December 23rd, 1939 – Volkshalle, Valoria
The air in Alexander's private chambers was heavy with tension as he reviewed the latest reports from Ruthenia. The flames in the fireplace crackled softly, casting flickering shadows on the walls. A map of Eastern Europe lay unfurled on the table before him, Ruthenia marked with red annotations—supply routes, troop deployments, and key revolutionary strongholds.
Julieanne Kyle entered the room, carrying a fresh dossier. Her steps were brisk, her demeanor sharp. "Your Excellency, the Ruthenian Embassy has responded."
Alexander looked up, his masked face unreadable. "And?"
She placed the dossier in front of him. "They have officially acknowledged our concerns but insist that Johannes Krieg remains under lawful detention. They claim he is being treated fairly and will face a thorough investigation before any decision on his release is made."
