Chapter 3: A World Divided
The world is on edge, teetering on the brink of change. Since the Tower's descent, humanity has been gripped by fear and wonder, torn between the allure of untapped power and the overwhelming uncertainty of the unknown. The once familiar world now feels like it's slowly unravelling at the seams.
People everywhere are asking themselves the same questions. What is the Tower? What does it want? And more importantly, will they be ready when the time comes?
Governments across the globe have split into factions, each trying to find its place in this new reality. Some have embraced the Tower's promise of power and progress. These nations are offering their citizens the chance to enter the Tower, unlocking their potential and changing the course of their futures. They see the Tower as an opportunity—an unparalleled moment in history.
Other governments, however, view the Tower with suspicion. Fearful of the unknown forces it brings, they have closed their borders, banning their citizens from gaining access. Some fear the power that the Tower may unleash, while others worry about the consequences of their people awakening abilities they cannot control. North Korea, for example, has been steadfast in its refusal to allow the Tower to enter its borders.
North Korea's government maintains its hardline stance, dismissing the Tower as a foreign threat. They are determined to keep their people away from it, insisting that it poses a danger to national security. To the rest of the world, this defiance becomes a flashpoint. Nations like South Korea, Japan, the United States, and Germany begin to apply intense diplomatic and economic pressure, calling on North Korea to allow its citizens to participate in the awakening process. But despite mounting international pressure, North Korea's government refuses to budge, seemingly unmoved by the growing global consensus that the Tower must be embraced.
Tensions rise as North Korea's refusal becomes an increasingly polarizing issue. The United Nations steps in, urging North Korea to reconsider, but Pyongyang remains defiant. Its people, meanwhile, have begun to grow restless, whispers of the Tower spreading among them. Rumors swirl of its power, and there are growing fears that their nation will be left behind, unable to compete with the rest of the world.
In the global arena, the question remains: Will the Tower divide the world into those who can awaken and those who are left behind?
As if summoned by the weight of the situation, a familiar voice echoes in my mind, sharp and clear against the backdrop of my thoughts.
Administrator, the first phase is beginning. However, some regions are still in the dark. North Korea, in particular, stands opposed to the Tower. Your role is clear. You must hasten the process. The world cannot wait.
The weight of the voice settles heavily on my chest. The Tower is stirring, and time is ticking. But North Korea's refusal to allow its citizens access is unacceptable. They're standing in the way of progress—of their own people's potential. I can't let that continue.
I turn my gaze to the system window, the glow of it intensifying as I focus. A surge of power flows through me, and I know what I must do.
System command: Accelerate the opening of the Tower's gates. All countries. All regions. Without exception.
The decision is final. There's no turning back now. I hesitate for only a moment, then confirm the command.
A worldwide announcement echoes, loud and clear, across the globe.
Worldwide Announcement: The Tower of Babel's first phase will open sooner than expected. Countries that restrict access will face consequences. No nation shall remain in the dark.
The words hang in the air, sending ripples across the planet. I feel the Tower respond to my command, the energy of it intensifying. The clock has been set into motion. I am in control now. The countdown begins, and I know that soon, no country will be able to halt the Tower's inevitable rise.
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In North Korea, the regime's grip tightens, its refusal to cooperate only growing more obstinate. The government insists that the Tower is a foreign imposition, a danger that they will not allow to infect their people. But the pressure is mounting. Citizens are beginning to question their leadership, fearful of being left behind as the rest of the world moves forward.
Whispers circulate through the population, rumors of what might be gained by entering the Tower. But the government remains resolute, adamant that they will not bow to foreign pressure. The outside world watches with bated breath, waiting for North Korea's response. But in Pyongyang, the government digs its heels in deeper, determined to retain control.
But the consequences of their actions are just beginning to unfold.
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Meanwhile, across the border in South Korea, the government has already begun preparations for the Tower's arrival. Citizens are being briefed on how to prepare for their awakening. The government is offering resources and training to those who are willing to enter, positioning the Tower as a path to greater power and influence. The South Korean leadership sees the Tower as an opportunity—one they cannot afford to squander.
In the United States, excitement is palpable. Across the country, news outlets buzz with anticipation. People gather in droves, eager for the chance to awaken their true potential. Military forces are on high alert, ready to protect the areas where the Tower's influence is strongest. The government is making preparations to handle the massive influx of people, ensuring that they are ready to support the awakening process.
Germany, too, is following suit. Their government has taken a cautious yet proactive approach, offering citizens a chance to awaken their latent powers while keeping a watchful eye on the unfolding situation. Europe watches as the Tower's influence spreads, unsure of what the future holds but hopeful that they can adapt to this new world.
But all of them—South Korea, the United States, Germany—are waiting. Watching. And in North Korea, the waiting continues, as time slips through their fingers.
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I focus once again on the system.
Administrator, the timer will continue to tick. You have accelerated the opening process. Soon, no nation will be able to stop it.
The Tower will soon open for those willing to take the leap. But those countries that refuse will face the consequences. The world will be irrevocably changed, and the balance of power will shift in ways that no one can predict.
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End of Chapter 3