[Arktoskaya, capital of Argha]
Meanwhile, in Argha, the sunset was unfolding gently across the sky, casting an emerging glow on the horizon. The snow appeared to gradually lose its thickness from the streets and vehicles. The inhabitants, wrapped in their polar coats and hats, sought refuge from the bitter cold in underground casinos and cabarets. They all yearned for one thing: the arrival of spring.
Yet, amidst this wintery backdrop, the capital stood out for its fervent adoration towards Milityasha Karpeva, the nation's savior-like president. Propaganda posters endorsing the Arghatian regime were inescapable. Statues in her likeness, some colossal, others modest, adorned the streets. Arktoskaya, much like in Svetograd, celebrated Karpeva in an extravagant manner, ensuring her grip on the country remained unyielding.
A short distance away, in the heart of downtown, the imposing governmental complex known as the Agrenin towered magnificently. This behemoth stood like a bastion, encircled by hefty concrete walls and overshadowed by massive towers housing vigilant guards, each proudly brandishing their assault rifles. The Agrenin, an architectural marvel, sprawled as far as one's eyes could see, both horizontally and vertically. It comprised a multitude of structures that seamlessly blended modernity with the quaint allure of Arghatian tradition, melding vibrant colors and unique oval architectural forms.
Within this imposing complex, especially inside the central palace, a convoluted network of corridors and staircases was embellished with lavish white marbles, crafting an intricate labyrinth with numerous levels of significance. One of these thresholds, marked by a majestic door of wood and gold, bore the engraved name: Katyusha Wagnerström. She was the General of Argha's Armies, a power figure within this grand governmental matrix.
Katyusha, clad in her imposing green military uniform and proudly donning a hat with the insignia of command, was engrossed in meticulously reading several files spread out on her desk. Her deep violet eyes, perfectly complementing her outfit's shade, seemed to reflect an unwavering determination. Her neatly groomed brown hair framed her face, enhancing her stature as both a woman and the Army's General. Her presence exuded an aura of authority and significance, leaving no doubt about her standing within the military ranks.
Suddenly, there was a soft double knock at the door. She paused her reading and, with a gentle yet pleasant voice, permitted entry.
"Come in."
An elderly military officer entered the room, carrying a small stack of files under his arm. As soon as the door closed behind him, he gave a military salute.
"Good evening, General Vosk. What brings you here today?"
"Good evening, General. I have several recent cases to present to you, two of which are of utmost importance."
"I'm all ears."
"Firstly, multiple witnesses have reported spotting members of the Reverse Magic Cult in Heimlertherg, close to the border between Argha and the Kingdom of Rymis. This could indicate the start of a recruitment phase, possibly the rise of a new Bearer of Aversion."
"Do they have any evidence to support their claims? Other than testimonies?"
"Yes, madam. Here, this document contains a photograph taken at the scene."
General Vosk handed over a file to Katyusha. Upon opening it, she saw a clear picture of five individuals, each dressed enigmatically in a black cloak that covered their heads and bodies, with two bracelets on their arm and a leather belt.
"If you believe this truly indicates the rise of a new Bearer of Aversion, then it would mean the incidents that happened over a decade ago might repeat themselves... They might also carry out numerous attacks to keep us off balance from their true agenda. Moreover, if we add this to the increasing demonic attacks occurring daily, the situation could quickly escalate and become unmanageable. Martial law may need to be enforced, but we first need to investigate the alleged reappearance of this cult."
She placed the file among the others on her desk and, with a sigh and her hands clasped, resumed the conversation.
"And the second one?"
Immediately, Vosk laid the second file on her desk, open to a specific page that showcased a photo of a metropolis, precisely Svetograd, where a purple beam shot through the skies from nowhere.
"A few days ago, a teenage girl illegally used magic to protect a young woman from a rapist. Here's the extent of her capabilities."
"Ah, the story that's been all over the news. Hmm... I must admit I don't quite understand... Cases of illegal supernatural power use happen daily, so why should I be specifically concerned about this one?"
"For two reasons. First, she seems to be acting heroically, much like Rahman. And secondly, she employed an unknown form of magic called 'astral magic.' It apparently allows her to fly and manipulate cosmic forces."
"Just like that Lost One? What's her name again?"
"You're referring to Gwendoline Bourcier?"
"Exactly, that girl!"
"That's a fair comparison, General."
"Indeed... Ever since these 'Lost Ones' appeared, the world seems to be changing in unprecedented ways."
Suddenly, she handed the second file back to Vosk and kept the one on reverse magic with her.
"Anyway, understand that the second matter doesn't concern me. The WADI should be investigating the young girl; they are far more competent in this area than I am. However, rest assured, I'll handle the cult of the reverse magic. Terrorism is strictly punished by Argha; they won't commit a massacre this time... Ah! One more thing!"
She opened a drawer in her desk and retrieved a large beige envelope, labeled "WADI - Kingdom of Rymis," and handed it to Vosk with both hands.
"The Prime Minister asked me to give you this envelope."
Vosk grabbed the envelope and noted its unusual weight, surmising there must be a lot of paperwork inside.
"He wants me to transmit it myself?"
"I don't know what's in it, but Briak insisted on giving it to you to pass on to WADI in the Kingdom of Rymis. Can you handle that?"
"Of course."
"Also, give my warm regards to Rosaria when you hand it over."
"I will be happy to, General Wagnerström."
"You may leave, General Vosk."
"At your command, General Wagnerström. I wish you a pleasant rest of the day."
"To you as well."
