"There's no one more suitable than you."
"In terms of martial prowess, aside from Fu Hua with her unfathomable abilities, nobody else in this world can hold their own against you for even two moves."
"As for intellect, Otto's recognition and praise speak volumes."
"Regarding prestige, as Anti-Entropy's Chief Officer, the uncrowned dictator, the fiery calamity of Heavens' Fall, a bold schemer, and a cold-blooded executioner... The reverence you command from both friend and foe speaks for itself, does it not?"
"And when it comes to political acumen, frankly speaking, over these years, I've been preoccupied with battles at the front lines. Eins could only contribute a fraction, while the other executives lacked the foresight to grasp the bigger picture. Nearly every pivotal policy shaping the world today, along with the intricate maneuvering behind them, originated from your hands. Who could argue that you're undeserving?"
"In terms of contributions, we all know that the true originator of Ideology: A Guide was you; the genuine transformation of Anti-Entropy has been guided by your hand from its inception until now; and the reconciliation and comprehensive development between our two great organizations remain critically dependent on your efforts. Even humanity's current technological advancements and military buildup were primarily shaped under your direction... I truly cannot think of anyone more deserving than you."
"Zeke, this isn't about shirking responsibility or acting impulsively. From a pragmatic standpoint, for the grand plan of our future, there is no one better suited than you!"
Welt's words, filled with admiration and gratitude, flowed steadily.
Countless individuals within Anti-Entropy had declared their willingness to face fire and flood for Welt. However, Welt believed that if Zeke ever needed it, he would willingly die for him, because Zeke was indeed worth it.
No one else was more fitting to lead humanity, nor more qualified and capable of guiding, regulating, and dominating the entire civilization.
As Welt articulated his reasoning, both Einstein's and Hera's eyes showed signs of emotion.
Immersed in this tumultuous period of history, they had never meticulously examined Zeke's actions.
As Welt stated, the vibrant and hopeful vision of civilization unfolding before them was truly painted by Zeke's hand.
Even among these influential figures, not just Einstein and Hera but even Welt, who had been actively driving change, seemed more akin to mere components of the paint palette.
Each one held significant weight, but without any single individual, the painting could still continue. As long as Zeke stood firm, it would progress unabated.
"Sigh..."
Hera let out a sigh and leaned back languidly in her chair, expressing with genuine emotion:
"Zeke, this time, I completely agree with Welt. Yes, anyone else aspiring for such a position would make me scoff—on what grounds? But you alone, if you were to refuse, I'd consider it humanity's loss rather than your failing."
Einstein stroked his chin, nodding silently to convey his stance.
Hera sighed again, her voice tinged with sorrow. "Zeke, you know my aspiration. But once I achieve it, I must leave behind a world that is at least acceptable for her... I hope it will be your world. If you agree, I will do everything in my power to support you, as this would extend my own desire and perhaps... serve as a bit of redemption."
While Welt and Einstein were somewhat puzzled by Hera's cryptic words, Zeke understood her intent clearly.
Emerging from his thoughts, Zeke looked up and met Welt's expectant gaze, filled with sincerity, saw Einstein's reassuring smile, and noticed the encouraging expression on Hera's face.
But these sentiments alone could not sway him. What truly influenced Zeke's decision was reason.
Yes, there was no one more suitable than him.
Moreover, he and Hera shared many similarities. With anyone else ascending to such a position, Zeke would scoff—You? Giving me orders? Keep dreaming!
Even if Welt were to ascend to that position, Zeke would at most provide occasional support when needed. Most of the time, he'd undoubtedly view Emperor Welt with benevolence—a ruler who couldn't command genuine respect from even Zeke and Hera would struggle to achieve significant accomplishments.
"You know I dislike complications," Zeke said stiffly.
Welt chuckled bitterly, scratching his face. "Yes, indeed. My apologies for burdening you continuously. However, this heavy responsibility can only be entrusted to you."
Zeke uncrossed his fingers, leaned forward, and his golden eyes, radiating an imposing aura even through the 3D holographic projection, spoke firmly in a cold tone: "But since it's the best choice, let's proceed. I've never been an emperor before, and I am a stubborn person. So, if there are any actions in the future that displease you—remember, as long as I sit on this throne, my will must prevail completely.
"I'll lead you against Honkai.
"Together, we'll forge a new world.
"Any further objections?"
Zeke had always been assertive and domineering. Even when confronted with unforeseen emotions, he would take charge, responding in his own way to Kiana and the others.
And now was no different.
As Emperor, this dominance would extend across the entire civilization until Honkai was ultimately defeated, and the new world reached a state that satisfied him completely. Until then, nothing could obstruct his resolve.
Perhaps even in the original world, he possessed this latent potential; or perhaps his experiences in this realm unleashed it from within. But these details didn't matter anymore. What mattered was that upon earnestly accepting this responsibility, Zeke needed to embody such unwavering authority.
