The words that had just been spoken by Marc widened everyone's eyes. It had been no less than four months since the summoning of the Lost Ones on Trillia, yet they were still unaware of the cultural differences among the three distinct nations of this world. After all, how could an authoritarian state, a democracy, and a monarchy coexist peacefully?
"The Lost Ones? They still account for 24% of my kingdom's military might," Rymis clarified.
Marc placed both his hands on the desk and took a moment to consider his proposal.
"From what we know, the Lost Ones come from a world where technology similar to ours exists... I believe they will not only adapt quickly but also prove to be of great utility. Besides, wouldn't it provide them with a taste of modernity once more?"
"You're right. Sometimes I forget they're just teenagers, whom we've stripped of a normal life."
"That was the only way for us to defeat Damahan. Their unique skills offer unimaginable potential. Nobody else is as skilled as these young ones. That's why we chose to summon them to Trillia. Moreover, on the topic of your military, wasn't it Milityasha herself who suggested that your kingdom takes charge of the Lost Ones? Do you remember?"
"Yes…"
[A year ago, at a strategy meeting aimed to counteract Damahan]
That day, the three leaders of Trillia had convened around a round table. The room was dark save for a single source of light: a lamp illuminating the wooden table and the faces of Milityasha, Marc, and Rymis III.
A palpable tension filled the room, yet only Milityasha exhibited an air of calm and assurance. Her long white hair, green eyes, and gracefully tailored white and green military uniform exuded a mystifying aura, piquing everyone's curiosity.
Marc and Rymis wore more stoic expressions, seemingly more in tune with the gravity of the situation. Adjusting his tie, Marc began:
"Alright... As we all know, we are here once again to discuss the Damahan threat, which we initially broached two years ago during our dinner meeting. The mage experts from the Kingdom of Rymis presented a solution: to summon teenagers with superhuman abilities and harness those powers for personal use. Our subjects today will focus on accepting this idea, potential alternatives if rejected, and the nation to oversee them. Let the discussion begin."
Milityasha responded with a subtle smile, "Thank you for initiating this, Marc. Damahan holds the power to destroy multiverses. Our weapons and technology will be moot against him. He is an inevitable threat, underscoring our vulnerabilities. Our efforts to guard Trillia against his power show resilience but also, perhaps, a foolhardiness in trying to overcome the insurmountable."
"Are you saying we're fools?" Rymis interjected.
"On the contrary. I am merely saying our willingness to face adversity, regardless of the nature of the threat, is commendable."
Marc agreed, "We might differ ideologically, but we can unite against common perils."
"Turning back to the teenagers", Milityasha added, "Are we certain they'll accept? After all, they're just children. Entrusting the hope of an entire multiverse to mere youths is perilous."
"You have a point," Rymis continued, "time is of the essence. Two years have passed since Dalfa's vision. We cannot delay. If we do, Damahan's arrival will spell our doom."
"I'm not against the idea. But the decision to take teenagers as the saviors of a multiversal threat deeply displeases me. It's not ethical. Rymis, have your mage experts identified any other potential replacements?"
"This idea is indeed bold," Rymis sighed. "To answer your question, my mage experts use energy-draining magic to search for lives from other universes. It took them three months just to find one suitable candidate. Finding more could consume even more time."
"Ah, I see… So we only have this option. A double-edged decision, but with the stakes so high, it seems we have little choice."
"Does everyone approve of this then?", asked Marc.
Milityasha and Rymis nodded in agreement, signaling their approval to summon the teenagers. Marc let out a deep sigh, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on his shoulders. But as he was about to speak again, Milityasha placed her hands on the round table and shifted the topic, this time with a more somber and imposing demeanor:
"All this is well and good... But what do we do if they refuse? We can't force them; that would be ethically wrong. How would our fellow citizens see us if we force them into compliance? This is why we must absolutely find another solution based on this assumption. Rymis, any thoughts?"
"If they refuse, we might have to place our hopes on the most powerful beings on our planet. Perhaps even consider contacting Mudon, the entity who sealed Nerhel a millennium ago."
"That might be a good idea... But there's an issue. Mudon is a being about whom we know very little. Contacting him would be next to impossible, especially if he is a higher entity. Marc, any alternatives?"
"We could try to persuade the Archangels using prayers from our angelic humans. However, I fear it may be a futile attempt. I also have another, perhaps less realistic idea, but it could be beneficial if true."
Milityasha leaned forward, resting her chin on her hands, intrigued by what he might suggest.
"I'm open to all ideas. Do go on."
"As you know, a few years ago our radio telescopes captured a radio signal from the Stremage constellation. This signal lasted for 61 seconds. To this day, our astrophysicists are trying to determine whether it's an unknown spatial phenomenon or an attempt at contact by an extraterrestrial civilization. We could try sending them an SOS, informing them of Damahan's approach and possibly collaborating to defeat him. However, it's uncertain if our message would reach them in time and be understandable to them."
