After accepting that the new plan would remain undisclosed until the moment of execution, Tristan and Valeria embarked on a two-hour journey to reach the landmass beneath the Kingdom of Phaenon in solemn silence. They chose to meditate, knowing it was the most effective way to swiftly recover from their mentally taxing Mind practice.
Valeria took the role of guiding Tristan in his meditation, ensuring he followed the correct techniques. In a matter of minutes, Tristan successfully aligned himself with Valeria's guidance. Unbeknownst to him, Uncle Alex closely observed their interaction, monitoring the connection between Tristan and Princess Valeria.
Alex witnessed how the two teenagers immersed themselves in meditation, completely disregarding their surroundings. He could feel a warm energy radiating from the spot where Tristan and Valeria sat.
In a barely audible whisper that eluded the perception of average humans, Lady Ayana remarked, "These two teenagers possess something extraordinary, Alex. Can you feel the power emanating from their meditative states? I certainly can, and it is truly remarkable!"
"Yes, I can feel it too. And it's not just in this moment. I've sensed it since the first time Tristan and Valeria met," Prince Alex whispered back, his eyes shining with curiosity.
"Did you know that my father spoke of a certain prophecy involving these two teenagers? The fate of our kingdom rests on their success in this journey," Prince Alex added.
Surprised by Prince Alex's revelation, Lady Ayana briefly displayed a mix of surprise and curiosity on her face. "Why did you tell me this?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Because I trust you... and I want you to join me on this journey," Prince Alex responded with a tone filled with determination and hope. "I don't believe I can make it through alive without your assistance," he added, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness.
"Shut the fuck up, Alex! Don't jinx the journey like that. I can't even bear to imagine anything happening to you. It would be dreadful, not just for you, but for me as well," Lady Ayana whispered, her worry and genuine concern for the well-known ladies' man evident.
"What I did to you over the years was truly awful, Ayana... I know you have remained loyal to me, keeping your love reserved only for me, while I did the exact opposite," Prince Alex's expression turned somber as he admitted his past mistakes.
"Stop it, Alex. Just stop," Lady Ayana's voice grew louder, each word carrying a tinge of pain. "I was a fool for falling in love with you, for keeping my love exclusively for you. A man who couldn't be satisfied with just one woman... So, stop it," she said, her gaze fixed on the sky ahead, her eyes welling up with tears that eventually cascaded down her cheeks.
"No! I was the fool for thinking I would never fall in love, for believing that sex was devoid of love, treating it as a mere act akin to eating. I failed to realize that love is an integral part of it," Prince Alex confessed with a deep sigh as if a burden had been lifted from his shoulders.
"And it took me facing the possibility of sacrificing my life to defend our kingdom, to protect the light from the encroaching darkness, to realize that I've been in love with you all this time..." Alex Moonstone poured out his feelings to Lady Ayana.
Slowly, he reached out for Ayana's hand, which had been clutching the aircraft's central stick tightly, a reflection of her current emotions. Lady Ayana gradually released her grip, allowing Prince Alex to firmly hold her hand instead.
Now, they stood hand in hand, silently observing the horizon ahead as a scattered yellowish light began to emerge. They were heading towards the rising sun.
"So... will you be my partner in this journey, my love?" Prince Alex requested, his gaze fixed on Lady Ayana with a deep, tranquil look.
As Prince Alex's words reached her ears, Lady Ayana blushed, her heart fluttering with romantic emotions. Yet, her eyes revealed her attempt to think rationally, determined not to succumb to her emotions without careful consideration.
"Okay. On one condition. Let me examine your new plan. I won't join you if it's foolish. In fact, I might even forbid you from proceeding if it's reckless. Do we have an agreement?" she asserted confidently.
"Fine. Your condition is wholeheartedly accepted, with no ifs or buts. I appreciate brainstorming, especially when what we're brainstorming about would lead me into what could be an inevitable demise," Prince Alex agreed.
"So, what's your new plan, my Prince?" Lady Ayana inquired, her voice demanding a detailed yet concise explanation.
"Alright. The plan is simple. Very simple. We will keep the trailing drone following your aircraft, but we won't be on board," Prince Alex explained with a hint of amusement in his voice. A wide smile now adorned his face.
"Your co-pilot and engineer will maintain a low flight and stick to the initial course. Meanwhile, we will jump out of the plane, free-falling undetected directly above the snowy mountain of Alpibus," he continued.
"Don't worry about the free fall. The snow will be thick at this time of year. We will rely on our energy manipulation to protect ourselves and wear modified jackets to shield us from the freezing cold," he elaborated, hoping to convince Lady Ayana.
"Sounds like a good plan, despite the unassessed risks and dangers. Do we have backup plans in case something goes awry during our free fall, darling? Or perhaps backup lives?" Lady Ayana asked, her tone slightly sarcastic.
"Hahahaha... see? Even as you begin to join me on this journey by discussing the plan, the arduous path ahead already feels lighter," Prince Alex chuckled, his enthusiasm and happiness evident.
Lady Ayana could only smile, observing Prince Alex's excitement and contentment regarding the new plan.
"Alright. Now you need to prepare Tristan and Valeria. Make sure they are ready, Alex," Lady Ayana asserted. "Meanwhile, I will instruct my team to fulfill your requests," she added before rising and walking toward her team.