"About to evolve into Nightmare rank, according to the ambient magical signatures," Pho added casually, as if discussing the weather rather than a creature that could kill Rhys without a second thought.
Slyph's green aura flickered nervously. "Rhys, are you sure about this? Nightmare-rank creatures are... they're what people stay up at night about. Adventurers gather entire parties to attempt to fight them."
"I'm not sure about anything," Rhys admitted. "But we don't have a choice. I need to clear this floor, and six more after it, in forty-nine days. Standing here being afraid doesn't help."
Pho's blank white eyes somehow conveyed approval. "Good answer. Fear is acceptable." He gestured toward the fortress entrance. "Now move forward. Show me that these fifty days weren't wasted on a coward who talks about bravery but never acts on it."
The words stung, but Rhys recognized them for what they were.
A provocation meant to override his fear with anger or determination.
