Chapter 288 The Presidential Order

"That has to change," Carol accused him, shocking the room into awkward silence. "You cannot run a city in America illegally like a dictator. You must resign." All eyes turned to Victor to see his reaction to Carol's straightforward insult. He leaned back in his chair, his fingers interlaced on the table, completely unfazed by the direct challenge. He met her gaze steadily, and a faint confident smile touched his lips, as if he had anticipated every word she would say. "With all due respect, Carol," he began like a teacher correcting a misunderstanding. "Springfield operates under full legal authority of the United States. It was declared a special military zone by a direct Presidential order months ago." Victor brandished a framed document that an attendant quickly brought to him. "This decree came straight from the Oval Office, recognizing the unique threats we faced and the need for streamlined governance. It's not illegal if it's sanctioned at the highest level. Do you claim to hav