Both of them exchanged a solemn military salute, their impeccable uniforms a testament to their dedication to duty. Then, Vosk took his leave, leaving Katyusha alone in the room marked by a unique serenity. Through the window, the last snowflakes of winter danced delicately before settling gently on the sill.
From her vantage point, she had a breathtaking view of Arktoskaya, the nearly futuristic-looking capital with its towering skyscrapers and mesmerizing array of neon lights. Her gaze settled on the elevated railway tracks snaking through the city, where colossal supersonic trains transported various military vehicles – a testament to Argha's might and readiness.
She glanced back at the folder on reverse magic, seemingly entranced by the knowledge it contained. "The Sect of Reverse Magic..." she murmured, fingers brushing her chin. After thoroughly revisiting the document, she decided that this intel needed to be conveyed personally to Milityasha. Rising from her chair, she clutched the folder tightly and departed the room. To reach the presidential chamber of Argha, she ascended a grand marble staircase.
In the vast hall of the palace, numerous advisors in suits engaged in discussions on various diplomatic matters. Yet, Katyusha paid them little heed. She already possessed intricate knowledge of each topic, perhaps more than the advisors themselves.
Eventually, she stood before a grand golden door, embellished with imperial designs and guarded by national sentinels. Upon her request to enter, they granted her access without hesitation. Their movements in opening the door were precise, almost mechanical, yet executed with the grace and grandeur of robots devotedly performing their duty.
Once the door was fully opened, Katyusha stepped into the golden, sumptuous hall, performing an Arghatian military salute by placing her left fist over her heart and her right hand on her left temple. The door closed behind her, allowing her to speak with the president.
"Good evening, Milityasha. May I enter?
"Of course, why would I forbid you?"
The room always captivated Katyusha with its solemn ambiance, where the cleanliness and opulence of the golden walls and jewel-incrusted lampposts blended enchantingly. Milityasha, draped in her impeccable white military uniform, sat gracefully on a harmonious chair, her elbows elegantly resting on her desk. Her hands were crossed, supporting her head above them, lost in the enchanting melodies of Arghatian folk music playing from a vintage vinyl.
Katyusha knelt on the ground, bowing to her interlocutor.
"Milityasha, I have information of great importance to convey to you… Would you like me to share it?"
"I'm all ears..."
Shortly after giving her agreement, Katyusha took the time to meticulously scrutinize all the information provided by Vosk, focusing primarily on the details about the sect of reverse magic. Once she had exhausted the few pieces of information available, a heavy silence set in. Contrary to expectations, Milityasha made no verbal comment nor showed any expression on her face, except for a slight corner smile. Instead, she remained seated, immersed in her music, visibly relaxed.
Over the years, Katyusha had managed to discern the president's personality, but this enigmatic attitude created a certain unease. She seemed troubled by the uncertainty of not knowing whether she had revealed too much or not enough information.
"Madam President?" Katyusha ventured.
Again, there was no response from her, only the piano and mandolin harmonizing with the singer's voice.
Milityasha finally opened her eyes, revealing a flash of sagacity in her gaze. She straightened up, her hands gliding along the edge of the desk.
"Do you know this song, Katyusha?"
"Yes… it's… the 'Star Waltz' performed by Belian, if I'm not mistaken."
Milityasha sighed lightly, rising from her seat to walk towards the large window overlooking the illuminated capital.
"Exactly. Belian performed this music in the 5th century during the World War for his wife who stayed at home while he went to war… it reminded him of the good times they had together."
She contemplated her hand, her expression still calm and resolute.
"He served Argha like no one else would, to the extent that even I would not be able to rival him. While he fights on the front against dragons and the coalition to protect his nation, I just use my brain to expand it. Deep down, I wonder who the true patriot is between him and me."
Katyusha, still kneeling, looked up at Milityasha, her eyes a mix of incomprehension and determination.
"This music reminds me how each individual is different in their way of serving the motherland. Some fight, protest, work, lead… but in the end, we are all united by this desire to defend our values and ideals, whatever the cost. And that is particularly what I appreciate in this music."
Milityasha turned towards her, a subtle but confident smile forming on her face.
"Coming back to what you told me… reverse magic is powerful, yes… But I will always say it as many times as necessary, magic does not compete with technology and our military arsenal. We have the means to counter magic, so there is no need to worry about it… even though I understand that our citizens have every reason to."
"Yes, I know… But what do we do then?"
With discreet subtlety, Katyusha glanced briefly at the wall, where hung the portrait of a man with a face framed by long black hair, emanating an imperious aura. His blue eyes conveyed both authority and respect, imparting to the viewer an insatiable ambition for power.
After a short pause, Milityasha replied assuredly:
"Well, it's a delicate situation… Abaguo has started the Demonic Rebellion, and the demons will do everything to reach their transcendental stage. That, plus the return of this sect, can only end badly… Nevertheless, there is a solution that we, humans, have to eliminate the evil at its source."
"What is this solution you're talking about?"
A silence fell when she asked for more details. As soon as these words reached her ears, Milityasha delicately rolled up her sleeves while contemplating the portrait of the man.
"This solution has often been used by the ancient leaders of Argha, whether by Maximilien Bonaparvitch with the whole world or even Anton Ivanov with Bergthal."
A sense of apprehension emerged in Katyusha, for she, more than anyone, knew what this statement implied.
"Don't tell me you want to…"
"Yes, if it's the only solution to eradicate these monsters from Hell and this sect, I will do it."
"You want to wage war against the sect and the demons?"