At the same time, in the grand residence at No. 13 Elai Road in Eternal City, the mansion people called "Mao Manor," its owner, Mr. Mao Yuanzuo, who was about to celebrate his ninetieth birthday, was also holding a meeting.
The Commonwealth's most senior and oldest political elder spoke with certainty. "There's no need to doubt it. President Keith Nishita hasn't been subjected to any mind control. He's mentally sound and physically healthy, and can be held responsible for all his decisions. He remains our legitimate head of state, our wartime leader as we continue the struggle. He deserves our loyalty, at all times."
Mao Yuanzuo's tone was gentle and his smile kindly, but his stance was unyielding.
He surveyed the holographic projections gathered around him, then rested his gaze on the middle-aged man closest to him. "Russ, you should understand. It's precisely at a critical moment like this that we need to stand by President Nishita, help him, support him, and show the universe our loyalty and unity."
The middle-aged man called "Russ" was naturally Vice President Yero of the Blue Star Commonwealth, and leader of the Co-Prosperity Party. He was currently aboard a ship on his way back, having just entered the Terra Star Sector. Earth was still one planet away.
Unlike President Nishita, who had fled back in a sorry state, Vice President Yero had the air of someone returning with a full load. His visit to the Sade Fortress had coincided with what later generations would call the First Battle of Sade.
Of course, it was impossible to deny that he had been inside the fortress when the fighting was at its fiercest. According to the media, he had remained composed throughout, even chatting and laughing with General Sylvester.
Considering that Vice President Yero had been