The cold winds of Volkshalle howled through the towering spires of Valoria's grand capitol as Julieanne approached the Supreme Leader's chambers. The weight of her mission bore heavily on her shoulders. She had spent the last two weeks meticulously collecting reports on Ruthenia's escalating crackdown. Now, she had to deliver the grim news to Alexander, who had bet much of his vision for a continent-wide revolution on the success of the Ruthenian uprising.
Julieanne entered the vast chamber, where Alexander stood facing a massive map of Europe. His high-collared military coat and the faint glow of the fireplace behind him gave him the appearance of a statue carved from cold steel. He did not turn as Julieanne approached.
"Speak," Alexander commanded, his voice sharp but calm.
