Adam's body moved before his mind could catch up.
CLANG!
Steel met steel as he brought up his blade, an ordinary iron longsword, just in time to block the sudden attack.
The impact rattled through his bones, the vibration biting into his muscles as both he and Cael slid across the thick, wet earth of the swamp.
Muck splattered up from the ground as their boots tore into it.
Adam gritted his teeth, arms tensed as he steadied himself.
"What the hell are you doing?"
He snapped, voice cold and edged with quiet, dangerous clarity.
Behind him, Xel'Shaar, crouched, as though ready to launch himself towards Cael who had attacked his Lord.
But before he could pounce, Adam raised his left arm with an open palm held out.
"Don't."
Xel'Shaar stopped instantly.
Cael didn't respond.
His breath hitched as he raised his broadsword again.
Hands trembling, but hiding it behind movement.
