The plan proceeded as intended.
Four days later, Bronya completed the global grid-based blockade, containing the freely spreading corrosive forces within individual square regions using crisscrossing fields of micro-Honkai Energy decomposition. Gradually compressing these force fields, she systematically squeezed away the once boundless space available to the corruption.
Einstein and Tesla, along with their team of researchers, worked tirelessly around the clock. Just as the containment network was established, they finished modifying the Moonlight Throne's output system for irradiation. Without pausing, they immediately began releasing Honkai Energy decomposition radiation grid by grid, systematically clearing out the corruptive powers.
As a result, vast areas affected by the runaway mechanical technology started returning to normal. Seizing this opportunity, Welt demonstrated his role as both spiritual leader and master of action, guiding the now-safe people to swiftly recover their lost industrial capabilities and rebuild the technological foundation—a process that progressed remarkably smoothly.
On the soft power front, factors like capital, politics, religion, and organized crime were virtually eradicated during the initial purges. Anti-Entropy's administrative system, refined multiple times by Zeke, Einstein, Welt, Otto, and others, possessed sufficient strength to maintain stability and distribute resources effectively, replacing the market allocation mechanism entirely.
As for hard power, at this juncture, could any social force still stand against the combined might of Anti-Entropy and Schicksal? Just consider the Herrschers—Anti-Entropy had an abundance of such formidable combatants!
Naturally, the Herrscher of Corruption retaliated. The infection began spreading via electromagnetic waves, resulting in a dramatic acceleration within individual grid squares. Additionally, cases emerged where living organisms were infected, transforming them into aggressive monsters more potent than Honkai Energy-altered Zombies with higher infection efficiency.
However, humanity had Yae Sakura and the Key of Corruption on their side!
While Divine Keys couldn't compare to genuine Herrschers, they were sufficient for suppressing disasters to some extent and buying time.
Now, time was on humanity's side. The Herrscher of Corruption's every act of resistance was akin to a trapped beast's futile struggle.
"Whew—"
The gentle spring breeze lifted the corners of her crimson skirt and danced through strands of golden hair, casting dazzling reflections under the sunlight.
Hera sat on a white chair, with shattered skyscrapers at her feet. Behind her stood a silver-haired beauty silently holding a parasol, her face concealed behind a golden mask. The sight of this duo exuded an unparalleled elegance.
Her emerald eyes, shimmering like precious gems, scanned several projection screens before her. As Hera listened to updates from Einstein, Bronya, and Welt, a warm glow gradually filled her gaze.
"Well done, everyone. Truly exceptional individuals, never failing to impress." Hera spoke with genuine warmth in her smile.
Though the reactions varied among those on the screens, all displayed remarkable composure.
Taking down a Herrscher was neither their first nor last feat. While they felt some satisfaction, they remained mindful not to dwell too much on victory.
Meanwhile, Hera raised her hand and gently tugged at Amber's sleeve.
As the epitome of a perfect subordinate, Amber understood her intentions without needing explicit words. With no change visible beneath her golden mask, she swiftly conjured a standing sunshade, set up a table laden with refreshments, and prepared a cup of red tea for Hera.
Hera accepted the cup of tea, savoring its aroma with a soft sigh.
"The previous civilization also faced the Herrscher of Corruption," she said pensively. "The extent and severity of that calamity were far less than what we've experienced. Yet, that conflict led to the rift among the Thirteen Heroes of Pyre, intensified humanity's extreme stance against Honkai, and further tore apart the fragile harmony between Fire Moth and ordinary human society. It laid the foundation for numerous conflicts and internal strife, which persisted until the War of End. And now... just look at what we have achieved! More lives lost, greater devastation, but see those rebuilding their homes—do they seem afraid?"
Her sudden contemplation made everyone pause, abandoning their initial intention to cut off communication due to wasting time on Hera's tea break.
They fell silent, inevitably reflecting and marveling alongside her.
Indeed, despite facing a similar enemy with even more destruction and casualties, why does this era display such resilience, vastly surpassing the spirit of the previous one? Could this be proof of the fruits of their ongoing struggle?
A moment later, Einstein also had a cup of black tea. Holding the exquisite porcelain mug, she pondered aloud,
"People are social creatures. What is society? Society means having hierarchies; someone must lead the way for those following to steadily advance. In other words, humans inherently need governance and guidance."
Welt opened his mouth as if to counter her argument but ultimately just touched the ever-present blue scarf around his neck, unable to respond.
Hera smiled slightly and agreed with Einstein, directing her praise towards the doctor:
"You're right, Doctor. Humans are beings who cannot accomplish much without proper leadership. Why did the previous era become an increasingly unsightly mess? Because the heroes leading the charge focused on advancing technology and boosting combat capabilities, forgetting about governance. The Fire Moths strove for victory, moving swiftly and far ahead, yet they never turned back to guide the people mired in the swamps... They entrusted this power to short-sighted and ignorant conventional leaders. As a result, while cutting-edge technologies and military strength soared, the vast human foundation below crumbled like scattered feathers. All that remained for ordinary individuals were accumulating fear and confusion."
Hera raised her cup, the delicate contrast between her translucent lips and the pure white ceramic stirring emotions within those present. Her gaze seemed to pierce through fifty millennia, witnessing the final moments as human society crumbled into chaos.
Bronya also picked up her can of sparkling drink, took a gulp, and spoke with her unique voice—cool yet retaining a hint of childishness:
"So Zeke arrived. Whether by guidance or coercion, under his control, the world was brought together. We openly told everyone how terrifying Honkai is, but also assured them that victory was possible. We warned them about death looming near, while informing them that many brave individuals were protecting them—and that they too could contribute their strength to safeguard themselves."
Nodding, Hera turned toward Bronya: "I have little expectation from human nature, but I am aware that Honkai poses a calamity to civilization. No matter how exceptional a few individuals may be, standing alone cannot fundamentally change much. Thus, I once felt pessimistic about overcoming Honkai. Over the past five hundred years, my efforts focused on consolidating power and authority, striving merely to maintain an illusion of peace. It's fair to say, the current situation far exceeds my initial expectations. You all have truly created miracles—to heroes!"
Einstein and Bronya raised their teacup and soda can as a toast to Hera's words.
Only Welt scratched his head, utterly bewildered.
"Wait, why is everyone drinking now?"
The ladies continued sipping their beverages, ignoring Welt—after all, who was to blame if the Alliance Leader didn't provide refreshments for a meeting?