Mordred turned to Kael, his face marked by relentless gravity. He placed a firm hand on the massive warrior's shoulder, who trembled despite his imposing stature.
- "Kael, stay back," he ordered in a low but authoritative voice that brooked no argument. "You won't be able to do anything here. R'daz's Vhulks are beyond your current capabilities. Preserve your life, for we can no longer guarantee your protection from now on."
Kael parted his lips, ready to protest, but the piercing gazes of Mordred and the old man made him recoil instantly. A glimmer of understanding crossed his face as he nodded resignedly. He slowly withdrew, his weapon still raised instinctively, knuckles whitened by the tension of his grip.
