The silence was deafening. Every leader in the room exchanged glances, weighing their options. Neutrality had always been a safe haven, but now it had become a death sentence. There was no middle ground in the conflict ahead—only loyalty or annihilation.
Amara's fingers drummed nervously on the table. "You mean to say Paradise will not allow anyone to remain on the sidelines?"
Cecile's gaze locked onto her, sharp as steel. "Do you really think they'll spare anyone who stands idle? Paradise doesn't tolerate uncertainty. If you hesitate—if you do nothing—you'll die just the same as those who stand against them."
Kurogane clenched his jaw, veins bulging on his forehead. "And if we choose to side with Lyon?"
Cecile's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Then you'll have chosen survival—and something more."
Kairos leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "What more?"
Cecile didn't blink. "Freedom."