"Ah, that phenomenon always fascinated me... It's so captivating to imagine another intelligent civilization... But as you mentioned, it's almost impossible for them to receive and comprehend our message in time. In any case, I've considered a collaboration between demons and humans. We could attempt to find common ground to defeat Damahan. However, who knows if these cruel beings will agree... On the other hand, we could leverage our top scientists, including Rosaria Ashford, to work on a military project aimed at developing technology to alter certain aspects of reality, thereby weakening Damahan... Still, I'm open to the idea of summoning the teenagers, much as it displeases me."
"And which nation will take care of them?" he asked, shifting the conversation. His eyes scanned the two other leaders. Milityasha, with a slight smile, her green eyes fixing on Rymis in the dim light, voiced her opinion:
"I believe your kingdom would be the most suitable, Rymis. After all, it has the most experts in magic. Moreover, your people are known for their discipline and respect for rules, two essential traits when dealing with the Lost Ones."
Marc, who had been comfortably seated, suddenly leaned forward, locking eyes with Milityasha.
"With all due respect, Milityasha, I don't think the 'Lost Ones', as you say, will adjust to the technological gap between their lands and the Kingdom of Rymis. Argha and Edra seem like better options."
"True... But I didn't suggest this solely based on the cultural difference in Rymis's Kingdom. I think it would boost the kingdom's military defenses."
"What do you mean by that?" Rymis inquired.
"Rymis… Let me be blunt, your closed-mindedness will be your downfall, and everyone feels the same way as I do. Allow me to remind you that an Edrian study concluded that in 60 years, no less than 36% of Rymisian residents have left your kingdom. Magic is undeniably powerful, but it cannot compete with technology. Moreover, reports from WADI confirm that your kingdom suffers from demonic attacks thirty-two times more frequently. Do you have a rebuttal, monarch of the Kingdom of Rymis?"
Rymis lowered his head, pausing for a brief moment. A subtle, almost mischievous smile appeared on Milityasha's face. After a long period of thought, Rymis finally spoke:
"The magic of my kingdom is more than sufficient. It's true that the demons pose a threat, but my two angelic humans manage that danger impeccably."
Milityasha chuckled, "Indeed, it's undeniable that the core strength of a nation lies in its angelic humans. Edra stands easily at the forefront alongside Rahman, while your Kingdom, with Marshal Anabito and Hermiel Vini, takes the second spot. Argha, on the other hand, is at the bottom of the list with Meyla Karshkanov... Even though all play vital roles in national defense against the demonic race, magic and technology are assets equivalent to angelic humans. Considering your nation is the second angelic power, it remains vulnerable to threats that technology could address. The sheer fact that WADI is much more active in the Kingdom of Rymis than in Edra or Argha proves my point. This is why I strongly recommend you accept my proposal and take care of the Lost Ones."
Milityasha abruptly stood, offering Rymis a warm handshake, "Come on, Rymis... This decision is to your advantage. There's no reason for you to decline. Plus, I'm extending a friendly hand. Can't you accept it?"
As she spoke with a confident smile, sure she was aiding her neighboring country, her eyes delved deep into Rymis's.
"I'm unsure, it's a great responsibility..."
"So, are you admitting that you don't deserve your sovereign status? Quite disappointing... But then, I shouldn't be surprised, considering you've always resisted change due to your royal lineage's traditions..."
As Milityasha leaned forward, her gaze ensnared Rymis's with such intensity, it almost overwhelmed him.
"I believe it's time to set the record straight, Rymis. As far back as I can recall, you've never made efforts for your people, never considered their well-being!"
"Milityasha, what are you playing at?" Marc interjected, "We're here to reach a common ground for peace, not to settle personal scores!"
"Oh, but I think that's exactly what we're here for! It's high time we settled our differences, don't you think, Rymis?"
"You're not above reproach either, Milityasha. What about the cult of personality you so proudly display? What about the labor camps from Argha's old regime you chose to retain?! And all those Arghatien propaganda posters flooding your nation's streets?!"
"The difference between us, Rymis, is that I've always put my people first. I never forced a cult of personality upon my citizens; they chose to see me as their Mother after my revolution against Anton Ivanov. The propaganda campaigns remind Arghatians of their identity – unified citizens under my leadership, striving for an egalitarian society within the powerful nation of Argha! As for the Kolmagor, I retained them to punish the former SSA members for their crimes. Unlike you, I've lived through the poverty and biting cold of North Argha, endured a totalitarian regime's oppression. Dare to challenge me, one who grew up in opulence!"
"Enough, both of you!" Marc admonished.
Milityasha's cutting words, although forewarned by Marc, echoed sharply in Rymis' mind. The intensity of her gaze ignited a mix of anger and shame within him, revealing the gravity of their current situation.
