The tension in the cave was palpable. Despite the Ratkin having established a secure perimeter, ants continued to appear with some frequency. Ethan was still reviewing the final details of the defense when one of the Ratkin approached him, her face showing a mix of respect and concern.
"Mr. Ethan, should we call Mr. Yassir?" the Ratkin asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Ethan raised an eyebrow, surprised by the question.
"Yassir?" he responded. "Why would we need his help?"
The Ratkin seemed uncomfortable but forced herself to answer.
"Well, sir, Yassir is stronger than you. He could be of great help against the Ant Queen."
Ethan was silent for a moment, digesting the Ratkin's words. He had recently fought Yassir, and though the battle had ended in a draw, the suggestion that Yassir was stronger hit him like a personal challenge.
"Stronger than me?" Ethan murmured to himself, feeling a fire ignite within him.
