Note: This work is entirely fictional and belongs to the Alternate History genre, utilizing historical characters and events in a fictional context. All content is a product of imagination and does not reflect reality or any political or military stance.

The story contains sensitive elements such as violence, large-scale warfare, tense political conflicts, and alternative historical depictions. It is not suitable for readers under 16 years of age or those who may be psychologically affected.
Continuing to read implies acceptance of all controversial elements within the work.

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7:00 PM, January 9, 2021/4017, Fourth Era.

Following the surprise attack by the Papaldia Empire—72 hours later, renowned news outlets such as TASS, Channel One, and Russian-24 have been continuously updating information on the developments of the battle.

Night envelops Moscow, but in the studio, the lights from hundreds of cameras shine brightly. The host, dressed in a sharp suit, with a cold yet sharp expression, sits solemnly before a large screen, behind which are images from the battlefield thousands of miles away.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he begins, his deep voice resonating in the stillness, "the entire nation is witnessing unprecedented images today. We will recount a battle that not only determines the fate of the soldiers who have fallen on distant battlefields but also leaves a new historical mark on this world."

The images shift, from a Russian military base on the border to the smoke-filled fields of the most recent battle. The tragic scene of the Papaldia battlefield unfolds, with the bodies of imperial soldiers strewn across the ground, weapons scattered around. The host's voice seems heavier, slowly narrating:

"On that fateful morning, the legendary Mi-24 helicopters of the Russian army roared through the sky, diving into the fray like predatory beasts. On the ground, thousands of Papaldia soldiers, armed with muskets and sorcery, had lined up, ready to strike. They believed they could break through our fragile defenses. They were mistaken.

The Papaldia soldiers—warriors from another world, wielding powerful magic—launched their initial assaults, targeting the Mi-24 helicopters in an attempt to crush Russia's technological might. Magic flared, fiery tendrils twisting through the sky. But no matter how powerful their magic, the enemy could not anticipate the strength of the Mi-24. Our modern weaponry, with its deadly precision, felled each Papaldia unit on the battlefield.

With a continuous barrage, the air force from Base 201 swept away the enemy formations. Fighter jets flew low, diving like eagles straight into their targets, conducting airstrikes with brutal accuracy. Each Papaldia vessel ignited, smoke spiraling into towering columns before exploding. Before our eyes, the imperial fleet of Papaldia—their pride—was reduced to shattered remnants, sinking into the depths of the sea."

On the screen, the images continue to change. From the air, the camera sweeps over the desolate battlefield. The wreckage of Papaldia ships lies in ruins, flames still smoldering on the water. The bodies of their soldiers are scattered everywhere, mingled with debris and dust. The host continues, his eyes seemingly piercing into the screen:

"But, dear viewers, although victory belongs to us, no glory comes without loss. Seven hundred brave warriors faced an enemy that was too numerous and too ruthless. They fought to the last drop of blood, standing firm against the fury of thousands of Papaldia soldiers, and although they ultimately achieved victory, the toll was unavoidable. The bodies of our brothers—those who sacrificed themselves to uphold the freedom and sovereignty of our nation—now lie on the very land they defended."

Images of fallen Russian soldiers appear, their comrades pulling bodies from the battlefield, bandaging the wounds of the survivors. Faces smeared with dirt, eyes still shining with resilience despite the haunting sorrow.

"Immediately after the battle," the host continues, "military forces from Tajikistan rushed to assist. They took over the conflict zone, aiding the wounded soldiers and transporting them to field hospitals. But it's not just the wounds on their bodies; many of them bear scars within—knowing their comrades will never return."

The host's voice softens, then he continues with a deeper insight into the international political situation:

"With this heavy defeat, the Papaldia Empire has paid a steep price. Their losses are estimated in the thousands, both at sea and on land. However, the consequences of this battle extend beyond mere casualty figures. The entire world is now looking at Russia, with a significant question: Does this victory mark a turning point in our confrontation with the alien world?

Those who stood on the sidelines, nations that previously observed quietly, will now have to reconsider. Russia has not only demonstrated superior military strength but also our unwavering determination to protect our territory and sovereignty, regardless of where the enemy comes from."

The lights in the studio gradually shift from bright to a more somber hue, as if to honor the sacrifice of those who have fallen.

"We, the reporters, can only stand from afar to narrate this battle. But for the soldiers out there—those who truly fought and bled—they are the real heroes. They have written a new chapter in Russia's history, and we will never forget."

As the lights in the studio begin to dim, the video transitions to footage from the final moments of the battle. Beneath the thick smoke, Russian soldiers continue to fight, defending the freedom of their homeland. Yet the story does not end with victories on the battlefield.

