Chapter 290: Winter Soldier
"It’s not that they deserve it. It’s that we need it."
His voice, though calm, carried the weight of centuries.
"The Earth is fractured—not by villains, not by monsters—but by fear, by ego, by indecision. You all believe you’re protecting your people. But in truth..."
He glanced across the crowd of flickering holographic world leaders.
"You’re protecting your seats."
A silent tremor passed through the room.
"The Ten Rings are not salvation."
He gestured behind him as the floating rings slowly circled, glowing with ominous power.
"They are trials. A burden meant only for those strong enough to carry it, wise enough to fear it, and selfless enough to never use it for themselves."
A pause.
"This world doesn’t need more kings or presidents or dictators."