On December 24, 1938, the city of Valoria was alive with the promise of celebration. A fresh blanket of snow had fallen overnight, covering the capital's rooftops, cobblestone streets, and grand plazas with a pristine, glistening layer. The early morning sunlight cast a soft glow on the towering spires of Volkshalle, which loomed over the city as a symbol of strength and unity.
Today, however, the imposing structure was adorned with garlands of evergreen and banners in the royal crimson and gold, signaling a shift from its usual austere presence to one that embraced the spirit of the season.
Inside the palace, Alexander reviewed reports in his private study, his eyes moving quickly over the lines of text. The work was never-ending, even during holidays, but today held a different purpose. He set down the last report with a satisfied nod. Valoria's ministries were performing efficiently, ensuring that the machinery of the state ran smoothly and without interruption.
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.
"Enter," Alexander said, his voice carrying through the quiet room.
Julieanne stepped inside, her presence a blend of professionalism and a rare, subtle warmth. In her hands, she held a small stack of documents bound with a crimson ribbon. "Your Excellency, the preparations for tonight's Christmas celebration are complete," she said. "The people are already gathering in the city square for the lighting ceremony."
Alexander's expression softened, a sign of approval. "Good. Tonight, Valoria will stand not only as a bastion of strength but as a community that values unity and joy. We must remind our citizens of what we protect."
"Yes, Your Excellency," Julieanne replied, a hint of a smile touching her lips. "Shall I inform Minister Taylor that your speech is prepared?"
Alexander nodded. "Ensure the broadcast is seamless. This message must reach every household."
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows over the city, the square outside Volkshalle became a hub of excitement. Families gathered, bundled in thick coats and scarves, their faces flushed with cold and anticipation. Children played in the snow, their laughter ringing through the crisp air, while vendors sold roasted chestnuts and warm cider from carts decorated with holly.
At the heart of the square stood a colossal fir tree, its branches adorned with strings of polished glass baubles and silver ribbons that caught the flickering light of the lanterns. Workers moved quickly to set up the final touches—candles that would be lit at the climax of the ceremony, casting a soft glow over the crowd.
Inside the palace, the grand hall was transformed into a scene of elegance and celebration. Tables were set with dishes that represented the season—roasted meats, spiced fruit cakes, candied nuts, and mulled wine. Military officials, government ministers, and their families mingled, their usual stern expressions softened by the festivities.
The hum of conversation and the occasional burst of laughter filled the hall, a reminder that even the most vigilant could take a moment to celebrate.
As the clock struck 11:58 in the evening, Julieanne approached Alexander.
"Your Excellency, it's time for you to make a speech to your people,"
Alexander nodded, setting down the glass of mulled wine. The warmth of the festivities, while heartening, was momentarily set aside as he focused on the importance of what was to come. This speech would mark Valoria's first Christmas celebration as a nation unified in both strength and spirit.
He stepped onto the elevated platform inside the grand hall, facing the large arched windows that overlooked the square outside. The murmurs in the room subsided as guests turned their attention to him, and a hush fell over the square as the radio broadcast clicked into place. The golden hands of the clock on Volkshalle's towering spire inched closer to midnight.
"Citizens of Valoria," Alexander began, his voice deep and steady, resonating through the hall and out into the city via the radio waves. "Tonight, as we gather under the glow of lights and the embrace of our shared spirit, we celebrate not just a season, but a promise—a promise of peace, unity, and resilience."
The crowd outside stood in rapt attention, their breath visible in the cold night air. Children, wide-eyed with wonder, huddled close to their parents, while older citizens, who had seen the nation through its trials, listened with solemn pride.
"This year has brought challenges," Alexander continued, his gaze sweeping over the sea of faces beyond the windows. "It has tested our mettle and shown us the strength we hold when we stand together. But let tonight be a testament to what we are capable of—not just in times of struggle, but in moments of joy and peace."
The tree behind him, now fully lit and glowing with a soft, warm light, seemed to symbolize his words. The branches glistened with frost and baubles, reflecting the flickering glow of the candles.
"I vow to each of you," he said, his tone deepening with conviction, "that as long as Valoria stands, we will strive to ensure that every family, every citizen, can celebrate this season in peace. This will not be just a moment, but a tradition—a beacon of hope that will shine year after year."
A murmur of approval rippled through the crowd. Inside the grand hall, guests exchanged nods and raised their glasses in silent agreement. The city square remained quiet, with eyes fixed on Alexander's commanding figure.
"The strength of Valoria is found not only in our vigilance but in our compassion and unity," he added. "Let the light of this night be a reminder that together, we will build a future where peace is not just a hope, but a reality."
As the clock's hands aligned at midnight, a collective cheer rose from the square, mingling with the final notes of the church bells that marked the hour. Alexander paused, letting the sounds of celebration wash over the city. Fireworks, meticulously prepared, shot into the sky, exploding in bursts of crimson and gold that mirrored the banners draped over Volkshalle.
He looked at Julieanne, who stood nearby, eyes bright with the success of the night. She offered a small nod, one that conveyed their mutual understanding: this was more than a speech—it was a pledge, a commitment that would shape the path of Valoria for years to come.
Alexander turned back to the crowd, a rare, genuine smile breaking through his usual composure. "Merry Christmas, Valoria," he said, his voice softer now but no less resolute. "May this night be the first of many, filled with peace and unwavering hope."