All eyes shifted to Max.
Eir's voice cut through the air.
"And why is that?"
Hunter let out a rough breath, shaking his head.
"He thinks we're weak. That it?"
Kael chuckled.
"Didn't expect that one—but hey, he's not wrong. Why stack the numbers when I'm already here?"
Tim crossed his arms.
"I actually didn't expect this from you."
Max didn't flinch. His smile stayed calm, steady.
"You're all wrong, it's not about weakness. It's because I've got something… something that might actually tip the fight."
A deep rumble cut through the conversation. Something slammed into the southern wall—heavy enough to shake the ground beneath their boots.
Eir's face hardened.
"We're out of time. Everyone, move to your positions!"
He turned toward Max, slower this time.
"I hope you're right. I don't want to watch your team die out there."
Max's grin sharpened.
"Then don't blink. I bet you will be surprised."
They moved fast after that—boots slapping dirt, blades at their sides.
