21. World Congress: Final Talks

The final vote on the System Event concludes with the Treasure Hunt winning 63%, scheduled to begin in 90 days. As the Congress enters its closing hour and a half, Jake prepares to wrap up but is approached by Kim Eunseo, a level 51 delegate from a lower-ranked city who knows his identity.

In private, Kim Eunseo reveals herself as William’s psychiatrist and asks Jake to share his side of their past conflict. She requests that Jake avoid killing William on sight if they meet again, citing William’s trauma and unwillingness to talk. Jake, surprised and conflicted, considers the request.

Elsewhere, Carmen, feeling out of place among political elites, withdraws. Miranda asks to join her, drops formalities, and seeks a future-friendly rapport rather than immediate bargains. Miranda explains Carmen’s significance as a high-ranked figure linked to a Primordial and shares context on Valhal: Valdemar’s overwhelming strength and Gudrun’s effective leadership and talent-spotting.

Miranda’s framing reassures Carmen about Gudrun’s esteem and Valdemar’s qualities, easing Carmen’s self-doubt. After a quiet respite, Miranda departs to regroup with Haven as the timer nears zero.

Returning to Haven’s platform, Miranda finds Jake contemplative after Kim Eunseo’s visit. Jake admits the psychiatrist asked for restraint and notes William may suffer PTSD from their tutorial clash. Lillian rejoins; Neil continues last-minute teleportation talks. The First World Congress officially ends, with the next set for one year later.