"So… have we reached an agreement?" asked the Fifth Elder, his eyes sweeping across the chamber, pausing on each of his fellow elders.
Though not everyone spoke, and the air remained thick with a lingering reluctance, the answer was clear. One by one, they all nodded—some slowly, others with quiet resolve. Even the First Elder gave his nod of approval. But then, he raised another question—one that had been building since the plan was first laid bare.
"Since this idea is yours, Fifth Elder," he began, his tone calm but focused, "surely you've thought about who we should approach with this information? You yourself said—and we all know—that many will want a share. A large share, of a sector that, while barren now, will soon surge back to life."
His gaze sharpened.
"Once the artifact completes its restoration cycle, the value of the Forbidden Zone won't diminish—it'll explode. So, which powers are you prepared to invite into this?"
