Kahrem let out a low chuckle and slammed a fist into his open palm. "Good! That's the spirit. Come!"
Despite the tremor in his arms, Wrye lifted his fists higher, ready to fight again. He looked like a man carved out of sheer will, but there's no denying he looked ready to collapse any moment.
Auri rose from the ground and reached out from behind, grabbing Wrye's arm to stop him.
Kahrem narrowed his eyes at Auri. "You interfering, boy?"
"That's enough. He can't fight you anymore."
"Move, Auri," Wrye whispered, not lowering his fists. "This is my fight. You go find a way out of here. Escape. Survive. I'll hold him here."
Auri frowned. "I'm not leaving you behind."
"Auri, listen—!"
"You promised!" Auri snapped. "You promised in your letter that you'll make sure Timofey comes home safe. How can you fulfill that promise if you throw your life away in this fight?"
Wrye faltered but still refused to back down.
