Operation Redemption Begins

Inside the strategy tent, the atmosphere grew more tense with the audacious plan put forth. Lorian looked around, "This is a mission of great importance, we need our best." His eyes fixed on a slender figure in the back, draped in dark green and silver. "Lira, step forward."

From the shadows emerged an Elven figure. Lira's face was covered with intricate markings, indicating her esteemed status as a Shadowmeld - elite Elvish operatives known for their stealth and subterfuge.

Thork smirked, "For muscle, we'll send Gorag." A towering Orc with scars crisscrossing his body stepped forth. His eyes glinted with a mix of mischief and aggression.

Grimdal, after a moment of contemplation, pointed towards a stocky dwarf, his armor shining even in the dim light of the tent. "Dagnir will join you. His skills with the axe are unmatched, and if things go sideways, he's your man."

Amukelo nodded, studying his companions for this daring mission. They each brought a unique skill set, and he felt a surge of confidence.

. . .

The team, now cloaked in the shadows of the night, approached the marching army. From a vantage point atop a hillock, they took in the sight. The vast expanse was filled with Valarian's forces, the corrupted human soldiers forming the bulk, their movements in sync, robotic, and eerily silent. Behind them, the looming beasts and the undead shuffled and growled, creating an unsettling cacophony.

The silver hue of the moonlight illuminated the vast plains. It would take Valarian's forces a two or three days at most to reach the Elven lands, at their pace.

Lira gestured towards a slightly isolated group at the periphery of the army. "There. We strike there."

Gorag cracked his knuckles, "Let's make this quick."

Amukelo whispered, "Remember, we need them alive and unharmed. Lira, lead the way."

The night air was still as Lira darted out, her agility and swift moves catching the attention of a small group of Valarian's soldiers. Their once disciplined and strategic moves now seemed unpredictable and robotic as they pursued her. Lira's pace was swift, but she made sure she wasn't too swift to lose them. Her plan was to lead them right into the trap.

Amukelo, Gorag, and Dagnir lay in wait. As the soldiers neared the predetermined location, Gorag and Dagnir jumped out, their combined might taking the soldiers by surprise. Within moments, the group was surrounded, trapped with no way out.

Lira, having led them to the trap, now regrouped with Amukelo. They exchanged a quick nod. The next part was crucial.

Amukelo stepped forward, his eyes scanning the soldiers. The odd, dark mana now enveloped them, a stark contrast to their earlier state. It was like a parasite, drawing out their free will, replacing it with obedience to Valarian.

Closing his eyes, Amukelo extended his hands, focusing on the core of each soldier's being. He began to draw out the dark mana, tendrils of it stretching towards him as if reaching for freedom. One by one, the soldiers' postures began to change. The robotic stiffness faded, replaced with confusion and then realization.

It felt like hours, but in reality, only minutes had passed. All the soldiers now stood, free from Valarian's influence, their faces a mix of gratitude, bewilderment, and fear. They looked at their surroundings, at the beings who had saved them, and some fell to their knees in relief.

Gorag broke the silence. "It worked. We can save them all."

Lira nodded, "We need to inform the coalition. This changes everything."

Dagnir chimed in, "Aye, but it won't be easy. Valarian will realize some of his puppets are missing."

Amukelo smiled. "One step at a time. We've proven it's possible. Now, we scale it."

The group, with the rescued soldiers in tow, began their journey back to the allied encampment, hopeful and determined.