Everything around him was pitch-black, without so much as a glimmer of light.
Darkness could reflect the fear within a person's heart. In such a confined environment, even the strong-willed could not hold out for long.
Clap, clap, clap-
Just then, loud applause abruptly echoed through the dark isolation cell. Accompanied by the light, a tall, straight-backed man slowly entered through the door.
"'The Federation's great will needs you... swear your allegiance to the Federation...' What a passionate speech."
The light fell on Jonas's handsome, sharply defined face. Opposite him, a dispirited figure in prison clothes huddled in the shadows.
At Jonas's arrival, the man slowly raised his eyes, his lips trembling slightly.
"I-I've already done what you told me to. Could you release my sister now, as you promised?"
"There's no hurry. Miss Aisley's life is no different from before, except that she now has my people protecting her. Don't you think that's better, Mr. Duncan?"
Jonas savored the man's dejected expression, a mocking smile curling his lips.
"Jonas, you-!"
"Calm down. I never said I'd break my promise. Before that, though, I need to understand the whole situation." He continued at an unhurried pace, "Did Joseph George, the chairman of Santa Technologies, agree?"
Duncan took a deep breath. Knowing he had no choice now, he answered obediently, "Not yet, but that's only temporary. After tonight, the George Family in the Federation will pressure Joseph George. He'll have no choice but to submit to the Federation."
"Perfect. Santa Technologies isn't much good at anything else, but its factory production lines have very well-developed intelligent automation."
Jonas smiled.
Since you've betrayed the District 25 Alliance, I don't need to honor the terms I offered you anymore. Surely you won't mind if I borrow your production lines?
Long before the District