Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng returns to the Semurian Continent, leaving Arius in charge of Crossbell.
• IBC President Dita Crois dies suddenly, and his daughter Mariabell inherits the position and sells IBC to Starlight Technology, increasing Starlight's influence in Crossbell.
• Fang Zheng introduces his "trophies" from the Sun Fortress to his group, including a green-haired girl who has been asleep for five hundred years.
• While shopping in Bose, a Dragon suddenly appears, causing chaos in the city.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng shows laziness in dealing with Crossbell's affairs but remains attentive to his group's needs.
• Little Black displays her mischievous side, planning to prank Fie with a revealing swimsuit.
• Estelle and her group (including Sherazard and a blonde idiot) are seen working together as Bracers.
• A green-haired girl is introduced, who is expected to wake up soon.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and influence shifts in Crossbell with Starlight Technology's acquisition of IBC.
• The mysterious origin and purpose of the green-haired girl and the Dragon.
• The impact of unexpected events on daily life, as seen with the sudden appearance of the Dragon.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng interacts with Estelle and her group, showing familiarity but no romantic interest.
• Little Black and Fang Zheng engage in their usual playful banter.
• Fang Zheng shows concern for his group's safety when the Dragon appears, instructing Little Black to take the others to safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A Dragon descends on Bose City, controlled by Reinhardt (alias Laurence), a former Intelligence Department captain.
• The Dragon causes destruction and chaos, but suddenly stops and becomes fearful of something.
• Dark clouds gather, and a colossal, black Dragon appears, easily defeating the first Dragon and disappearing.
• The city is left unharmed but shaken by the encounter. The Bracer Guild and Kingdom Army plan to search for the fallen Ancient Dragon.

Character Developments

• Estelle and her companions (Agashi, Sherazard, Olivier, Kain) are terrified by the appearance of the colossal Dragon, revealing their vulnerability and human nature.
• Reinhardt is revealed to be Ouroboros's Executor No. II, demonstrating his power and connection to the Society.

Significant Themes

• The power of fear and intimidation, demonstrated by the colossal Dragon's mere presence.
• The unknown and mythical, as the black Dragon defies human understanding and imagination.
• The Society's manipulation and control, shown through the Ancient Dragon's actions.

Character Interactions

• Estelle and her companions support each other through the ordeal, displaying camaraderie and shared trauma.
• Reinhardt's interaction with the black Dragon hints at a power hierarchy within the mythical creatures.
• The Bracer Guild and Kingdom Army coordinate their efforts to address the aftermath of the incident.

Key Plot Points and Events

• An Ancient Dragon's appearance in Liberl sends shockwaves and prompts investigations into its identity.
• Fang Zheng, after dealing with the Society's actions, travels to Crossbell for serious business.
• Fang Zheng offers to heal Shizuku's eyes and mentions Magic Eyes as an option, but Arius declines.
• Fang Zheng visits Chairman McDowell to inform him of his intention to run for a seat in the Crossbell Assembly and push for Crossbell's independence.
• Fang Zheng reveals that President Dita, Lawyer Ian, and Arius had a plan to declare Crossbell's independence by causing a crisis and then presenting themselves as saviors.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng shows interest in Crossbell's independence and is willing to run for office to achieve it.
• Arius is revealed to have been involved in a plan for Crossbell's independence, showing his discontent with the current situation.
• Ellie shows curiosity and concern about Crossbell's future and the plans of its influential figures.

