A news spreads....
The kingdom of Aurelian was changing. Whispers spread through villages. The royal guard was recruiting. Strange beasts had appeared near fractured ruins and warriors were being selected from across the land. They were calling it:
The Kingdom Warrior Selection Trial
Scene: Village Announcement
A large wooden stage stood in the village square. A royal herald stepped forward, voice echoing.
"By order of King Aurelian IV, the Kingdom opens its selection for new warriors."
Crowd murmurs rose instantly. The herald continued:
"Only those who pass the trial will be chosen to serve in the Royal Vanguard."
A list of names was read aloud. Among them were commoners, mercenaries, travelers. And then —
A pause.
The herald unfolded another scroll.
"And for those with… exceptional potential, direct selection into the Capital Corps may be granted."
Eyes widened in the crowd. Renn stood at the edge of the crowd, arms folded. He had no intention of stepping forward. No desire for glory. No reason to leave.
"All candidates will be chosen at sunset. Those selected will begin training under the Royal Vanguard immediately."
He looked over the crowd.
"Step forward… if you believe you are worthy."
The wind passed through the square. People whispered. Some stepped forward. Some hesitated, some turned away.
Renn did neither.
He simply stood still. But beneath his shirt… The Valehart crest faintly glowed. As if it had just heard its name spoken again after a very long silence.