Then the tone of the broadcast changed.

The anchor’s voice sharpened with the kind of practiced seriousness that made people turn without being told to.

Samuel looked up.

On the screen stood a row of world figures behind polished podiums. Political leaders. Religious leaders. Representatives from major institutions. The words at the bottom of the screen were simple enough to make the room feel smaller.

**A historic declaration of peace and security.**

No one spoke at first.