Two days after the departure of Prince Theodore, they arrived at the capital city airport in Triesenberg, Berlint.
Upon the plane's landing, there were already hundreds of journalists and reporters on the scene. Theodore didn't know why they had gathered in such numbers, as there was no special occasion planned. His mission to Valoria had been kept secret, known only to a select few. The public and media weren't even aware of his reasons for leaving the country.
As the jet came to a halt, Theodore exchanged a puzzled glance with Lord Reginald, who sat across from him in the cabin.
"Do you think word got out?" Theodore asked, frowning as he peeked out the window at the crowd below. "I thought we kept this mission under wraps."
Reginald shook his head, equally perplexed. "We were meticulous in maintaining discretion, Your Highness. I have no idea why they're here in such numbers."
The plane door opened, and the crisp air of Berlint greeted them. A royal attendant motioned for Theodore and his delegation to disembark. As he stepped out onto the stairs, flashes from camera shutters bombarded him from every angle, the crowd of reporters shouting questions in a frenzy.
Theodore descended the steps with his usual composed demeanor, but his mind raced, trying to make sense of the situation. He reached the bottom of the stairs, where a familiar face awaited him: his father's personal advisor, Lord Dietrich.
"Your Highness," Dietrich greeted him with a slight bow, his expression unreadable as always.
"Lord Dietrich," Theodore replied with a nod. "What's all this about? I wasn't expecting such a reception."
"Ahh... don't worry about this. They don't know anything. They are just here because they were surprised by your sudden absence, Your Highness," Lord Dietrich replied, his voice calm but with a hint of amusement. "Rumors spread quickly in Berlint, especially when the Crown Prince leaves without much explanation."
Theodore glanced over at the mass of reporters, their voices blending into a chaotic chorus of questions as they eagerly pushed forward. "So, it's curiosity that's brought them here?"
"That's it. They don't know everything. Just tell them you were on your personal trip in one of our colonies. After that, you head straight to the Royal Palace of Triesenberg, where your father awaits your report," Lord Dietrich finished.
Theodore shook his head, his gaze still fixed on the passing scenery. "Not everything. I'll tell him about the alliance and the benefits it will bring. But as for the masked leader and my suspicions—no, not yet. I need more information before I make any accusations."
Reginald nodded in agreement. "Wise. We don't want to alarm the King without concrete evidence."
***
Thirty minutes later, they arrived at the Royal Palace of Triesenberg. Theodore squared his shoulders as he stepped out of the car. Lord Reginald followed close behind as they made their way through the ornate halls of the palace.
The grand doors to the emperor's office loomed ahead, two palace attendants opening them as Theodore approached. Inside, seated behind a large oak desk adorned with documents and state papers, was Emperor Triesenberg.
"Father," Theodore greeted him, offering a respectful nod. "I've returned from my trip."
The emperor stood, his presence commanding the room. "Theodore," he said, his deep voice carrying both warmth and authority. "I trust your mission was successful?"
"It was," Theodore replied, keeping his tone neutral. "The alliance with Valoria has been formalized. The groundwork for our economic cooperation has been laid, and they seem eager to follow through on their commitments."
The emperor motioned for Theodore to take a seat across from him. "Good. How are they?"
"They are like us superpowers, They have modernized the economy and military, as much as I hate to admit."
"Hmm...very well. That's all. We will figure out our next move in due time, For now you rest."
"I will, father."