"So, all things considered, I believe I'll take responsibility for the Lost Ones on your behalf! After all, you can't even properly care for your own subjects, so how would you handle these youths? And besides, this would only increase the power I already hold! My army, already stronger than both Edra and the Kingdom of Rymis combined, would become even more formidable!"
She turned to Marc, waiting with a sly smile to gauge his reaction. His crossed hands betrayed the tension of the moment. The silence thickened, punctuated only by Milityasha's widening smirk.
"What do you think, Marc? It's a solid plan, isn't it?"
"On one hand," Marc began, "you make a compelling argument. It's in Rymis' best interest to take the Lost Ones under his care for the sake of his kingdom's security... But I know Rymis. He's too attached to his pride and honor to accept such change swiftly, so I fear it's a lost cause. Personally, I have no objections if you wish to take care of the Lost Ones."
Milityasha, with a theatrical swing, turned back to Rymis, dramatically slamming both hands on the round table. The noise echoed, signaling her clear derision.
"Did you hear that, Rymis? It seems the wicked dictator Milityasha Karpeva might just take the Lost Ones under her wing. I can't wait to see their reactions when they learn they could've been summoned to such an archaic nation as yours."
"Milityasha! Enough! This isn't like you. Stop now, or I'll end this meeting at once!" Marc cried out.
Yet she continued, her attention unwavering from Rymis, her gaze filled with charisma and cunning.
"Well?! What's the matter? Scared of little ol' me? After all, I'm just a woman, devoid of personal power or magical abilities. What are you so afraid of? My gaze? My authority? Or just facing reality?"
Her green eyes gleamed in the dim light, perfectly encapsulating her sarcastic intimidation. As she reached out a hand towards him, it was as if she was offering him a final ultimatum.
"Look me in the eyes, Rymis! See the evil dictator before you. See the woman offering her counterpart a chance to evolve, yet he refuses despite the obvious benefits!"
With her other hand, she grabbed Rymis' face, ensuring their eyes locked.
"Who's the real dictator, Rymis? Is it me, trying to sacrifice my military advantage for the betterment of a neighboring nation? Or is it you, ignoring every opportunity presented, leaving your people in constant fear of demonic invasions?"
But as her words replayed in his mind, Rymis defiantly met Milityasha's outstretched hand, asserting his kingly authority. The reaction surprised both Marc and Milityasha.
"Fine! I accept responsibility for the Lost Ones! I'll show you I can care for my people!" he declared.
"Oh? A wise choice, Rymis. Finally realizing the importance of change?"
"In a way. You're right. The Lost Ones could be invaluable."
Milityasha's entire face lit up with a radiant smile. "I'm glad to see you accept change. I apologize for the accusations. Know that I didn't mean them. I just wanted to push you to show that you're capable of caring for your people."
As Milityasha's words came to an end, Marc was left feeling unsatisfied, internally judging the meeting as unfair.
"One last thing, Milityasha," Marc warned.
"Yes?"
"While it may enlighten Rymis to certain truths, I strongly condemn psychological manipulation. I'll let it slide this time, but I won't be so lenient next time."
Milityasha sighed, resting her hands on the table just as she had at the beginning of the meeting.
"Is this a provocation, dear Marc? It seems a different side of your personality is showing itself."
"It's not a provocation, but a warning. Rymis might be gullible, but I am far from it. I'm just letting you know that if you try to manipulate me in the future, there will be consequences."
"I had no such intention; why would I? Besides, I did it for the good of the multiverse, so is it really reprehensible?"
"You're not wrong, but who knows what you're really thinking? Anyway, let's move on…"
Marc extended his hand in a summoning gesture, and a mystical force radiated into the air around the round table that separated them.
[Presidential Magic: Contract]
Azure runes appeared instantly after Marc pronounced the name of his spell. Out of them emerged a blank sheet, containing lines of text in a unique language resembling French but with a Cyrillic alphabet, likely the language of Trillia. A pen also appeared.
"This contract certifies the acceptance of the teenagers we will call 'the Lost Ones' as proposed by Milityasha. It commits the Kingdom of Rymis, Edra, and Argha to respect their privacy, their power acquisition, their living conditions, and their magical training. In accordance with the international humanitarian and elven rights drafted in the year 320, we will be bound to respect the choice made by the Lost Ones upon their summoning. Moreover, the Lost Ones will be recognized as National Guards with the right to employ their personal powers, mana, and magic during missions assigned by the responsible authority of the respective country. They will be housed, fed, and protected at no cost, and will have the opportunity to request whatever they desire based on their wants and needs. If there are any questions or disagreements, please voice them immediately. Otherwise, please sign this contract."
Milityasha grabbed the pen and signed the contract. When it was Rymis' turn, he signed with visible hesitation. Then, handing the pen to Marc, the president also added his signature. Everyone stood up, and they all exchanged handshakes.
"It was a meeting filled with challenging decisions, but we managed to reach an agreement on the discussed matters. I commend us for that!" Milityasha added.