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Chapter 29 - Chapter 29: Negotiation and the March Toward the Future

After the world was shaken by unimaginable changes, and with expectations shattered, it became clear that reality isn't always a fantasy, nor is it made of predictable patterns.

Humanity stood divided—between the joyful and the watchful. Now, they had a chance to become heroes like in comic books, to achieve what was once impossible. There were no longer distinctions in the control system of Heka—only your willpower and determination mattered. And more importantly: could you endure the pain?

Diseases would be cured. The world was entering an unprecedented technological race—endless electric energy, hidden secrets behind the gates and other realms, and a new hope of reaching them.

And with the Global Summit coming to an end, watched by humanity through the cameras, mankind had officially stepped into a future filled with wonder and adventure...

But they still had no grasp of the danger that awaited them—or of the creatures lurking, thirsting for vengeance against humankind.

After the public summit ended, a closed-door meeting began.

Inside were the Lords of the Immortal Trainee Orders, the Masters of the Magic Towers, the Shamans' Chiefs, and the leaders of the Great Nations.

They all turned their eyes to the President of Egypt and the four individuals behind him. But it was Mustafa who stepped forward once more, making it clear he would speak again.

None of the Great Nations' leaders were surprised. They knew the Egyptian President well. A listener and a thinker more than a talker—and if he did speak, then the matter was already settled.

Mustafa spoke:

"Now that you know what's to come, why did you insist on a closed-door meeting?"

Pressure weighed down on them—all from his use of Heka energy.

Despite the intense pressure, they remained calm and composed, staring through Mustafa as if his power meant nothing.

Then the American President chuckled bitterly, remembering how nothing had gone according to their plans. He said:

"You're really something. You laid out the entire plan in public—announced it as if we'd already agreed to it. You set the rules, right in front of the world.

Still, even with the threats we now face from creatures trying to wipe us out, and despite your knowledge—your monopoly over the Heka control system...

You're the ones who freed those 'superhuman' individuals, who turned out to be heirs of the ancient gods—or more accurately, the descendants of past Heka wielders...

You also own the company that controls the world's electricity, and the barrier protecting us, which is on the verge of collapse."

He gave a weary smile, burdened by how little information they had.

He continued:

"Alright. With all that you've got, we—the Great Nations—won't reject your plan. We agree. But we want something in return.

A little influence, a small share. Don't forget—we still have strength and technology. And since the world's turning into a sci-fi reality, I'm sure you'd still like to get your hands on more tech."

Then he went silent, locking eyes with Mustafa.

Mustafa looked at them, understanding exactly what they were thinking. The Great Nations wanted an agreement—leaving the reins to Egypt for now—but they were just biding their time, waiting to rebuild and reclaim their power. They had taken a step back today for the sake of their future.

But Mustafa didn't mind.

Silence hung in the air—thick with tension.

Mustafa finally broke it:

"No need to worry, Mr. President of America, Mr. President of the European Union, Mr. President of China, Mr. President of Russia...

We're still sticking to the agreement on splitting the energy company's profits from the pyramids. A few details will change, but your shares remain untouched. No worries.

As for your desire for influence and returns... you'll get them too. We're partners in this fight. We also want to defeat those mysterious beings. So let's unite. A better future awaits our children—and our nations."

The Great Nations' leaders let out subtle sighs of relief. But they also knew—had this been a greedy nation trying to devour them, it would've been easier to resist. But this was Egypt—seeking to empower them to face the threat together. That's why they agreed—and were even pleased with the outcome.

Mustafa then turned his attention to the other side—toward the Lords of the Orders, the Masters of the Towers, and the Chiefs of the Shamans.

He asked:

"Now that you've learned the truth... that your powers aren't enough... that you are human—just like us...

Will you help us, or not?"

They exchanged glances, each with their own thoughts. But it was the Shaman Chief who spoke first, smiling—as if he'd just received a message.

Moments later, he said:

"We stand with you. And as you said, we are human. We want to help, and—like the Great Nations—we also want a bit of influence, and a share of the gains."

The Tower Master looked at his Shaman friend, remembering their agreement. And with no real choice left, he said:

"I'm with you as well. We ask for the same as the Shamans, but we also seek truth, knowledge, and learning. I hope Egypt won't keep the truth from us—but rather help us discover it."

He paused, thinking to himself:

"Our ancestors, the old Masters of the Magic Towers, searched for the secrets of the Egyptian priests—the message they tried to pass on. And after all these years, we are a step away from those secrets... from understanding so much more."

Excitement filled his face—as if he had become young again.

The Lords of the Immortal Trainee Orders, however, looked among themselves, struggling to accept the truth—that they were just human. They had lived a lie for generations. What was the point of their lives now? They looked ready to refuse.

Before they could, Mustafa spoke:

"I hope you think carefully. This is for your own good—for all our futures."

Then, with a hint of menace:

"Shall I show you something before you decide?"

Suddenly, the room's screen displayed the secret locations of the Immortal Orders—completely surrounded. Yet the people inside were unaware of the danger around them.

Death awaited them—if their leaders made the wrong choice.

The Order Lords glanced at the Tower Masters and Shamans, sweat dripping down their brows. They had expected this... but not on such a scale.

Now they realized why the others had already accepted Egypt's terms.

The Lord of the Golden Immortal Order spoke up, veins bulging in anger, unable to believe this humiliation:

"What is the meaning of this?"

Mustafa, with an innocent face, replied:

"What? This is for your protection. To shield you from retaliation by the superhumans. You know they hate you more than anyone.

And since we don't want to fight among ourselves... we're protecting you.

I hope you understand, Lord of the Golden Immortal Order."

A sharp gaze pierced the man's soul.

He thought to himself:

"How could a mere human make me feel fear? Me—the once-in-a-lifetime talent—afraid of someone the same age as my children?

Fine... You want to play, Egyptians? So be it."

"We accept your terms too. We'll take what the others get."

Mustafa smiled:

"Of course. You, the Lords of Magic, Shamans, and Immortal Orders, will all receive some influence and rewards. But... you'll have to pay your share as well.

And don't worry—we're not asking for much.

So... what do you say?"

Next Stop: Egypt's Conditions and the Start of Execution

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