The military training grounds of Elysium were buzzing with activity. Lisa was swinging her sword, instructing the soldiers with sharp precision. Determination and unwavering resolve shone in her eyes. Ever since Alex's warning had been delivered, she felt a renewed urgency to reinforce the army and reorganize the kingdom's defense systems.
"Focus, everyone! We can't let our guard down!" Lisa shouted. "We don't know when Hyperion's forces will strike. We must be ready with everything we've got!"
The soldiers, drenched in sweat, responded in unison to her command. Lisa bore the weighty responsibility of being the shield that protected Elysium—and she carried it with pride.
Meanwhile, Serena moved silently through the dim corridors of the royal court. Tasked with gathering intelligence on Hyperion's recent activities, she used her speed and stealth to track enemy spies within Luminaria. She was the kingdom's shadow, hunting the hidden threats before they could strike.
"Something big is coming..." she whispered, melting into the darkness. "Hyperion's plan is already in motion. We need to uncover it before they make their move."
As she traced the faint remnants of Alex's trail, Serena sensed it—he hadn't merely disappeared. He was planning something far greater.
In the court's healing chambers, Aria tended to the wounded. A soft light glowed from her hands, closing the soldiers' wounds with warmth and calm precision. Her presence exuded serenity and care.
"There, you're going to be fine now. Just rest for a while," she said gently, her touch as warm as her smile.
But beneath her calm surface, concern for Alex lingered."Why did you leave, Master Alex... What happened to you?" she murmured softly. Whatever his reasons, she still wanted to believe he was on their side—on Elysium's side.
Just then, Aria received word that Merslin and Elena had set out in search of Alex. Without hesitation, she joined them.
"Your Majesties, I'd like to come with you. I need to know what happened to Master Alex," she said, her voice firm with resolve.
Merslin nodded. "Very well, Aria. We must find him. We must understand why he left, and what it means for what's to come."
Though each of Elysium's allies stood in different places, they were united by a shared purpose: uncovering Alex's true intentions and preparing for the impending threat.
Lisa, Serena, and Aria—each walking her own path, each gathering strength and knowledge. And when the time came for them to reunite, Elysium would once again stand strong, fortified by the unshakable bond of their alliance and resolve.
***
Episode: In Search of Capable Vassals
A tense silence filled the royal council chamber of Elysium. Merslin sat before a mountain of documents, exhaling a long, weary sigh. Though he had poured every effort into the kingdom's growth and stability, the ever-mounting responsibilities weighed heavily on his shoulders.
"We still have to negotiate trade with the southern dwarves… maintain the alliance with the orcs… more and more races are joining our kingdom," he muttered, fatigue clouding his face. "I can't do everything myself…"
At that moment, Elena entered the chamber and gently placed her hands on Merslin's shoulders."My love, you're pushing yourself too hard. Maybe you should rest—just a little."
He held her hand and smiled faintly."Not yet, Elena. If we want this kingdom to flourish, I have to stay on top of everything. But…"He paused in thought."…we need more capable vassals—people who can help us shoulder this burden."
Elena nodded in agreement."You're right. With so many different races joining us, it's time to bring in talented individuals from all walks of life. If people with different backgrounds and skills work together, we can overcome more challenges."
Merslin's eyes sharpened."Let's issue a royal proclamation across the kingdom. We'll hold a recruitment exam for those who wish to serve. Let everyone, regardless of race or class, prove their worth."
The proclamation quickly spread, and the capital city of Athera began to fill with hopeful applicants. In the palace, Merslin and Elena gathered with their allies to prepare for the examinations. Lisa, Serena, and Aria each contributed to the process based on their own experience.
Lisa crossed her arms."We need warriors and military experts. If war with Hyperion is inevitable, we'll need strong fighters ready for battle."
Serena nodded thoughtfully."We also need those skilled in intelligence and diplomacy. Someone has to track enemy movements and keep our relationships with other nations intact."
Aria smiled gently."And we can't forget healers. Even during peace, our people need care and support. That's just as important as warfare."
Merslin agreed."Let's recruit people from each field based on your suggestions. We'll select candidates who show excellence in each area."
Standing by his side, Elena added,"If we do this right, we'll bring together people with a variety of talents. And when those abilities are united, Elysium will grow stronger."
Days later, candidates began flooding into Athera. The first test was for administration. Applicants were evaluated on their problem-solving and policy-making skills. Among them, a dwarf named Kalina stood out. Her proposals were swift, creative, and remarkably practical.
Lisa reviewed Kalina's responses with a smile."Kalina… she has experience. Says here she served in the southern dwarf kingdom for years."
Serena nodded."She'll be invaluable in diplomacy as well. Her background could help maintain our ties with the southern dwarves."
Merslin considered this and said,"Good. Let's keep her in mind as a candidate for administrative service."
Next came the military trial, assessing tactical thinking and combat ability. A formidable orc warrior named Tarin emerged. His movements during battle simulations were agile and calculated—his instincts razor-sharp.
Lisa watched with admiration."He's got an incredible sense for combat. He's an orc, but his tactical instincts surpass even most humans."
Merslin added,"He trained at the northern border. He'd be a powerful asset to our strategy."
Finally, in the diplomatic test, a blood elf named Amalik demonstrated exceptional poise and insight. In a mock negotiation scenario, his keen analysis and adaptability won over even the most skeptical evaluators.
Serena watched Amalik's performance with quiet satisfaction."Blood elves are often mistrusted by other nations. But that's why they've learned to survive in diplomacy. He'll be useful."
Merslin reflected for a moment, then said,"Let's consider Amalik as well. Appointing him could show the world that blood elves have a place in our kingdom—one of trust and partnership."
After the trials concluded, Merslin, Elena, and their allies convened to review the top candidates.
Aria spoke first."Kalina, Tarin, and Amalik—each of them would be a tremendous asset. We need to assign them where they'll be most effective."
Lisa agreed."Tarin should lead in the military. His experience and strength could both protect our people and strengthen our ties with the orc clans."
Serena added,"Kalina for administration. Her experience will solidify our domestic affairs. And Amalik should oversee diplomacy. He'll help maintain stable relationships with our neighbors."
Merslin listened to each opinion and gave his decision."Alright. Let's appoint them accordingly."
A few days later, Kalina, Tarin, and Amalik were formally welcomed as new vassals of Elysium."Elysium may still be young," Merslin declared, "but with your support, it will grow into something greater than any of us imagined."
Lisa, Serena, and Aria each returned to their duties, now preparing to collaborate with their new allies. The kingdom was coming together, step by step.
All of Elysium's companions shared one goal: to build a kingdom that was strong, united, and secure. And with every new bond forged, Elysium drew closer to a future of lasting prosperity.