(Before you read it further, Vertex also means Storm, and the situation with the Empress also is stormy.)
Valerian stood outside a cave, the entrance was not so easy to find as it was covered with vines and hidden behind boulders. Quies had told Valerian, "You have one day, the prince is not to be injured to the extent where his survival becomes difficult. Also, if you find anyone around the prince, kill them. Those people are not from the royal family or the Imperial army."
The child kept that in mind as he looked up at the dark sky. At this hour, it was not possible for him to go deep into this uncharted territory without encountering any predatory beasts. Even if he was strong, Valerian understood that the beasts were stronger and they held the home field advantage.