Significant Themes

• Crossbell's independence and the desire for self-determination.
• The lack of dignity and rights for Crossbell citizens under the rule of the Empire and the Republic.
• The consequences of political manipulation and power struggles.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng interacts with Arius, offering to heal Shizuku's eyes and mentioning Magic Eyes as an option, showing his willingness to help.
• Fang Zheng visits Chairman McDowell to discuss his plans for Crossbell's independence, showing his determination and openness about his intentions.
• Ellie interacts with Fang Zheng and her grandfather, showing her curiosity and concern about the political situation in Crossbell.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng reveals his ambition to Speaker McDowell, stating he wants to make Crossbell an independent kingdom like Liberl.
• Fang Zheng criticizes Crossbell's lack of pride and spirit, comparing it to Liberl.
• Fang Zheng reveals Starlight Technology's control over Crossbell's economy and infrastructure, making his councilor position less important.
• Fang Zheng challenges Speaker McDowell's views on democracy and Crossbell's subjugation to the Empire and Republic.
• Fang Zheng invites Ellie to observe his plans, suggesting she might have a role in his scheme.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng: Shows ambition, strategic thinking, and a disregard for conventional politics. He's open about his plans and confident in his strength.
• Ellie: Realizes the gap between Crossbell and Liberl in terms of pride and spirit. She's invited to observe Fang Zheng's plans, indicating potential growth.
• Speaker McDowell: Struggles with Fang Zheng's proposals, grappling with the idea of Crossbell's independence and the potential consequences. He's worn down by the conversation.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: Fang Zheng emphasizes the importance of strength in politics, contrasting with McDowell's focus on diplomacy and preservation.
• Pride and Spirit: Ellie and Fang Zheng discuss the importance of national pride and spirit, comparing Crossbell and Liberl.
• Democracy vs. Dictatorship: Fang Zheng challenges McDowell's views on democracy, arguing that Crossbell's leaders have failed their citizens.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Speaker McDowell: Their conversation is a battle of wits, with Fang Zheng pushing McDowell to confront difficult truths about Crossbell's situation.
• Fang Zheng and Ellie: Fang Zheng invites Ellie to observe his plans, suggesting a potential mentorship or partnership. Ellie seems drawn to his confidence and ambition.
• Ellie and Speaker McDowell: Ellie questions her grandfather about Crossbell's situation, showing a growing awareness of her city's problems.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ellie meets Fang Zheng the next day, expressing her willingness to see his plans for Crossbell.
• Fang Zheng takes Ellie to Crossbell Communications, revealing that Starlight Technology owns shares in it, and explains Crossbell's unique financial system and its role in money laundering.
• Fang Zheng introduces Ellie to Arius, the Sword Saint of Wind, and arranges an exclusive interview with him at the press agency.
• During the interview, Arius reveals that the transport vehicle explosion three years ago and other incidents were not accidents but consequences of espionage warfare between the Empire and the Republic, suppressed by the Crossbell Council.

Character Developments

• Ellie: She shows curiosity and a willingness to understand Fang Zheng's perspective, questioning and learning about Crossbell's political and financial systems.
• Fang Zheng: He demonstrates his strategic thinking, revealing his plan to expose Crossbell's corruption and awaken its people's sense of crisis without resorting to violence or manipulation.
• Arius: He decides to speak out about the truth behind the incidents, showing courage and a desire for justice, despite the potential consequences.

Significant Themes

• Exposure of Truth: Fang Zheng and Arius aim to reveal the hidden truths behind Crossbell's incidents, challenging the suppression of information by the Crossbell Council and the Empire/Republic.
• Leadership and Inspiration: Fang Zheng believes that a leader like Arius can inspire others to stand up against injustice and corruption.
• Corruption and Power Struggles: The chapter highlights the corruption and power struggles within Crossbell's political and financial systems.

Character Interactions

• Ellie and Fang Zheng: Ellie questions and learns from Fang Zheng, showing respect for his insights despite her initial reservations.
• Fang Zheng and Arius: Fang Zheng respects Arius's strength and prestige, choosing him as a symbol to inspire Crossbell's citizens.
• Arius and the Female Reporter: Arius shares his personal story and the truth behind the incidents, showing vulnerability and determination.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ellie assists a female reporter from the Crossbell Times to investigate the past incident involving Arios's family.
• They discover that the incident was a result of a crossfire between a foreign agent (007) and terrorists, with the Crossbell Council suppressing the truth.
• The Crossbell Times publishes a report exposing the truth, sparking public outrage against the Crossbell Council.
• Protests escalate, with Starlight Technology employees joining in, further pressuring the Council.
• Meanwhile, in Liberl, a floating city appears, and orbal shutdowns occur, prompting the Queen to seek help from Starlight Technology.

