Thump thump!

At this moment, a knock on the door sounded again.

Dragon White came back to her senses and said.

“Come in!”

The door opened again, and Lord Long Chen walked in. He was a little surprised to see Su Ming there.

“Lord Long Chen.”

Su Ming greeted politely.

“Hmm.”

Lord Long Chen nodded slightly.

At this moment, Dragon White spoke.

“Lord Long Chen, do you have something?”

Lord Long Chen didn’t answer, but instead glanced at Su Ming.

“It’s fine. Su Ming isn’t an outsider. Just speak directly.”

Dragon White said calmly.

Lord Long Chen’s expression changed for a moment as he said.

“Lord Long Bai, I was just reviewing the handover documents and suddenly remembered something.”

Su Ming looked at Lord Long Chen with some surprise upon hearing his words.

“Lord Long Chen, please speak!”

Dragon White replied politely.

“Since you plan to burn your bridges and fight them to the death, you must be fully prepared, especially regarding resources!”

“You mean?”

“What I mean is, you must send someone to Saint Jocks to retrieve the batch of rare metal resources that the Federal Government pledged at the Saint Jocks Morris Interstellar Bank.”

Lord Long Chen said very seriously.

“That will likely be difficult to get. Those people in Saint Jocks are more cunning than ghosts. They know better than anyone that the Federal Government is currently under siege and could be destroyed at any time. How could they be willing to hand it over? And according to the original pledge agreement, we also violated it, which means we are not in the right.”

Dragon White said with a solemn expression.

“That’s right! We can’t use force or antagonize Saint Jocks. We must make them willingly hand it over.”

Su Ming also reminded.

The Federal Government was already in a difficult situation. If they antagonized Saint Jocks at this time, it would simply be adding fuel to the fire, and then they would truly be finished.

“I know, but if we can get it back, it can make up for the shortage of Eternal Metal, which is crucial.”

Lord Long Chen said in a deep voice.

Dragon White pondered for a few seconds, then said.

“I understand this matter. Allow me to consider it.”

“Okay!”

Lord Long Chen nodded and withdrew.