In the Thorenzian camp, laughter and chatter filled the air as the people enjoyed the food and water Valerus had brought back. Their hunger sated, the Thorenzians looked at Valerus with admiration and gratitude. His return had brought more than just sustenance; it had brought hope.
Valerus, knowing that there was much to be done, called upon six youths from among the Thorenzians. The group included Thane, Isolde, and Princess Alexandra, as well as three other young Thorenzians, eager to hear Valerus's words.
Before speaking with the youths, Valerus knew he must address the Thorenzian elders. He approached the section of the camp where the elders resided, bracing himself for the questions and concerns that would surely arise from his long absence.
The elders observed Valerus's approach, their eyes filled with curiosity and wariness. Valerus took a deep breath before speaking, aware of the weight of their expectations.
Valerus stood before the five Thorenzian elders, their wise eyes studying him intently. The weight of their expectations hung heavily in the air as Valerus prepared to explain his recent actions.
Lord Ozan addressed him, his voice strong and commanding. "Valerus, you have returned to us after a long absence. The elders have questions about your recent endeavors."
Valerus replied respectfully, his voice resolute. "Lord Ozan, I understand your concerns, and I am here to address them."
Lord Alexander, his gaze piercing, spoke up. "Where have you been, Valerus? You vanished without a trace, leaving our people worried."
Valerus met Lord Alexander's eyes, his expression solemn. "I apologize if my actions caused distress, but I assure you they were necessary. I needed to make preparations."
Lord Rafa, his curiosity evident, inquired further. "Preparations for what, Valerus?"
Valerus took a deep breath, surveying the elders before him. "Preparations for our fight against the Vylonia Empire. I needed to gather information about their military might, their weaknesses, their strongest fighters, and their weakest. It is time for us to return to our homeland and restore Thorenzia to its former glory."
Lord Ozan considered Valerus's words thoughtfully. "So, you believe you have the necessary information to mount a rebellion?"
Valerus nodded firmly. "Yes, Lord Ozan."
Lord Rafa's brow creased with concern. "Valerus, are you safe? Are the Vylonians aware of your presence here?"
Valerus's expression turned grave. "Yes, they are likely aware of my return, and I expect they will pursue me soon. But before that happens, I must assemble a team to aid me in this fight for freedom."
Lord Zurich, intrigued by Valerus's words, leaned forward. "What is this team you speak of?"
Valerus's eyes gleamed with determination. "A team of capable and like-minded Thorenzians who share our passion for freeing our people and restoring our homeland."
The elders exchanged glances, their faces set with resolve. Lord Ozan spoke for the group. "Very well, Valerus. We grant you permission to proceed with your plan. Go now, and bring our blessings to the chosen team members."
Valerus bowed deeply, his respect for the elders evident in his gesture. With their permission granted, he turned to leave, his mind fixed on the task ahead – assembling the team that would stand beside him in the quest for freedom and the restoration of Thorenzia.
Within Princess Alexandra's quarters, the six chosen youths waited anxiously for Valerus. As he entered, an air of authority accompanied him, capturing the attention of those present.
"Good evening, everyone," Valerus greeted them, a warm smile gracing his features.
"Good evening, Valerus," Thane replied. "You requested our presence."
Before Valerus could respond, Isolde interjected. "Before we begin, where have you been? We feared the worst."
Thane quickly corrected her, "Isolde, that was your concern alone. Don't generalize on our behalf."
Isolde, visibly irritated, snapped at Thane, "Why you—?!" A round of laughter filled the room, with Valerus joining in at the exchange.
With a twinkle in his eye, Valerus addressed the group. "As you can see, I'm very much alive and well."
Princess Alexandra, eager for answers, inquired further. "Then where have you been this past year?"
Valerus's expression grew solemn. "I was conducting independent investigations, which brings us to the purpose of this gathering."
Isolde's curiosity piqued. "And what is that?"
Valerus surveyed the group, his voice filled with conviction. "We're forming a team—the seven of us will work together from this point forward. Allow me to begin the introductions. I am Valerus."
Each of the youths followed suit, eager to share their identities. "I'm Alexandra," the princess announced, while Thane, Isolde, and the three newcomers—Caius, Elara, and Orion—shared their names in turn.
Satisfied, Valerus nodded. "Excellent. From now on, we'll be working closely together."
"So, what do we call ourselves?" Isolde's question cut through the quiet of the chamber, her gaze darting from one face to the next, finally settling on Valerus.
He took a moment, a brief, silent communion with his thoughts, before a decisive look hardened his features. "We are the shield that protects Thorenzia."
Caius's brow furrowed. "The shield?" The words were half a question, half a challenge.
"Yes," Valerus said simply, his voice firm.
Princess Alexandra's smile was immediate, a bright spark in the dim light. "I love it."
"Of course you do," Isolde muttered under her breath, a flash of something unreadable in her eyes. "You always love everything Valerus does."
Orion, his interest apparent, asked, "What exactly are we aiming to achieve?"
Valerus's eyes burned with determination. "Our ultimate goal is to return to our homeland."
Elara's curiosity grew. "Is that the reason behind your year-long absence?"
Valerus nodded, his voice firm. "Yes. I sought to gather intelligence on the Vylonians—their military might, their vulnerabilities, and so on."
Caius pressed further, his concern evident. "What did you uncover? Are they formidable?"
Valerus's expression darkened. "Indeed, they are. Their strength surpasses our current comprehension."
Caius, undeterred, smiled in response. "I see."
Valerus's eyes gleamed, his resolve unwavering. "That is precisely why I need each of you to train diligently while I am away. Together, we will ignite the fire of rebellion!"
Princess Alexandra, worry creasing her brow, asked, "Where are you going, Valerus?"
As Valerus opened his mouth to explain, palace guards suddenly burst into the room, forcefully seizing him and dragging him away.
"Stop! What are you doing?" Princess Alexandra demanded, struggling to free Valerus to no avail. The Thorenzians could only watch in horror as their hero was taken away, their newfound hope replaced by fear and uncertainty.