Character Developments

• Ellie grows more politically aware and understands the power dynamics between the people and the government.
• Fang Zheng demonstrates his political acumen and manipulative skills, orchestrating events to pressure the Crossbell Council.
• The Crossbell Council members become increasingly desperate as they face public outrage and have no solution to offer.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the relationship between the government and its citizens.
• The consequences of deceiving and betraying the trust of the people.
• The struggle for autonomy and dignity in Crossbell.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng teaches Ellie about politics and power, using the current situation in Crossbell as a lesson.
• Ellie and the female reporter work together to investigate the past incident, leading to the exposure of the truth.
• The Crossbell Council members grapple with the public outrage and their inability to resolve the situation, causing friction among them.
• Fang Zheng and Little Black discuss the situation in Liberl, with Fang Zheng expressing his determination to deal with Ouroboros.

Key Plot Points and Events

• An aerial castle appears above Liberl Kingdom, accompanied by a large-scale orb-stopping phenomenon affecting the entire region.
• Ouroboros Society, led by its Jaegers, invades Grancel, the Royal Capital of Liberl, taking advantage of the orb-stopping.
• Little Black faces off against the Steel Maiden, Bell of Illusion, and the Sword Emperor at the city gates.
• Little Black uses powerful projection magic, blocking the Steel Maiden's strongest attack and retaliating with devastating strikes.
• The Steel Maiden, Bell of Illusion, and the Sword Emperor attempt to retreat but are trapped in a strange, weapon-filled landscape by Little Black.

Character Developments

• Little Black demonstrates immense power and confidence, using projection magic to hold her own against powerful opponents.
• The Steel Maiden shows concern for her comrades' safety and retreats when she realizes they can't defeat Little Black.
• The Bell of Illusion and the Sword Emperor display no initiative, following the Steel Maiden's orders.

Significant Themes

• Power and its responsible use (Little Black's immense power and her decision to capture or kill her enemies).
• The consequences of underestimating opponents (the Jaegers' failed invasion attempt).
• The struggle against overwhelming odds (the Steel Maiden's realization that they can't defeat Little Black).

Character Interactions

• Little Black taunts and provokes her opponents, trying to rile them up and gain an advantage.
• The Steel Maiden, Bell of Illusion, and the Sword Emperor interact minimally, with the Steel Maiden leading and the others following her orders.
• Little Black and the Steel Maiden engage in a battle of wits and strength, with Little Black gaining the upper hand.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Estelle and her companions rush to Grancel City to find it under attack by the Society.
• They discover that the city's defenses, led by Little Black, have repelled the initial attack, but the Royal Castle is under threat.
• The Society's airships are approaching, and the Blizzard engages them, destroying five with ease.
• The Society's Ark, a powerful warship, is approaching, and Little Black decides to confront it.

Character Developments

• Estelle's resolve and determination to protect Liberl and its people strengthen.
• Joshua's concern for Estelle and the Liberl Kingdom grows, showing his commitment to their cause.
• Little Black demonstrates her confidence and capability in commanding the Blizzard and facing the Society's threats.

Significant Themes

• The power of unity and teamwork in the face of adversity.
• The importance of technology and innovation in warfare, as seen in the Blizzard's capabilities.
• The resilience of the Liberl people and their determination to protect their kingdom.

Character Interactions

• Estelle and Joshua's bond deepens as they work together to protect Liberl.
• Little Black and Ling's sibling dynamic is shown, with Ling teasing Little Black about her failures.
• Joshua and Little Black's differing views on strategy are revealed, with Joshua advocating for retreat and Little Black for confrontation.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Blizzard reduces its engine output to one-quarter and waits for the Society's Ark to approach.
• The Ark attacks the Blizzard with its cannons and missiles, but the Blizzard's shield deflects all incoming fire.
• The Blizzard fires a single missile at the Ark, destroying it completely and leaving no wreckage.
• The Blizzard arrives above Sky City, and the option to destroy it is discussed.

