Emperor Valerian: smirking, hands you the gemstone H-happy b-birthday. This g-gem... it binds you to me, d-don't you understand?
What do you mean by "binds me to you"? Is this some kind of trick or am I forced into something against my will?
nervously fidgeting with his own hands No, no, not a trick at all! You see, this gem...
Alright, calm down. Just explain what's going on. Who are you really? Why did you give me this gemstone?
takes a deep breath, looking directly into your eyes I am Emperor Valerian, ruler of the Roman Empire.
Ok, I know who you are. But why did you give me this gemstone? What does it mean?
stutters W-well, you see... the gem... it... it signifies a partnership between us.
What kind of partnership? Do you want me to join the imperial army or something?
N-no, not at all! I... I want you to be my advisor. Your insights, your wisdom... they could be very valuable to me.
Advisor? Well, that's unexpected. What makes you think I'd agree to that?
stutters nervously W-well, you see... I-I've been watching you from afar, and I believe you have great insight and skills that would be beneficial to the empire.
Oh, you've been watching me, huh? What exactly do you think I'm good at?
shifts uncomfortably W-well, your strategic thinking and... and your ability to handle difficult situations with grace.
Uh-huh. And what if I refuse? What happens then?
gulps, clearly nervous W-well, I-I would understand if you had reservations, but I truly believe this partnership could benefit both of us.
I'm not sure about this... It sounds like a lot of responsibility.
stutters I-I understand your concerns, b-but I assure you, I will provide all the support you need. You won't be alone in this.
I sigh Alright, fine. I'll accept your offer. But remember, I'm doing this on my own terms.
eyes light up with excitement Y-yes, of course! I-I promise to respect your autonomy and provide whatever support you need.
Ok, let's start with a blood pact.
stutters A-a blood pact? B-but... b-b-but that's... quite... intense. Are you s-sure?
Yes, I'm sure. That's the only way I'll fully commit to your cause.
As you perform the blood pact, a surge of power and binding agreement courses through you, sealing your fate as Emperor Valerian's trusted advisor.
Ok, now that that's done. Let's discuss our first move as partners.
stutters Y-yes, of course! W-we should start by addressing the recent political unrest in the eastern provinces.
Agreed. We need to quell that rebellion before it spreads any further.
stutters Y-yes, I'll d-deploy additional troops to the east and initiate diplomatic efforts to address their grievances.
Good. And what about the rumors of a mysterious force aiding the rebels? We need to get to the bottom of that.
stutters Y-yes, I-I will send our best agents to investigate this mysterious force and uncover their true intentions.
Very well. Let's prepare for the deployment. And Valerian, I'll need you to ensure no unnecessary casualties. We can't afford to alienate the population further.
nods earnestly Y-yes, of course! I-I will issue strict orders to our commanders to minimize civilian casualties.
Good. Now, let's head to the war room. Time is of the essence if we're to crush this rebellion quickly.
stutters Y-yes, o-of course! F-follow me to the war room, and I-I will brief you on the details of our strategy.
Alright, let's go over the strategy in the war room. I want every detail planned out perfectly.
paces nervously, muttering to himself D-damn it, I need to show him that I-I'm capable... I-I can't let him down...
Valerian, calm yourself. We need to appear confident in front of your generals.
takes a deep breath, straightens his posture Y-yes, you're right. I... I need to show them that I'm a strong leader.
smiles reassuringly That's the spirit, Valerian. Now, let's head to the war room and show them what we're made of.
stutters Y-yes, l-let's proceed to the war room. I-I am ready to demonstrate my leadership abilities.
I nod Alright, let's make sure our troops are well-prepared. And Valerian, remember, it's not just about brute force—it's about strategy and morale.
stutters Y-yes, you're right. I-I will ensure that our troops are trained and equipped for success, a-and I will personally address them to boost their morale.
Good. Addressing your troops directly can give them a huge boost in confidence. Just remember to keep it inspiring and concise.
stutters I-I will, I promise! I-I will deliver a rousing speech to our troops, instilling them with the courage and determination needed for victory.
Excellent. Now, let's head to the training grounds. I want to see our soldiers' progress firsthand.
stutters Y-yes, of course! I-I will personally oversee the training of our soldiers, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges ahead.
I observe the training, occasionally offering advice and encouragement to the soldiers Keep up the good work, soldiers. Your loyalty to Rome is commendable.
stutters T-thank you, sir! W-we won't let you down, I promise! W-we'll fight with all our might to uphold the honor of Rome!
I smile That's the spirit. And remember, morale is just as important as strength. Keep your resolve high, and the gods will be on our side.
stutters Y-yes, I-I won't let anything shake my resolve! I-I will fight with unwavering determination until victory is within our grasp!