One Step Away

Airon walked determinedly toward the microphone, observing the civilians filling the space. His sharp eyes perceived the hidden dissatisfaction in their gazes, the frustration they had experienced under the oppressive hierarchy of the CRM. It was time to address their concerns and present them with a future full of hope and change.

"Citizens of the CRM, today we gather here, at this crucial moment in our history, to reflect on the sufferings we have endured due to the devastating virus that has plagued us.

We have all lost loved ones, we have seen our communities crumble under the weight of adversity. But today, I bring you a message of hope and renewal."

The leader of the S.C.T. spoke with passion and conviction, conveying his vision of a world where every life mattered, even the lives of innocent and vulnerable beings they had provided protection to.

After briefly scanning the surroundings, he resumed the vigor in his voice and announced, "The S.C.T. is committed to saving even those who have been forgotten, even the smallest and most fragile of our companions, like cats. We have preserved their well-being and granted them a second chance. And just as we have saved our feline friends, we are also here to save those who still need rescuing."

Airon's speech continued, addressing the need to live in a new system that provided security and equity for all. However, the leader of the S.C.T. understood that change could not be imposed without the consent and acceptance of those he represented.

"I acknowledge that living in a new system can generate legitimate apprehensions and concerns. We must all feel comfortable and satisfied with the world we live in. That's why today, I announce that all authority held by the CRM is dissolved. Every leader, every system that has kept you oppressed will be eliminated."

A murmur of surprise and astonishment ran through the crowd. But Airon, with his serene and determined smile, continued.

"However, I want it to be clear that any resistance to the orders of the S.C.T. will be dealt with severely. Anyone who opposes our path of change and progress will be eliminated without hesitation. We will not tolerate violence or discord. But I also want to assure you that our goal is to come together as a community, work together, and be happy until our bones can no longer move."

The crowd listened attentively, some showing uncertainty, but many others capturing the glimmer of hope in Airon's words.

Airon's eyes welled up with tears, so attached was he to this speech that his voice grew more powerful.

"Today, I announce the creation of an effective cure for the virus that has haunted our lives. No one will die from a walker's bite anymore. The time has come for us to stop fearing, to embrace a future where our lives are free from that constant fear. Together, we will build a safe world guided by a government that is in the hands of the people."

The crowd erupted in applause and cheers, embracing the hope that had been offered to them. Airon, satisfied with the response, looked at Elizabeth, who stared at Airon wordlessly, glanced around as if to check if time hadn't stopped, and shouted, "Airon, I thought you had decided to join the CRM!"

"Elizabeth, your blood-soaked path is not what I and my people are accustomed to traversing..." Jacob murmured with an indifferent look.

"Let me tell you that crushing you would have been too easy, but I wanted to show you that it's not necessary to kill thousands for others to listen to you."

"You are in the heart of the CRM... Who with weapons will listen to you?" At that moment, some of Elizabeth's captains drew their weapons.

In a moment of palpable tension, the soldiers who still harbored doubts or desires for resistance found themselves facing an unavoidable reality. Before them, numerous lasers were pointed directly at their heads, emitting a threatening gleam and reminding them of the fragility of their position.

The guards and captains most loyal to Elizabeth, who had remained steadfast until that moment, came to a sudden stop. Their faces reflected surprise and confusion at finding themselves in an apparently insurmountable disadvantage.

With the swift action of Airon's followers, measures were taken to secure control of the situation. Within seconds, S.C.T. agents surrounded the soldiers, ensuring they could not react aggressively or attempt resistance.

Airon's people, trained and disciplined, stood firm and determined. Without a hint of hesitation, they took control of the weapons and communications, neutralizing any attempt at rebellion. The efficiency and determination of their actions demonstrated their commitment to a peaceful transition to a new order.

Elizabeth, surprised and outnumbered, was forced to accept the reality before her. Recognizing the superiority of Airon's forces and the impossibility of resisting, she slowly lowered her weapon and urged her followers to do the same.

The scene unfolded in tense silence, only interrupted by the sound of weapons being laid on the ground. The soldiers, once loyal to Elizabeth, understood that their time in power had come to an end and that they had to accept the new direction being presented to them.

With control established and the surrender of those loyal to Elizabeth, Airon's followers took the necessary steps to maintain peace and ensure a conflict-free transition process. The soldiers submitted to the authority of their new leaders, recognizing the futility of resisting such overwhelming force.

At that moment, it became clear that the power and focus of the S.C.T. and its followers were undeniable.

The transition to a new order was carried out with unquestionable efficiency and strength, laying the foundation for a future where the well-being and security of society were fundamental priorities.

"[Begin the cleanup; no CRM leader can be left alive!]"