Character Developments

• Little Black demonstrates a ruthless and decisive side, similar to Fang Zheng, in handling the Society's Ark.
• Colos struggles with the decision to destroy Sky City, showing responsibility and consideration for her country's heritage.
• Rufina Argent, a Knight of the Star Cup Order, provides a different perspective on the situation, suggesting caution and the need to witness the Society's demise.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between Starlight Technology and Liberl, with Little Black emphasizing that the final decision lies with the Liberl Royal Family.
• The tension between preserving ancient treasures and the necessity of action against the Society.
• The potential risks and rewards of direct confrontation versus strategic planning.

Character Interactions

• Little Black and Colos have a tense exchange over the decision to destroy Sky City.
• Joshua supports Little Black's suggestion to destroy the city, prioritizing safety and efficiency.
• Rufina Argent offers a different perspective, urging caution and the need to witness the Society's demise.
• Estelle expresses her reluctance to destroy the beautiful city, showing empathy for its cultural significance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The group decides to dock at the floating city to capture Ouroboros members for information.
• Colos, Estelle, and Joshua lead a ground assault, while Little Black, Illya, Tio, and Ling stay on the warship for support.
• Weissmann, the "Professor" behind the Liberl Kingdom's coup, is revealed to be the third pillar of Ouroboros, "Angel" Weissmann.
• Weissmann merges with the Ring of Brilliance, transforming into a powerful monster.
• Rufina attempts to hold off Weissmann but is defeated. The floating city starts to collapse due to Weissmann absorbing all its Orbal energy.
• Fang Zheng arrives and easily defeats Weissmann, then kicks him to Rufina for interrogation.
• The group decides to evacuate the floating city before it collapses.

Character Developments

• Little Black shows concern for Illya's relationship with Joshua, giving her a suggestive manga to "learn" from.
• Weissmann's true power and connection to the Church are revealed.
• Rufina's past with Weissmann is hinted at.
• Fang Zheng demonstrates his immense power and lack of patience with the Society's interference.

Significant Themes

• Power and its consequences (Weissmann's transformation, the floating city's collapse).
• Manipulation and control (Weissmann's suggestions, Fang Zheng's concern about interrogation).
• Interpersonal relationships (Little Black's advice to Illya, Colos' concern for Weissmann's fate).

Character Interactions

• Little Black and Illya: Little Black teases Illya with a suggestive manga, hinting at Illya's feelings for Joshua.
• Rufina and Weissmann: Rufina's past with Weissmann is revealed, and she attempts to hold him off.
• Fang Zheng and Weissmann: Fang Zheng easily defeats Weissmann, showing his immense power.
• Colos and Rufina: Colos objects to killing Weissmann, while Rufina offers to interrogate him for the Church.
• Everyone: The group decides to evacuate the floating city together before it collapses.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The floating city collapses into Lake Valerius.
• Fang Zheng interrogates Weissmann to learn about the Alliance Leader.
• Weissmann reveals that the Alliance Leader is the Goddess of Zero, Edith.
• Fang Zheng learns about the true origins of Ouroboros and the Seven Treasures.
• Fang Zheng gives the Treasure of the Sky to Rufina.
• Fang Zheng and Rufina travel to the Arteria Code State to meet with the Seven Stars Church authorities.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng: Shows no remorse for destroying the floating city and remains focused on finding the Alliance Leader. He is skeptical of Weissmann's claims and remains calm and collected throughout the interrogation.
• Rufina: Struggles with Weissmann's blasphemous claims but ultimately trusts Fang Zheng's judgment. She is surprised by Fang Zheng's casual attitude towards the Treasure of the Sky and his request to meet with the Church authorities.
• Weissmann: Reveals the true origins of Ouroboros and the Seven Treasures under Fang Zheng's interrogation. He remains defiant and mocking until Fang Zheng freezes him in time.

