Chapter 5:
Ethan stood in his private chamber, the weight of the empire now fully on his shoulders. He had been prepared for this—trained for it, shaped for it. And yet, as he sifted through the official documents, one particular file caught his attention.
It was an old document, one not included in the official records presented to the world. The Secret Constitution.
His eyes scanned the words carefully, his heart pounding as he read the ancient decree:
"Once the ruler of the Blackwood Empire passes the torch, he transcends the throne. He is no longer a ruler bound by mortal governance but ascends to the position of the God of the Empire—his authority absolute, his presence above even the one who wears the crown."
Ethan's grip on the parchment tightened. This was the ultimate safeguard. Chris had not just relinquished his title—he had ascended beyond it.
With a deep breath, Ethan walked into the Grand Hall, where the council of leaders awaited. The tension in the air was thick; even Classic and Christiana remained silent, waiting for what was to come.
Ethan stepped forward, raising his voice so all could hear.
"Today, I make an official declaration—Chris Blackwood is no longer bound by the laws of this empire. He is no longer just a man, nor just a former ruler. As dictated by the hidden laws of our foundation, from this moment onward, he shall be recognized as the God of the Empire."
Gasps rippled through the room. Some already knew of the secret decree, but many did not.
Classic's eyes darkened in realization. Christiana clenched her fists, knowing that this meant their father's word would forever hold power, even above Ethan.
Ethan continued, his voice unwavering.
"His decisions shall not be questioned. His presence remains eternal. He is above all rulers, beyond all laws. And we, the Blackwood bloodline, shall ensure that his name is worshiped for all time."
At the far end of the hall, Chris sat in silence, watching as the empire he had built acknowledged his new position.
A slow, knowing smirk appeared on his face.
The Blackwood name had transcended mortality.
And the world would never be the same.