The host's voice resonates once more, gentle yet heavy with gravity:

"And while we reflect on the triumph of the Russian army on the Papaldia front, another equally significant story unfolds elsewhere, where the sacrifice of one individual has shaken the entire nation. Ladies and gentlemen, the latest information from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicates that one of our key diplomats, Nikita—who accompanied Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on a recent diplomatic mission to the Papaldia Empire—was brutally assassinated during negotiations."

The screen shifts from the battlefield to a dimly lit office within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A blurred image of the slain Russian diplomat appears, alongside confidential documents and crucial agreements he was negotiating with Papaldia officials. The host continues with a tone laden with sorrow:

"He, one of the prominent figures in Russia's foreign policy, was killed while attempting to persuade Papaldia's leaders to accept a fairer agreement, rather than a treaty he deemed unjust to our nation. According to sources, he strongly opposed the terms demanded by Papaldia, particularly regarding trade control and taxation rights over Russian goods, which he considered unacceptable."

"Initial reports suggest," the host continues, "that this diplomat, in a courageous and responsible act, refused to sign the treaty. He believed it was an affront to Russia's sovereignty and dignity. Yet, just a day later, Papaldia's security agency announced that he had been killed in an unexplained attack. All efforts to clarify the incident have been obstructed, and for now, we can only rely on what has been reported through international media."

The footage transitions to urgent meetings within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where Russian officials are discussing the situation. An image of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov appears, his expression tense and resolute.

"We have reached out to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further information, but thus far, the Papaldia government has not provided any explanation for the death of such a significant diplomatic figure. The Russian government has strongly condemned this act, viewing it as a serious provocation against the relations between our two nations, and has asserted that there will be repercussions if necessary."

The host's voice slows, as if sensing the tension in the air. "As we all know, the trade agreement between the Papaldia Empire and the Russian Federation, which this diplomat refused to sign, is not merely a simple agreement. It threatens to alter the entire balance of power and economic interests in the region. Will his death serve as a warning from Papaldia to those who dare to oppose their demands?"

The screen shifts again, showcasing images of domestic protests, with Russian flags waving high and slogans demanding justice for the slain diplomat. The crowd chants: "We demand justice!" and "No forgiveness for Papaldia!"

"Once again, we face a crucial choice: how to respond to Papaldia's actions? While the battle is not yet over, the political and military situation will not only depend on victories on the battlefield but also on how Russia addresses these political provocations. One of the greatest decisions we must confront is how to uphold honor and fairness in international relations."

The host pauses, gazing into the camera as if conveying a message to the audience: "With the death of a diplomat, a part of Russia's soul has departed, but alongside it is a reminder that war does not only occur on the battlefield; it also unfolds in meeting rooms, in negotiations, and in the hearts of those who dare to stand up for their nation's dignity."

...

In her hotel room, Seraphina has been watching the news reports—all focused on the battle that took place in a country called Tajikistan—a nation primarily characterized by its mountainous terrain, a landscape not conducive to trade development, yet still holding potential if sufficiently invested in. There are also four other countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—all of which are part of the region known as Central Asia—a region that, in their old world, was landlocked.

This explains why these countries are so underdeveloped compared to Russia and some other nations in the area, but most of them maintain close ties with Russia—having once been part of a larger entity known as the Soviet Socialist Republic or the Soviet Union. This was a country larger than Russia and far stronger in every aspect, but it was dissolved nearly 30 years ago by a man named Gorbachev—who was the president of that now-defunct nation.

To put it simply, it resembles many countries that strive to maintain their national image over their internal issues, which can be seen as a failure in the governance of a nation. However, she would not blame what happened in the past but would only look at the present, examining whether any lessons had been learned from those events. It seems that after all this time, Russia has managed to rectify most of its inherent issues and is now developing on its own.

Over the past period , she has researched extensively about Russia and the old world. In the old world, Russia was not a particularly strong force on conventional battlefields but has always been a counterbalance in political matters, with the so-called Western world being a constant adversary, fraught with conflicts throughout history.

Currently, she is conversing with her grandfather—Pope Pax Maximilianus Blaze. The discussion primarily revolves around why she hasn't returned, and she explains that she has traveled to Russia and established diplomatic relations with them, inadvertently witnessing the invasion by the Papaldia Empire and their subsequent defeat at the hands of the Russian and Tajikistani forces. Notably, the disparity in military strength was stark, with Papaldia suffering the most significant losses.

A massive force aimed at conquering a large nation in the region was decimated by just a few hundred soldiers, with some reinforcements later counterattacking. This was a heavy and humiliating defeat for a superpower, one that would likely lead to ridicule from other nations for failing against a "less civilized" country, severely damaging Papaldia's reputation.

