Reincarnated with a Country Creation System

Chapter 187 The Demand of Valoria

Alexander sat at his desk, his fingers steepled as he reviewed the latest updates on the situation in Ruthenia. The air in the chamber was heavy with tension as Julieanne entered briskly, holding a folder in her hand. She paused a moment before speaking, her voice steady but with a sense of urgency.

"Your Excellency, I have troubling news. Johannes Krieg has been captured by the Ruthenian authorities."

Alexander's masked face turned toward her, his posture stiffening. "Captured? When?"

"Two nights ago, in St. Petersburg," Julieanne replied. "He was detained by the Tsar's state police while attempting to relocate with the revolutionaries. They suspect him of espionage."

Alexander leaned forward, his tone sharper now. "Johannes is one of our best operatives. He carries sensitive information—details that cannot fall into the hands of the Ruthenians. If they extract even a fraction of what he knows, it could compromise our entire strategy."

Julieanne nodded. "That is precisely why I brought this to you immediately. We must act swiftly. The longer he remains in their custody, the greater the risk."

Alexander was silent for a moment, his gloved fingers tapping rhythmically on the desk. Then he spoke, his voice calm but decisive. "Contact the Ruthenian embassy. Summon their ambassador to Volkshalle. I want this matter addressed directly."

Julieanne hesitated. "Do you intend to demand his release outright, Your Excellency? The Ruthenians may view such a move as an admission of his affiliation with Valoria."

Alexander shook his head slightly. "We will not show our hand so openly. Officially, Johannes is a Valorian journalist, wrongfully detained while reporting on the revolution. That is the position we will take, and the ambassador will be made to understand the consequences of any mistreatment."

Julieanne made a quick note in her notebook. "I will arrange the meeting immediately. The ambassador can be brought here by this evening."

Morozov hesitated, then gave a slow nod. "I will relay your concerns to the Tsar's government. However, I must warn you that Ruthenia's state police operate independently. Their decisions are not easily overturned."

Alexander's mask tilted slightly, giving the impression of a sharp, penetrating gaze. "Ambassador, I suggest you make it clear to your superiors that the continued detention of Johannes Krieg will have serious consequences. Valoria is watching Ruthenia closely, and our patience is not limitless."

Morozov rose to his feet, bowing slightly. "I will convey your message, Your Excellency. I trust that this matter can be resolved amicably."

As the ambassador was escorted out, Julieanne stepped into the room. "Do you think he will act, Your Excellency?"

Alexander stood, his voice measured. "He will convey the message, but whether the Tsar's government listens is another matter. Prepare for alternative measures. If Johannes cannot be freed diplomatically, we may need to resort to other means."

Julieanne nodded, already making notes. "I'll ensure our teams are ready."

Alexander turned back to his desk, his gaze fixed on the map of Ruthenia. "Johannes Krieg is a valuable asset. Losing him is not an option. Whatever it takes, we will bring him back."

***

Ambassador Morozov returned to the Ruthenian Embassy in the quiet hours of the evening. The heavy iron gates clanged shut behind his carriage as he stepped into the warmly lit foyer. The embassy staff greeted him with reserved nods, sensing the tension in his demeanor. Without pause, Morozov retreated to his private office, where he dictated an urgent message to be sent via secure channels to the Winter Palace.

The ambassador's fingers trembled slightly as he composed the telegram. The conversation with the masked leader had left him shaken. Valoria's Supreme Leader had been polite but unyielding, his veiled threats lingering in Morozov's mind. He knew the Tsar would not react kindly to the situation, but he also understood the delicate balance of power Ruthenia now faced. They were defeated in war by the Valorians, and a war could spark again if they made one wrong move.