The crisp winter air lingered in the capital of Valoria as the day of departure finally arrived. The city of Volkshalle was abuzz with anticipation. Streets were lined with flags bearing the Valorian crest, fluttering in the cool breeze. The sun had just begun to rise, casting a pale light over the city, making the metallic edges of its modern skyscrapers gleam with pride.
This was a nation built from Alexander's vision—a country transformed from exile into a powerful force.
Inside the grand palace of Volkshalle, Alexander stood in front of a wide, ornate mirror, adjusting his high-collared military coat. His reflection, though stern, betrayed a subtle satisfaction. This journey was not just another diplomatic mission—it was a return. A long-overdue reckoning with the father who had cast him out.
Julieanne entered the room silently, dressed in a simple but elegant navy coat that matched the diplomatic tone of the trip. She glanced at Alexander as he straightened the last button of his uniform and cleared her throat to announce her presence.
"Your Excellency, the preparations are complete," she said, her voice calm and composed as always. "Your speech will be broadcast live across Valoria in five minutes. The convoy is ready to depart once you've finished."
Alexander met her gaze in the mirror, his expression unreadable for a brief moment. Then, with a nod, he turned to face her directly.
"Thank you, Julieanne. Let's make sure everything runs smoothly today," he said, his voice carrying an air of command that left no room for doubt.
***
Staff members hurried past, making last-minute adjustments to the live broadcast equipment, while guards in dark uniforms stood at attention along the hallway. Their faces were stoic, but there was no denying the significance of what was about to unfold.
At the end of the hallway, the double doors opened to reveal the great dome of Volkshalle, the grandest structure in Valoria, thousands of citizens filled the space, waiting with bated breath.
Alexander walked toward the podium, his gaze unwavering as he took in the sight of the crowds before him.
Julieanne stepped aside as Alexander positioned himself at the podium, the microphones picking up the low hum of the waiting crowd. The cameras zoomed in, broadcasting his image live to every corner of the country. Silence fell over the city as everyone waited for their Supreme Leader to speak.
Alexander took a breath, then began.
"People of Valoria," he started. "Today marks a significant moment in our nation's history. We stand at the crossroads of a new era, where Valoria will no longer be in isolation. It will make itself known to the world," Alexander continued, his voice growing stronger with each word. "Valoria will no longer stand in the shadows of other nations.
Today, we begin the next phase of our rise—a rise that will see us become a dominant force in the world, politically, economically, and militarily."
The crowd stood in rapt attention, their eyes locked on their leader, hanging on every word. Alexander's presence commanded the room, and the silence in the dome was a testament to the weight of the moment. Even those watching from their homes could feel the significance of this speech.
Alexander gave a brief nod of acknowledgment. "Good. Let's move out."
Without further delay, he climbed into the lead vehicle, followed closely by Julieanne. Everglade joined the security detail in the following car, his eyes constantly surveying the streets as they began their journey.
The convoy moved smoothly through the bustling streets of Volkshalle, flanked by cheering citizens on either side. Flags waved, and shouts of encouragement filled the air.
Inside the vehicle, Alexander sat in silence, his eyes fixed on the horizon. Though he remained calm and composed, his mind was already shifting to the meeting that awaited him in Berlint. The Emperor of Triesenberg was a formidable opponent—cunning, experienced, and deeply entrenched in the old ways of global power. But Alexander was ready for the meeting as he knew who he was facing against.
Julieanne, sensing his focus, remained quiet as well, glancing occasionally at the updates on her clipboard. Everything was proceeding as planned, and soon they would be airborne.
As the convoy approached the airport, the sleek Valorian aircraft came into view.
Captain Everglade opened the car door as they arrived at the private terminal. "Your Excellency, the plane is ready for departure. We've secured clearance for the flight path, and the Triesenberg authorities have confirmed landing arrangements."
Alexander stepped out of the car, his coat billowing slightly in the cold breeze. He took a moment to survey the aircraft before turning to Everglade.
"Ensure everything remains secure throughout the flight. I want no interruptions," Alexander ordered.
"Understood, Your Excellency," Everglade replied, giving a final salute before moving to oversee the final security checks.
Julieanne followed closely as they ascended the steps to the aircraft, the roar of the engines growing louder. Inside, the interior was sleek and minimalist, designed for efficiency and comfort. Alexander settled into his seat near the front while Julieanne took a seat across from him.
"Your Excellency, we will be in the air shortly. The flight to Berlint is expected to take approximately eighteen hours. I've also received confirmation that the Emperor's representatives will meet us upon landing."
Alexander nodded at Julieanne's words, his gaze fixed ahead. As the aircraft's engines roared to life, the aircraft began its slow taxi toward the runway.
As the aircraft picked up speed, racing down the runway, Alexander leaned back in his seat, watching as the city grew smaller beneath them.
Hours passed as the aircraft soared over continents. The cabin remained quiet, save for the occasional exchange between Julieanne and the diplomatic staff seated nearby. Alexander, however, was deep in thought, reviewing strategies in his mind for the upcoming meeting. He'd meet his father, brothers, and sisters. After all, he wouldn't want to ruin the occasion by getting personal.
So he has to be strategic.