The dust settled in slow, swirling curtains around him. The Mithril-Sigil glowed faintly, steady, unwavering. His presence wasn't just physical; it reshaped the air itself.
Tzalco had gone silent. Not the silence of respect or fear, but the silence of anticipation. Waiting for judgment. Waiting for consequences.
Xhan recovered first. His eyes were burning with a primal fury. "Who dares intervene? This is the city of Tzalco, you hold no authority here."
The Mithril-ranked Explorer turned slowly. His face was revealed in the dimming dust. A hard jawline, piercing dark eyes, and short-cropped, iron-gray hair lent him an air of cold precision.
He spoke. Voice deep, unyielding.
"Explorer Protocol," he said, each word like steel striking stone. "Engagement override now in effect."
Xhan became furious, picking up his sword. "Protocol? Your laws mean nothing in Tzalco. You—"
