LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 507: World Leaders
Tyree seemed reassured by her words, though the memory of what they had been through still lingered in the air.
Sensing the time to move on, Gojaro clapped his hands lightly. "Alright, let's go."
The group moved together, stepping out into the grand corridors of the Great Hall of the People. Jade looked around, taking in the imposing architecture. The high ceilings, intricate wood paneling, and massive columns all spoke of the building's significance. The polished marble floors reflected the muted light streaming through the tall windows, adding to the solemn atmosphere.
The walls were lined with red carpet runners, and large paintings depicting moments of historical importance adorned the walls. The quiet murmur of distant voices echoed through the hallways, giving the space a sense of gravity.
As they walked, Jade couldn't help but notice how everyone seemed to fit into their roles—Oscar's serious expression, Rosa's playful yet determined demeanor, and Tyree's quiet strength. Even the small girl, so young and innocent-looking, seemed to carry herself with a sense of purpose.
Finally, they approached a pair of imposing wooden doors, intricately carved and flanked by guards standing at attention. The weight of what lay beyond those doors pressed down on Jade, but she steeled herself, knowing that this was the moment they had been preparing for.
Gojaro pushed the doors open, revealing a large, circular room with a grand table at its center. Seated around the table were twelve of the world's most powerful leaders. The atmosphere was heavy with tension and anticipation. Jade's breath caught as she recognized the faces from countless news broadcasts and reports.
At the table were U.S. President Kamala Harris, Chinese President Li Qiang, Russian President Mikhail Petrov, and Indian Prime Minister Akash Verma. Nearby sat the leaders of Japan, Germany, and France—Prime Minister Riku Tanaka, Chancellor Annalena Baerbock, and President Emmanuel Macron.
Completing the assembly were leaders from the U.K., Brazil, Canada, and Australia: Prime Minister Sarah Johnson, President João Almeida, Prime Minister Lucas Roberts, and Prime Minister Emily White.
Jade felt her heart sink a bit as she stood at the top of the large set of stairs, looking down at the sea of people below. Conversations buzzed around the room, men and women in suits and ties discussing matters that seemed worlds apart from the chaos she was used to. She couldn't shake the feeling of being out of place, like she didn't quite belong in a setting like this.
"Master Gojaro," she began, her voice soft, "who are they?"
Gojaro followed her gaze and then replied, "Oh, those are some of the other people within our organization. We were required to bring forth our best twenty members to do a simple showcase. The fact that there are people with 'superpowers' scares the straight heck out of the world leaders and the general population."
Jade nodded, taking in the information. "So, this meeting is also about how to close that gap without causing too much of a world crisis."
"Exactly," Gojaro confirmed. "Events like these start with a lot of behind-the-scenes work. First, there's the coordination between governments—setting the agenda, determining who gets to speak, and what topics will be covered. Security is a massive concern, especially with the presence of people like us.
The leaders will have private discussions, often about the most sensitive issues, before anything is made public." Gojaro paused as he watched an old man walk up to the center stage
Once everyone's seated, the event officially begins with opening statements, usually from the host nation's leader. They'll outline the goals of the meeting, and then it's a long day of negotiations, presentations, and, of course, showcasing what we can do. It's all about balancing power, control, and making sure the world doesn't descend into chaos because of what we've become."
As Jade nodded, she watched an elderly man in a blue collared shirt, his face lined with wrinkles, step up to the podium. He cleared his throat before addressing the assembled crowd with a measured, solemn tone.
"Thank you all for coming to our second meeting," he began, his voice carrying the weight of recent events. "As you all know, our first gathering was more formal—a time to see each other, exchange national greetings, and, perhaps most importantly, to mourn those nations and countless lives we have lost in these dark times."
The man paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in. The room fell silent as everyone reflected on the devastation that had swept across the globe.
"It is with great pleasure and a sense of duty that we convene for this second meeting," he continued. "We are here today because of the bravery and sacrifice of many, including those from the United States' secret division of fighters, who have put their lives on the line for the sake of nations around the world."
He took a moment to acknowledge others. "Time and time again, they have not only fought valiantly but have also donated money, resources, and more to aid other countries in their times of need. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Japan, Brazil, and the nations of Southeast Asia for their relentless efforts.
When the monsters struck critical spots across the world, these nations stood tall, defending not just their borders but the very fabric of our global community."
The man's voice grew stronger, more resolute. "As you all know, the world is in a frantic effort to comprehend and adapt to the new reality that is upon us. A reality where the boundaries of our understanding are constantly being tested.
We stand at the precipice of a new world, one that demands an elite group to lead the charge forward, to defend what remains of our civilizations and to secure a future for humanity."
He looked out at the crowd, making eye contact with several world leaders who nodded in agreement. "Through much critical thinking, planning, and collaboration over the past four weeks, we have come together and decided to establish a new force—a force that will be known as the United Nations Defense Force, or UNDF for short.
This elite group will be comprised of eight divisions, each with its own distinct purpose, all led by the current standing Lead Director of the United States' secret division. This force will not remain in the shadows but will come into the light, recognized not as mere governmental weapons, but as protectors of humanity."
The elderly man paused, allowing his words to resonate in the room. "As we have all seen, the destruction caused by these otherworldly creatures and the lasting scars they have left on our world demand a unified response. This is not just about survival—it is about preserving our way of life, our values, and our future.
We must set aside our differences, at least for now, and focus on the monumental task of saving our world."
He gave a small, self-deprecating chuckle, lightening the heavy atmosphere just a bit. "Now, the details of these next steps... well, that's a bit out of my wheelhouse. After all, I'm just an old man." The room responded with a ripple of laughter, the brief moment of levity welcomed.
Stepping back from the podium, he turned to the Director, who approached with a handshake and a respectful bow. "Thank you, sir," the Director said, his voice carrying the confidence of a seasoned leader. "It is an honor to address such a distinguished crowd of people. Today, we will outline the steps necessary to forge ahead and ensure that humanity not only survives but thrives in this new world."