Kyle sensed a shift in Melissa's aura. His eyes darted to her. She stood frozen, her sword limp at her side.
The Frozen Armoured Bear lunged.
Bruce moved, but he was too far. He wouldn't make it in time.
Kyle didn't hesitate. He shot forward, grabbing Melissa and pulling her back just before the bear's claws could reach her.
Melissa gasped, eyes wide with shock. Bruce skidded to a stop, staring in disbelief. Neither had seen Kyle move so fast.
The bear roared and attacked again, but Kyle raised a hand. A surge of mana burst from him, locking the beast in place. It struggled, but his power held it still.
He turned to Melissa. His voice was calm, firm.
"If you can't do this, give up."
Melissa looked at him, breathing heavily.
"I won't force you to continue this fight. If you want, you can walk away. Live a life where you never have to fight again."
Kyle continued.
For a moment, silence stretched between them. Melissa's fingers trembled.
