As Elio delivered his speech, his loved ones and closest allies watched him with pride, concern, and amazement.
Zara, her eyes shining with emotion, couldn't tear her gaze away from Elio. "Look how he's grown," she whispered.
Her heart pounded, especially when Elio mentioned a more significant role for women. A smile played on her lips as she imagined others who had been held back by culture but yearned to act like her.
♢♢♢♢
Elio continued his address, his voice growing stronger with each word:
"I know these changes may seem overwhelming... But I promise you won't be alone on this journey. I myself will undergo the same risks I'm asking you to face."
Elio took a deep breath before making his final announcements.
"To fulfill these promises, I'm going to re-enter the sea of monsters."
A stunned silence fell over the crowd.