Beneath the enormous dome, countless cameras pointed toward the center. The abrupt scene made the reporters keenly sense something unusual, as though something major was about to happen.
Pete, the governor of New York State, stood beside Homelander with complete composure.
He did not look at Homelander. Instead, he swept his gaze over the audience, paused briefly on Soldier Boy's face, and straightened his suit.
Soldier Boy also looked at Pete on the stage, his brow furrowing slightly.
What was he trying to pull at a time like this?
Ashley immediately stood up. "Governor, this meeting is about military cooperation, not personal disputes."
Her heart pounded, fine beads of sweat instantly forming on her forehead. She had a terrible feeling.
Pete ignored her and waved a hand. The large screen lit up.
"A few months ago, an outstanding entrepreneur contacted me. His name was Carl."
A photograph of a man immediately appeared on the screen.
"He had no superpowers. He was merely the head of a vast conglomerate, as well as an ordinary businessman who hoped to make the city a better place."
Many people in the audience began murmuring, turning the solemn voting session into a noisy gathering.
Pete continued, "Mr. Carl planned to develop a plot of land that had originally fallen within Vought International's plans."
Homelander's gaze sharpened slightly, his expression growing increasingly grave. He had a feeling that what Pete did next would be extremely bad for him.
But where were they? The Congressional Hall in Washington!
Even with all his godlike powers, Homelander could not cover a governor's mouth in full view of everyone.
Pete paused briefly and said, "Ultimately, after considering various factors, the government chose Mr. Carl's proposal because it better served the public interest."
At this point, he pressed a hand over