Significant Themes

• The power of the Seven Treasures and the consequences of humanity's greed.
• The true nature of the Seven Stars Church and its connection to the Goddess of Zero.
• The struggle between order and chaos, and the role of the Order Clan in maintaining order.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Weissmann: Fang Zheng interrogates Weissmann to learn about the Alliance Leader, showing no mercy despite Weissmann's defiance.
• Rufina and Fang Zheng: Rufina accompanies Fang Zheng to the Arteria Code State and acts as his guide and intermediary with the Church authorities. She is surprised by Fang Zheng's request to meet with the Church authorities but remains loyal to him.
• Rufina and Ein Selnart: Rufina reports to Ein Selnart, who praises her achievements and welcomes her and Fang Zheng to the Holy City.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng enters the Church of the Seven Stars, seeking an audience with the Goddess of Zero.
• The Goddess of Zero reveals her history and the fate of the Semurian Continent, explaining her current state and the existence of her Chaos-corrupted self, Ouroboros.
• Fang Zheng learns about the Seven Treasures and their connection to the Goddess of Zero and Ouroboros.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng: Shows curiosity and a willingness to understand the Goddess of Zero's situation. He also expresses concern for the Goddess of Zero's well-being.
• Goddess of Zero: Reveals her past actions and motivations, demonstrating her wisdom and selflessness in protecting her people and containing Chaos.

Significant Themes

• Protection and Sacrifice: The Goddess of Zero's actions highlight her desire to protect her people and the world from Chaos, even at the cost of her own physical form.
• Corruption and Madness: The fate of other Order Clan members after being corrupted by Chaos is explored, emphasizing the danger and unpredictability of Chaos.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Goddess of Zero: They engage in a candid conversation, with Fang Zheng asking questions and the Goddess of Zero providing detailed explanations about her past and the current situation.
• Rufina and the Old Law King: They remain mostly silent during the conversation, showing respect and awe towards the Goddess of Zero.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng meets with the Goddess of Zero and the Seven Stars Church, securing their support for Crossbell's independence.
• In Crossbell, the council members realize the city functions perfectly without them, as Starlight Technology has taken over most services.
• The Empire threatens to cut off commercial ties with Crossbell due to the ongoing situation.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng: He demonstrates his strategic thinking and influence, convincing the Goddess of Zero and the Seven Stars Church to support his plans. He also shows his understanding of civilization's evolution and the potential drawbacks of religion.
• Speaker McDowell: He acknowledges the council's arrogance and the consequences of their actions, accepting the reality that Crossbell can function without them.

Significant Themes

• The changing role of religion in society.
• The consequences of arrogance and shortsightedness in leadership.
• The potential dangers of relying too heavily on a single entity (Starlight Technology) for essential services.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and the Goddess of Zero: They discuss their plans for Crossbell's independence and the role of religion in civilization.
• Speaker McDowell and Ellie: They discuss the council's past decisions and the current situation in Crossbell, leading to McDowell's realization of their mistakes.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng returns to Crossbell and learns about the Empire's threats.
• He meets with Deputy Commander Sonia at Tanggram Gate to discuss Crossbell's independence and the impending war with the Republic and Empire.
• Rufina, a Knight of the Star Cup Knight Order, accompanies Fang Zheng and reveals that the Seven Stars Church supports Crossbell's independence but won't sign a suzerainty agreement.
• Fang Zheng presents a plan to withstand the combined assault of the Republic and Empire, with the Seven Stars Church intervening later.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng demonstrates his confidence and strategic thinking, willing to take risks for Crossbell's independence.
• Rufina shows unwavering respect and support for Fang Zheng, hinting at his high status within the Church.
• Ellie is initially nervous but gains confidence as she learns about the Seven Stars Church's support.
• Deputy Commander Sonia remains pragmatic and cautious, assessing the situation realistically.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering between Crossbell, the Republic, and the Empire.
• The influence of the Seven Stars Church in Semuria and its potential intervention in Crossbell's independence.
• The consequences of Crossbell's declaration of independence and the potential war that may follow.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Rufina: They work together, with Rufina showing deference to Fang Zheng, hinting at a deeper connection between them.
• Fang Zheng and Deputy Commander Sonia: They engage in a tense but respectful negotiation, with Sonia assessing Fang Zheng's plans critically.
• Ellie and Fang Zheng: Ellie is initially nervous but gains confidence as she learns about the Seven Stars Church's support, showing her trust in Fang Zheng.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fang Zheng and his group arrive at the Security Force's training grounds for a secret test.
• Fang Zheng reveals his new weapon: a bracelet that summons Powered Armor and equips the wearer with various firearms.
• The weapon is demonstrated on Sergeant Noel Shika, who transforms into a jet-black armored warrior and uses different firearms.
• Deputy Commander Sonia is impressed and arranges for the Commander's removal due to corruption.
• The Commander's removal leads to the exposure of many councilors' scandals, causing public outrage and their imprisonment.
• Crossbell's government becomes dysfunctional, but the populace remains unaware due to Starlight Technology's influence.
• The Starlight Tower completion ceremony and Western Semurian Trade Conference are announced, with the aim of declaring Crossbell's independence.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng: Shows his technological prowess with the Powered Armor and demonstrates his determination to declare Crossbell's independence.
• Sergeant Noel Shika: Transforms into a powerful warrior using the bracelet and demonstrates different weapon proficiencies.
• Deputy Commander Sonia: Becomes acting Commander after the original Commander's removal and is impressed by the Powered Armor's capabilities.

