Valoria

Thalos made his way to the central hall, his mind racing with the possibilities of why he had been summoned so urgently. The elder’s stern face from earlier weighed heavily on his thoughts, adding to the pressure. As he entered the dimly lit room, the air felt thick with the importance of what was to come. Seated around the long table were several of the tribe’s elders, their expressions serious, and their voices hushed as they spoke in low tones. One of them, Elder Garith, motioned for Thalos to step forward.

“Thalos,” Garith began, his voice grave, “there’s been a disturbance at the northern border of our lands. Scouts have reported unusual activity—movements from other tribes, possibly even outsiders beyond Veloria’s borders.” The room seemed to close in as Thalos listened. This was no small issue; his tribe’s paranoia about outsiders, while often overblown, was not without reason. If deer or other tribes were encroaching on their lands, it could lead to conflict. “We’ve called you back because your knowledge and skills are needed. You’re familiar with the surrounding tribes, and your recent travels give you an advantage in understanding potential threats.”

Thalos felt a surge of responsibility, but his thoughts quickly shifted to Seraphina, waiting back at his home. If the Tundra Tribe had heard about the movements, or worse, if they were suspected of involvement, it could put her in a dangerous position. “Do you know who’s behind it?” Thalos asked, trying to sound calm, though his mind was racing. Elder Garith shook his head. “We’re still gathering information, but tensions are rising. We need you to help assess the situation and figure out if this is something we can solve diplomatically or if we need to prepare for the worst.” Thalos nodded, taking in the gravity of the task. He would need to tread carefully—both to protect his tribe and to ensure Seraphina wasn’t unfairly blamed for something her people had nothing to do with.

“I’ll do what I can,” Thalos said, bowing his head respectfully before leaving the hall. As he made his way back home, his mind was already racing with plans, thoughts of Seraphina woven into each one. He would need her help, but how would his tribe react to the idea of a Tundra Tribe member assisting in a matter this sensitive? As he opened the door, Seraphina’s sharp gaze met his. “What’s the verdict?” she asked, already sensing something was wrong. Thalos sighed, closing the door behind him. “There’s trouble on the northern border. Possible outsiders. My tribe’s worried, and they want me to help assess the situation.” Seraphina sat and crossed her hooves, a knowing look in her eyes. “What do you need from me?”