The Tycoon's Odyssey

Chapter 384 384:Tighten The Rope

In the Global South.

Particularly in emerging democracies, the reactions were mixed. While many hailed Indra's move as a beacon of hope, political leaders condemned it, seeing it as a potentially dangerous precedent that could inspire rebellion. Protests erupted in major cities, led by educated youth demanding similar reforms. Though these movements remained small, they unnerved the ruling classes, who scrambled to reinforce their grip on power.

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In Authoritarian Regimes.

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For nations with deeply entrenched dictatorships, the reform was treated as a cautionary tale.

Leaders denounced it as an affront to sovereignty and dismissed it as a symptom of a failing democracy. State propaganda machines went into overdrive, portraying Indra's reforms as chaotic and unnecessary.

Yet, among the intelligentsia, quiet admiration simmered beneath the surface. Scholars debated whether such policies could be tailored to benefit their nations, offering benefits without jeopardizing the existing order.

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In International Organizations

Global think tanks and organizations like the World Union cautiously praised Indra's boldness while expressing concern about its implementation. Some critics argued that the policy was an overreach that could alienate marginalized communities or discourage grassroots leaders.

Conversely, others hailed it as a vital step toward global political reform. The topic became a contentious issue in international conferences, with heated debates splitting experts along ideological lines.

At last, it was the Prime Minister of Daxia, Zhao Renshu, who broke the silence. He leaned forward, his expression stony, and replied in a clipped tone, "We are not afraid of Indra."

Walter's lips curled into a faint, humorless smile. "Oh? Then why the hesitation? Why haven't you followed through with the agreed directives?"

Zhao's voice was as cold as Walter's gaze. "That's because pushing them too far would only destabilize the global landscape. Indra is one of our largest buyers, and our economy depends heavily on exporting goods to them. Are you asking me to sever that lifeline and cripple my own country?"

A murmur of agreement rippled through the conference.

The President of the United Sovereign League (USL), Malcolm Stokes, spoke next, his brows furrowed, and his tone carrying a hint of frustration. "It's one thing to impose minor restrictions. We've all done that before, and we can always find ways to negotiate or bypass them eventually. But you're asking for a total embargo. We've already hiked tariffs and tightened customs enforcement. Beyond that, you're asking us to walk into a fire while our economies burn."

The Prime Minister of the Southern Ocean Confederacy, Eleanor Marris, nodded in agreement. Her voice was measured, but the strain was evident. "We've taken significant steps, Sir Walter. Ships bound to head to Indra are delayed for inspections, goods are taxed higher, and trade volumes have decreased. But a complete restriction? That's economic suicide for my nation. We rely on the raw materials and finished goods we export to Indra. If we lose that, my government will collapse within months."

From the Greater Andean Federation, President Arturo Velasco added with a grim expression, "We're already facing backlash from our business sectors for the restrictions we've put in place. Protests are brewing, and it's only a matter of time before they erupt. I can't afford to ignite civil unrest over this."

Chancellor Ingrid Falk of the Northern Realms leaned back in her chair, her sharp gaze fixed on Walter. "This isn't just about economics. Indra has shown no hesitation in retaliating against even the smallest of threats. If we push too far, they could destabilize our markets or block resources we critically need. This isn't fear; it's calculated caution."

Walter's gaze swept across the room, his jaw tightening. "So, it seems you're all more concerned about your wallets than about setting a global example. Is that what I'm hearing?"

"Not wallets—survival," Arturo shot back, his tone biting. "There's a difference. We can't lead if our nations are in chaos."

"Indra tech is advancing and developing nations like ours can use this benefit unlike some developed nations," he scoffed, shooting a glance at the few who just ignored it with a blank expression.

Walter remained silent, his cold eyes boring into the camera. The silence stretched long and heavy, leaving the leaders shifting uncomfortably in their seats. Finally, he spoke, his voice laced with quiet menace.

"Survival is temporary. Legacy is permanent. Remember that."