Significant Themes

• Power and Influence: Fang Zheng's technology gives him significant power and influence, allowing him to manipulate Crossbell's political landscape.
• Corruption and Justice: The exposure of the Commander and councilors' scandals highlights the theme of corruption and the pursuit of justice.
• Independence and Freedom: The impending declaration of Crossbell's independence explores the themes of self-determination and freedom.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Deputy Commander Sonia: They interact to demonstrate the Powered Armor's capabilities, leading to Sonia's support for Fang Zheng's plans.
• Fang Zheng and Sergeant Noel Shika: They work together to demonstrate the bracelet's functionality, with Noel serving as the test subject.
• Fang Zheng and the Crossbell Council: Fang Zheng's actions lead to the exposure of councilors' scandals, effectively paralyzing the council and paving the way for his plans.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fie, sitting in Harbor Park, spots a red-haired girl (Sherry Orlando) who she senses is a jaeger.
• Fie follows Sherry into the mountains, where they engage in a fierce battle.
• Fie uses her unique weapons and fighting style, while Sherry wields a chainsaw Greatsword.
• Fie's mentor, Sigmund (Crimson War Ghost), arrives to assist Sherry.
• Fie whistles, summoning thousands of Xenomorphs to attack Sherry and Sigmund.

Character Developments

• Fie demonstrates her combat skills, using her Daggers and Grenades effectively.
• Sherry shows her strength and adaptability, enjoying the battle and toying with Fie initially.
• Sigmund reveals his formidable presence and power, striking fear into Fie.

Significant Themes

• Hatred towards Jaegers: Fie's deep-seated animosity towards jaegers drives her actions.
• Selfish Desire: Fie's goal is to eliminate all mercenaries for her own sake, not for money or honor.
• Power and Strength: The characters showcase their power and combat skills, with Fie's summons adding to her strength.

Character Interactions

• Fie and Sherry have a tense, action-packed interaction, with Sherry initially underestimating Fie.
• Fie's interaction with Sigmund is brief but intense, revealing his formidable presence.
• Fie's relationship with her Xenomorphs is shown, as she commands them to attack Sherry and Sigmund.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Crimson Constellation, a Jaeger group, plans to assassinate Imperial representatives during the West Cersimir Trade Conference.
• Fie annihilates the Crimson Constellation's leader and 100 subordinates, while the remaining 200 members wait outside Crossbell.
• Fang Zheng decides to deal with the remaining Crimson Constellation members after the trade conference.
• Starlight Tower will be fully opened on the first day of the trade conference, revealing its true form to the public.
• Prince Oliviert of Erebonia is ordered to represent the Royal Family at the trade conference, causing him distress due to Crossbell's expected independence announcement.

Character Developments

• Fie demonstrates her combat skills and strategic thinking by luring the Crimson Constellation into the deep mountains and forests for battle.
• Chiya, the girl Fang Zheng rescued from the Sun Fortress, shows remarkable learning abilities and cooks professionally on her first attempt.
• Prince Oliviert grapples with the potential consequences of Crossbell's independence and the Empire's response.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between Crossbell, the Empire, and other nations.
• The consequences of Crossbell's independence and the Empire's reaction.
• The true nature and capabilities of Starlight Technology.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng and Fie discuss the Crimson Constellation and the upcoming trade conference.
• Fang Zheng and Chiya interact, with Chiya displaying affection towards Fang Zheng.
• Prince Oliviert and Princess Elfin discuss the West Cersimir Trade Conference and the potential implications of Crossbell's independence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The West Semurian Trade Conference begins in Crossbell, attended by high-ranking officials from Erebonia, Calvard, Liberl, and Remifilia.
• Fang Zheng, acting as the host, delivers the welcome speech and unveils Starlight Tower, marking the start of the conference.

