The once prosperous Eastern European country of Pontia is in deep crisis. Corruption and banditry have spread to all levels of society. The authorities are powerless to stop the chaos and anarchy. The country was mired in the abyss of political disagreements and intrigues. Against this background, the Pontine resort of Kranzberg is hosting an important international conference that could ensure the country’s participation in a global integration project - the construction of a transport corridor from China to Europe. However, the future event is overshadowed by tragic events: three minor girls were kidnapped by unknown people. To unravel this mysterious case, the best detective of the Republic, Ksenia Avalova, comes to Kranzberg from the capital. Will she be able to find the mysterious culprit and foil the perfectly prepared plan? The first book in the Covert Netherworld series.