>>5689431>>5689482>>5689484>>5689490"We have languished in the depths for far too long. Our forefathers' mistakes should not define us. We are more than just cursed creatures. We are warriors! It is time we rise and claim our rightful place in the world above."
Prince Skarrik, his eyes glowing with ambition, stood upon his ornate throne, surrounded by his loyal Skaven advisors. Among them was Zazak, the shaman of the Skaven, his wiry frame and tattered robes a stark contrast to the opulence of the chamber.
Zazak approached the throne, his voice carrying a sense of urgency and wisdom. "My prince, I beseech you to reconsider your course of action. The surface world is not to be underestimated. Seeking alliances before engaging in war would be prudent."
Prince Skarrik sneered, his sharp fangs glistening in the dim light. "Alliances? We are the mighty Skaven, the chosen race of the underground! We need no help from weaklings above. Their world shall bow before our might!"
Zazak, undeterred, bowed his head and replied, "Prince Skarrik, you speak true of our strength, but underestimate the forces we may face. The surface world is not as defenseless as you believe. They possess powerful armies, magic, and the ability to unite against a common foe. To wage war without caution would be a grave mistake."
The prince's tail twitched with impatience as he retorted, "Caution is for the feeble-minded! We have the numbers, the cunning, and the advantage of surprise. Our empire will rise, and the surface dwellers will tremble before our might!"
Zazak's eyes glowed with an intensity as he raised his voice, desperation lacing his words. "My prince, I implore you to consider the consequences of rash actions. We have the potential for greatness, but we also possess weaknesses that the surface world could exploit. By seeking alliances, we can mitigate these vulnerabilities and strengthen our position."
Skarrik's eyes narrowed, his voice dripping with contempt. "You dare question my rule, shaman? I have brought our people to glory, expanded our dominion, and crushed all who opposed us. I will not be swayed by your feeble words of caution!"
Zazak, undeterred, met the prince's gaze with unwavering resolve. "My prince, I am loyal to our cause, and it is because of this loyalty that I urge you to consider the long-term consequences of our actions. Allies could provide us with valuable resources, knowledge, and even protection when our empire is at its most vulnerable."
The prince's clawed hand tightened around the armrest as he pondered Zazak's words. A brief moment of contemplation crossed his features before he spoke, his tone laced with begrudging respect, "Very well, shaman. I shall entertain your notion of alliances. But make no mistake—I will not hesitate to crush any who betray us or stand in our way."