Character Developments

• Towa is nervous about coordinating the conference but gains confidence with Fang Zheng's reassurance.
• Ellie is shocked to learn that Colos is the Crown Princess of Liberl.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering, as seen in Fang Zheng's open assertion of control over Crossbell.
• The unveiling of Starlight Tower symbolizes the city's new beginning and technological advancements.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng teases Towa about her nervousness and reassures her.
• Ellie expresses her shock and concern about Colos's identity to Fang Zheng and Towa.
• Fang Zheng reminds Ellie of her commitment to the cause and encourages her to continue.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The S7 Symposium on Inter-Regional Trade begins, with unexpected moves from the Empire's Chancellor, Osborne, and the Republic's President, Rocksmith, questioning Crossbell's autonomy due to its political corruption.
• Fang Zheng, leader of Starlight Technology, declares Crossbell's independence from the Empire and the Republic, dissolving the Crossbell Council and asserting Starlight's control.
• Fang Zheng challenges the Empire and Republic to a contest, with the first to reach Crossbell City allowed to annex it.
• Starlight Technology issues directives and policies, including a new constitution, a corporate-style promotion system for officials, and the abolition of tax tribute to the Empire and Republic.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng demonstrates strong will, confidence, and provocative behavior, pushing for Crossbell's independence and challenging the Empire and Republic.
• Chancellor Osborne and President Rocksmith show concern about Crossbell's political instability and corruption, leading to doubts about granting it autonomy.
• Princess Colotia of the Royal Family attempts to defend Crossbell but is silenced by Chancellor Osborne's criticism.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and the relationship between might and right.
• The flaws and criticisms of political systems, including democracy and aristocracy.
• The impact of new technology (television) on information dissemination and societal change.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng provokes and challenges Chancellor Osborne and President Rocksmith, leading to tension and a contest between their nations.
• Fang Zheng's speech challenges the political foundations of the Republic and Empire, sparking intense debates and reactions within those countries.
• Wuka, a Calvardian spy, watches Fang Zheng's speech and recognizes the potential impact of television on society and politics.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Both the Empire and the Republic deploy their strongest forces (5th Mechanized Division and 3rd Joint Army) to reach Crossbell first and gain control of the city.
• Fang Zheng reveals that he has deceived Commander Sonia about the Security Force's role in the upcoming war.
• Fang Zheng leads a group to the top of Starlight Tower, where he broadcasts a message to the citizens of Crossbell, assuring them of their protection.
• Fang Zheng demonstrates the true power of Starlight Technology by summoning a massive, otherworldly fleet of Warships, which he dispatches to ward off the approaching armies.

Character Developments

• Fang Zheng demonstrates his strategic prowess and confidence in Starlight Technology's capabilities, revealing his true intentions and power to the citizens and his allies.
• Commander Sonia is initially bewildered by Fang Zheng's deception but ultimately accepts his orders and shows loyalty to his cause.
• Arius, the Sword Saint of Wind, is awestruck by the power of the summoned fleet and pledges his allegiance to Fang Zheng, addressing him as "Lord."

Significant Themes

• The might of advanced technology and industry (represented by the massive Warships) is emphasized as a dominant force.
• The theme of deception and hidden power is explored through Fang Zheng's revelation to Commander Sonia.
• The protection and assurance of the citizens' safety is a central theme in Fang Zheng's broadcast message.

Character Interactions

• Fang Zheng interacts with Commander Sonia, revealing his true intentions and giving her new orders.
• Fang Zheng interacts with Arius, assigning him the task of maintaining public order within Crossbell City.
• The summoned fleet's leaders interact briefly with Fang Zheng, acknowledging his command and receiving their orders.