"... and that is what happened?" the Pope inquires, seeking confirmation.

"Yes, that is exactly what transpired," Seraphina replies, her tone filled with regret. "I know that venturing into an unexplored nation is very dangerous, but I was too curious... But everything is fine now; we can increase our influence all the way here."

Pax sighs on the other end, unsure how to respond. "You have certainly increased the workload for many, and this will make God reconsider you," he says sternly. "You should think carefully before acting, especially regarding political matters."

"I know," she pouts. "But Russia wants deeper cooperation with us; if handled properly, we could gain many benefits from this nation."

"I will consider it and discuss it with the cardinals," Pax pauses before continuing. "You, on the other hand, should continue reporting the situation there and keep a close eye on Russia's movements; we will find a way to respond."

"What about Papaldia?" she asks curiously.

"We will see how God judges them," he replies. "Many events that seem to be the will of a person are, in fact, orchestrated by God. We will observe whether, after hundreds of years, Papaldia will continue to develop or enter a phase of collapse."

The Pope sighs once more. "Remember to take care of yourself and continue your work."

"I understand," she responds, then pauses. The conversation has lasted two hours, and she is quite hungry; earlier, she had asked Willer to bring her food and give her some privacy.

She relaxes, looking at the device the Russians call a tablet—a multifunctional gadget that has proven very useful, allowing her to gather essential information about Russia and the Central Asian countries. The creativity of the Russians is vast, with many applications that, according to her, have greatly aided her research. Yandex—a versatile application—has been particularly helpful, though she primarily uses it for searching.

While it is very useful, there are some inconveniences in its usage.

The input methods can be cumbersome, and the Russian language itself is surprisingly easy to listen to. According to the politicians who have met with her, Russian shares many similarities in pronunciation and vocabulary with a common language, or one might say that Russian and the common tongue bear an uncanny resemblance, much like two unrelated individuals who appear to be cast from the same mold.

Aside from that, there are many other applications that help her understand the level of advancement in Russia and the mindset of its people, leaving her utterly amazed by the other cities. It is quite challenging to maintain connectivity with a vast number of cities over such distances without hindering development. Indeed, there is still much for her to learn about Russia. This is why she must continuously expand her knowledge about the country, which has led her to spend more time with the tablet than on other activities, but it is worth it to gain more valuable insights.

...

The Kremlin.

President Putin sits in a meeting room at the Kremlin, alongside ministers and senior officials, watching the morning news. Images of the battle in Papaldia appear on the screen, along with information about the death of the Russian diplomat. He feels satisfied to see that this event has generated a strong wave of support domestically.

"Comrades," he begins, his voice deep yet authoritative. "We are witnessing a significant turning point in our relationship with Papaldia. Their act of aggression is not merely a military attack but a serious provocation against our sovereignty. We must respond decisively."

A minister stands up, nodding in agreement. "Mr. President, Papaldia's recent defeat has shown that they are not a formidable opponent. This is an opportunity for us to assert our strength and establish a more solid position in the region."

"Indeed," Putin continues. "However, we must act wisely. This is not just a military conflict; it is also a political battle. We need to send a clear message that any provocative actions from Papaldia will come at a cost."

He emphasizes, his cold gaze sweeping across the officials in the room. "Remember, in this world, we cannot rely on conventional notions. We—those who have endured years of victories and defeats—will not yield to this world. If they wish to play, we will play by their rules!"

An economic official speaks up: "However, Mr. President, we cannot overlook the economic potential of Papaldia. They possess rich resources and a youthful population. If we handle this carefully, we could transform them into a trade partner rather than an enemy."

"That is absolutely correct," Putin agrees. "But for now, national security must take precedence. We need to prepare for a military campaign not only to eliminate Papaldia's forces but also to project a powerful image of Russia on the international stage."

A military general stands, asserting: "We must deploy our military strategically, utilizing modern technology to ensure victory. If we can defeat them once more, Papaldia will lose its capacity to resist and will have to accept our terms."

The President nods, pleased with the consensus in the room. "Then let's get to work on preparations. We cannot let this opportunity slip away. Papaldia must understand that they cannot underestimate Russia's strength. Let's begin immediately."

He looks directly at each person in the room, conveying a strong message. "We will not only defend our territory but also assert Russia's position on the international stage. That is our mission, and we will carry it out resolutely."

The meeting continues with specific plans being laid out, as a tense yet determined atmosphere permeates the room. Russia is gearing up for a conflict that will not only protect its homeland but also affirm its power and potential in the complex landscape of international politics.