Chapter 1456: Secret Institute
"The details of the meeting are covered by a Confidentiality Agreement involving the soul, signed by all relevant personnel. I cannot disclose them.
"But I can tell you this.
"Plans for reform had begun long before you entered the city. All the corps commanders, some High-ranking Councilors, the royal family, and the church have been secretly providing support.
"The various 'concealments' currently in place are actually protective measures. They will gradually be revealed when necessary.
"The sponsors and the Steam Knight Order will play a decisive role in future developments.
"No matter what results the Great Expedition achieves, we must leave ourselves a way out.
"Furthermore, the overall situation has not stabilized simply because the Great Expedition concluded perfectly. Nicholas, you also know that the existing Human Factions are divided into three. Our Holy City is merely one of them.
"The other two possess strength and foundations not much inferior to ours.
"The Great Expedition was an independent plan of our Holy City, one that did not receive permission from Dragon City or the Royal Capital... Especially the Royal Capital, located in the Americas and focused on technological development—it holds ideals completely opposed to our pursuit of freedom.
"You should understand that clearly, shouldn't you?"
Han Dong nodded. "Mm... I have dealt with a Senior Engineer from the Royal Capital.
"The Royal Capital adamantly denies the existence of 'aberrant demons,' while Dragon City has always remained neutral."
At this, Sally wore a disdainful expression.
In her view, humanity's survival was entirely due to the 'mercy' of certain higher beings. Otherwise, a single High-tier Existence could easily destroy the city-states humanity had spent centuries building.
"This is the issue we must face next.
"News of the Great Expedition will soon spread throughout the world.
"The Royal Capital