---
That order told Mihos more than any reassurance could have.
Stephen was preparing for the possibility that he might need to leave. He needs to flee like a loser. A situation like it never happened to him.
Mihos did not like it. He liked the alternative less.
Elena stepped forward again.
Sofia and Natasha took positions beside her.
Stephen stood alone opposite them.
Sekhmet remained farther back, but his Blood Control was now another threat Stephen could no longer ignore.
Every wound made Sekhmet more dangerous.
Every drop of blood became something Stephen had to protect.
Elena looked at him.
"You can still leave."
Mihos immediately shouted from behind him.
"No!"
Stephen did not answer either of them.
Elena continued.
"Take Mihos and leave Slik City. This fight ends. Never disrespect young master Sekhmet."
Mihos stepped forward.
"You do not decide that!"
Elena did not even look at him.
Stephen remained silent.
Sekhmet finally spoke.
"No."
