Chapter 4: I Came Back to Life

Kazan City Castle

The Kazan Castle is an imposing and ancient structure, the first known settlement in the country. Built by the third Emperor Kazan, it has served as the residence of the city's president and the government's operations center. Its stone walls have witnessed countless state meetings, military strategies, and political decisions that have shaped the region's history.

However, today the atmosphere is different. The castle is in chaos. In the hallways, ministers and government officials walk hurriedly, whispering with concern.

Office of the City President

Secretary Chloe: "Madam President, the readings indicate that the earthquake's epicenter was in the city of Rudeus, bordering the northern volcano called Lincoln. It was a microearthquake measuring 3.0 on the Richter scale, but strangely, it generated a shockwave that reached other cities, with ours being one of the most affected. We are awaiting your orders."

While reading the report, Secretary Chloe couldn't help but notice the person in front of her. Although she saw her boss daily, today she looked extremely exhausted. However, this did not diminish President Alicia's beauty. Dressed in a dark green military uniform, she exuded both authority and grace, a testament to the fact that she held her position due to her skills, not just her appearance.

City President, Alicia: "Mmm..."

After several minutes of staring out her office window, she couldn't help but let out a satisfied look. She had been in power for nearly 20 years, and while she did not like to boast about her work, the quality of life in the city had improved significantly. Under normal circumstances, the view would have brought her satisfaction. But now, she frowned. Something felt off. It was a gut feeling that had never failed her—except maybe once.

Pushing that thought aside, she turned to her secretary, a middle-aged European woman with green eyes and blonde hair. Beautiful, yet now bearing a worried expression, considering that in over 500 years, no earthquake had occurred—let alone one so peculiar.

Alicia: "Chloe, activate Code Orange. The military must be prepared to mobilize all necessary resources. Also, cancel classes in schools and order that workers, teachers, and non-essential personnel stay home to prepare for the worst."

Secretary Chloe hesitated for a moment, thinking it might be a rash decision. But after working with President Alicia for over 20 years, she knew her better than anyone. This situation could worsen.

Chloe: "Very well, ma'am. However, the other cities have only activated Code Yellow... And, well, we all know about the relationship between you and your sister."

Alicia sighed. "Fine, Chloe. Activate it. I have a feeling something will happen. If nothing does, the worst that will come of it is arguing with my sister over next year's budget. That miserly woman..."

Chloe: "Understood, ma'am. By the way, should I inform your daughter about the situation?"

Alicia: "No, leave her alone. She can take care of herself. Besides, at this hour, she should be at the university... and with her, maybe that boy."

Chloe: "As you wish, ma'am. Excuse me."

Just then, Secretary Beatrice entered the office. She was a frail-looking woman who stuttered when speaking and was very shy, but beneath that exterior lay a noble character and unparalleled beauty.

Beatrice: "Madam, the top officials are already gathered."

Alicia: "Very well, lead me to the conference room."

Conference Room

Seated around the large oval table in the conference room were the most powerful leaders of the nation... or at least their projections.

Each individual at the table was not physically present. They were high-fidelity holograms projected from different cities. Despite the distance, the technology allowed their expressions, gestures, and tones of voice to be transmitted with absolute clarity, making it seem as if they were actually there.

At the head of the table, with a serious expression, sat the projection of the Nation's President, George Parker. An elderly man, 65 years old, with a neatly trimmed white mustache and beard, short-cropped hair, and dressed in an elegant white suit. He exuded wisdom and a serene composure, capable of facing any situation with unwavering calm.

President Parker: "I need an immediate report."

One of the advisors spoke up.

Advisor: "Mr. President, at exactly 10:20 AM, an earthquake occurred with its epicenter between the city of Rudeus and the Lincoln volcano."

George Parker frowned.

Parker: "Mmm... That's strange. It has been over 500 years since an earthquake occurred in this country. Despite being surrounded by volcanoes, they have been inactive for almost a century. This situation is critical. Are the volcanoes showing signs of eruption or activation?"

Defense Secretary: "Yes, sir. As of a few minutes ago, the northern volcano was the first to show activity, though minor. The city has activated Code Yellow. However, the southern, eastern, and western volcanoes have also begun displaying volcanic activity. Each city has initiated its respective contingency plans."

President Parker pondered the situation. What had caused this? Was it a natural phenomenon, or was it man-made?

Parker: "This is critical. Has it been determined what could have triggered the volcanoes?"

Advisor: "We don't know for certain, sir. So far, we only have seismic records. We need a thorough investigation to determine the cause and assess the possibility of aftershocks."

President Parker paused for a few seconds before speaking.

Parker: "Fine. First, I need every city to maintain calm. We will form a research team consisting of archaeologists, seismologists, and climate experts to find answers."

Everyone in the room responded in unison: "Understood, sir!"

Just then, a second earthquake began.

Sirens blared across all cities.

Chief Advisor: "Mr. President, this earthquake occurred between the southern city of Malcolm and the Arias volcano."

President Parker sighed. "It seems we don't have much time. Each city leader will have full autonomy to act according to their circumstances. Our priority is to prevent a catastrophe."

He looked at the holograms of each city leader: Alicia, Miranda, Michael, and Brenda.

Parker: "Alicia, Brenda, what measures have you taken?"

Alicia responded firmly:

Alicia: "I activated Code Orange. The military and seismologists are investigating the cause."

President Parker couldn't help but smile. As expected of his daughter—attentive, quick, and efficient.

Brenda, leader of Kyoto, replied with indifference:

Brenda: "I only activated Code Yellow. I don't think the situation is that alarming."

Parker frowned in irritation. How could she not see the urgency of an entire country being covered in lava? As he looked at her, he couldn't help but think of her father, the leader of the northern army—just as foolish and naive.

Sensing the tension between the two, Parker intervened.

Parker: "I want a detailed report this afternoon. Additionally, we must monitor our borders. Neighboring countries may try to take advantage of the situation." He said this while glancing at Raymond, the northern leader, and Kayle, the leader of the southern army and a veteran of the Mushroom War.

"Understood, sir!" they all responded.

The holograms began to fade, leaving the room empty.