The attendees fell silent for a moment.
Then, Welt adjusted his glasses, smiling gently as he said,
"Of course, Zeke... I mean, Your Majesty."
Hera grinned, clapping enthusiastically, her voice tinged with excitement:
"As I've always maintained, there's no one more suited than you, my... Your Majesty!"
Einstein rarely displayed such gentle and captivating smiles. "Haven't I always been serving you? From this moment on, as before, Your Majesty Zeke."
The golden hue gradually faded from Zeke's eyes. He leaned back, casually waving his hand.
"Then it's settled. Welt, Hera, Dr. Ein, dismantle those chaotic nations and establish a unified regime... Let's give ourselves half a year. For those who refuse to comply, there's no harm in being forceful; conflicts will arise inevitably. Being too lenient only breeds false hope among opportunists. After six months, we'll proclaim our nation and ascend the throne."
"Yes," came two immediate affirmations.
Welt and Einstein swiftly embraced their new roles, tasks they were already highly skilled at—destroying corrupt powers and spreading Anti-Entropy's rule through radiation.
Hera scratched her chin and asked, "I'm more than willing to assist, but what about the Herrscher of a Thousand People issue? Should I handle that as well?"
"No need."
"And you... Ahem, esteemed Your Majesty, may I inquire about your insights?"
"...It's not a genuine imperial system; there's no need for excessive formalities. For conversations and titles, just stick to the usual norms most of the time. In any case, we'll leave handling the Herrscher of a Thousand People to our team of Herrschers," Zeke stated calmly.
This response elicited simultaneous expressions of hesitation from the trio.
It didn't sound entirely reliable. Could it be too risky?
Zeke shook his head and said, "Even you doubt their capabilities, don't you? Human-side Herrschers are strategic forces, not delicate flowers grown in greenhouses. After shifting my perspective, I realized... I may have been overprotective. They need true challenges and growth, and the Herrscher of a Thousand People serves as an excellent whetstone. While there isn't significant risk to their lives, the peculiar abilities and cunning schemes they face will provide valuable learning experiences."
His words prompted involuntary nods of agreement.
Indeed, among the current human-side Herrschers, aside from Welt who was experienced, the other girls were still quite inexperienced.
When the Herrscher of a Thousand People was first revealed, Zeke, Welt, and Einstein instinctively felt compelled to protect the girls rather than deploy these theoretical strategic units against her.
Honkai could erupt at any moment, yet protecting such formidable strategic forces instead of utilizing them seemed absurd, didn't it?
At the same time, precisely because their Herrschers were shielded and hadn't achieved significant public accomplishments, they faced easy scrutiny. If each Herrscher girl had contributed as diligently as Welt, the voices of doubt would undoubtedly have been far quieter—at least enough for Anti-Entropy to firmly stand on higher ground, silencing critics with indisputable arguments.
Zeke's decision made sense, so the discussion concluded.
"Dr. Ein, I need access to a channel through the Sea of Quanta. Hera, I require Su's coordinates."
"Understood."
"It's possible, but what do you intend to do? Are you planning to enter the quantum realm?"
Einstein and Hera responded sequentially.
Zeke nodded affirmatively.
"After establishing contact with Su three years ago, we sent him technologies for treatment and extending lifespan. Upon my request, he continued observing parallel worlds to gather more information about Honkai. Now, I wish to leverage his capabilities... In any case, having never been an emperor before, I need time for contemplation and experimentation. Additionally, since this power governs the entire civilization, it's crucial that I have a proper conversation with a formidable force who has long wandered the quantum realm."
"Understood. I trust your abilities; please return swiftly. As for matters in the real world... as long as I am here, they won't spiral out of control."
"Don't be overconfident or complacent; remain vigilant and safeguard this world diligently. Also, avoid harboring any ulterior motives. Remember, both your life and the Life Equation, which holds greater importance than even your own existence, are within my grasp," Zeke leaned forward, calmly stating as he looked at Hera.
Hera's smile briefly froze, followed by a soft sigh.
"My dear friend, after knowing each other for so many years, do you still not trust me? Is there a need to make things sound so serious?"
"I trust you... So let me emphasize the condition upon which that trust rests."
"Understood, my lord~"
Hera's smile brightened as she rose gracefully, curtsying with impeccable charm.
Zeke nodded, satisfied.
"That's enough for today. We'll discuss the next steps tomorrow. Regarding the chaos outside... Deploy some additional military force and keep a closer eye on it. Minimize casualties but record everything meticulously. Identify those causing the most unrest; this information will be helpful for your actions over the next half-year."
With the tone of a leader, Zeke concluded his remarks, waved his hand, and brought an end to this small yet pivotal meeting that would reshape their world.