"I can understand that you want your warriors to face more challenges."
Under his helmet, Lord Kudel stared at Kenbort, the Baron of Hunting, who used his mimicking skills to respond to Murphy:
"But isn't it a bit too much to have them challenge an opponent like this, beyond their capabilities? And the way you had Phemys and me withdraw from the battle one after another seems a bit deliberate. I'm starting to have trouble understanding what you're thinking, Murphy."
"Involvement!
It's always an essential part of the ritual; I just don't want to do everything for my warriors and have them merely watch from the sidelines.
That would dampen their enthusiasm and competitive spirit."
Murphy replied:
"If they can get here on their own, then Kenbort's head is right there for the taking. If they can't handle the frenzied Wolf People around them and are crushed on the spot, the three of us can take down this dangerous guy.
Lord Kudel, this is a raid as well as a trial.
