Chapter 154: Broadcast of Triumph
May 7th, 1939 – Volkshalle, Valoria.
The Volkshalle's grand broadcasting room was a hub of focused activity. Technicians adjusted microphones, aligned cameras, and ensured the transmission equipment was functioning perfectly. Bright lights illuminated the central podium, where a Valorian flag hung proudly behind it. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the nation prepared to hear directly from its Supreme Leader.
Alexander stood before a mirror in his private chamber, adjusting the high collar of his formal military coat. Its deep black fabric, adorned with gold trim and insignias, reflected his authority and the resilience of his nation. Julieanne entered quietly, her clipboard in hand.
"Your Excellency," she said, her voice steady but tinged with pride, "everything is ready. The broadcast will reach every corner of Valoria and beyond. This is your moment to cement the victory in the minds of our people."
Alexander nodded, his piercing gaze meeting hers through the mirror. "Victory is only as strong as the belief of those who follow it. Tonight, we ensure that every Valorian knows the strength of our resolve."
Julieanne handed him a carefully prepared transcript. "Your speech, sir, though I imagine you'll speak from the heart as always."
Alexander took the papers, skimming them briefly before setting them aside. "The heart of the matter cannot be read from a page, Julieanne. This will come from here," he said, tapping his chest. "The people need to feel the truth of our triumph."
Julieanne inclined her head and stepped aside as Alexander strode confidently toward the broadcast room.
The cameras rolled as the live feed began. Across Valoria, in homes, factories, and public squares, citizens gathered around radios and large screens to hear their leader speak. The image of Alexander, standing tall and composed, filled every display. His face bore the weight of a man who had led his nation through peril and emerged stronger.
"My fellow Valorians," Alexander began, his deep voice resonating with unwavering authority, "today, we stand as a testament to the strength and determination of our people. The Ruthenian Navy, a force that sought to violate our sovereignty and bring destruction to our shores, has been repelled. Their fleets lie in ruins, their ambitions crushed beneath the might of Valorian steel and courage."
Cheers erupted across the nation. In a crowded square in Volkstadt, citizens waved flags and embraced one another. In a rural village, farmers paused their work, nodding solemnly as they listened to the broadcast. Soldiers stationed at distant outposts saluted their radios, pride swelling in their hearts.
"Let us recognize the bravery of our sailors, airmen, and soldiers who stood unwavering against the tides of aggression," Alexander continued. "Their sacrifices have ensured that Valoria remains unyielding, our waters secure, and our homes protected."
On the flight deck of the Stormhawk, the crew listened to the broadcast through loudspeakers. Graves, still exhausted from the battle, allowed himself a small smile as Alexander's words reached him. The Supreme Leader's acknowledgment of their efforts felt like a personal victory.
"But let us not mistake this victory for an end," Alexander said, his tone sharpening. "The Ruthenians, though battered and broken, have not yet surrendered. There is no treaty, no armistice, no acknowledgment of their failure. While their navy no longer poses a threat, their pride and stubbornness may yet drive them to further folly. We must remain vigilant."
The shift in tone was palpable. Across Valoria, the celebratory mood sobered as Alexander reminded the nation of the unfinished task.
"Our victory today is a warning to those who would seek to test us," he declared. "Let it be known to every nation: Valoria will not bow, nor will we falter. We are a people forged in the crucible of resilience, and we will endure whatever challenges lie ahead."
In the Volkshalle broadcast room, the technicians exchanged glances of admiration. Alexander's words were a masterstroke, blending pride with resolve, triumph with caution.
"Our work is not done," Alexander continued, his gaze piercing through the camera. "We will rebuild what was threatened. We will strengthen what remains. And we will push forward, united as one people, one nation, under one banner."
The crowd in Volkstadt erupted into applause once more. People shouted Alexander's name, their voices rising in unison like a battle cry.
"To our allies and those who share our vision for a stable, prosperous world," Alexander said, his tone softening slightly, "know that Valoria stands firm in its principles. And to our adversaries, heed this moment. We will defend our sovereignty and honor with every fiber of our being. Let this be a testament to what awaits those who would oppose us."
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle. "Tonight, we celebrate not just a military victory, but the spirit of Valoria itself. To our heroes on the frontlines, to the workers in our factories, to every citizen who contributes to our strength: this victory is yours. Together, we shall ensure that Valoria's light shines brighter than ever before."
Alexander raised his hand in a gesture of unity. "For Valoria!" he declared.
The words were echoed by millions across the nation. The broadcast ended, but the fervor it ignited continued to spread. People poured into the streets, their voices raised in songs of patriotism. Fireworks lit up the night sky in Volkstadt, their brilliant colors reflecting off the grand architecture of the city.
In the quiet aftermath of the broadcast, Alexander returned to his private chambers. Julieanne was waiting for him, a rare smile on her face.
"Your Excellency," she said, "the people are inspired. Reports are already coming in of renewed efforts in the factories and recruitment centers. Your words have reignited the nation's resolve."
Alexander removed his coat, draping it over a chair. "Good. But let us not forget that words alone cannot win wars. The Ruthenians will feel the full weight of their mistake soon enough."
Julieanne nodded. "And when they do, Valoria will stand ready."
As Alexander gazed out over the city, his mind was already turning to the next steps. The war was far from over, but with his people behind him and his military emboldened, he was certain of one thing: Valoria's time had come.