Lu Jun calmly watched the impassioned crowd before him, yet his heart was like a frozen lake, utterly still.
The three-year deadline hung over them like a sword.
Everything he had done—making his insights public, popularizing Battle Armor, directing resources—had merely been to strengthen their foundation and kindle the spark.
The true trial had yet to arrive.
What he wanted to pass on was not merely knowledge and equipment, but a flame of conviction: the belief to unite, resist, and survive in desperate circumstances.
The meeting continued for some time, with the details of each plan examined more thoroughly and responsibilities assigned.
At last, Xu Tiandi declared the meeting adjourned in an unquestionable tone, issuing another stern warning:
"All plans are to begin immediately. Every department must fulfill its duties. At this critical juncture, when the continent's survival is at stake, if anyone or any faction dares to pay lip service while defying orders, delay, withhold resources, or line their own pockets for personal gain... do not blame me, Xu Tiandi, for judging them guilty of treason. They will be executed without mercy!"
A chilling killing intent flashed alongside god-level pressure, sending shivers down everyone's spines and thoroughly extinguishing any petty schemes they might have harbored.
"We would not dare!"
"We shall obey the Speaker's orders!"
Everyone answered solemnly. After offering their respects, they departed the council chamber one after another.
Their steps were hurried, their faces grave yet urgent. Upon their shoulders now rested the burden of civilization's survival.
Lu Jun left the building symbolizing the Federation's highest authority alongside Di Yue and Wu Sidu.
Outside, dusk was drawing near. The afterglow of the setting sun coated the cold buildings in a warm golden sheen.
The slightly cool evening breeze dispersed the somewhat stifling air from within the hall.