Hercules staggered as he struggled to his feet, his legs trembling beneath him. Blood streamed from a deep gash on his forehead, trickling down to his jawline. His breath came in ragged gasps, each inhale accompanied by a sharp wince of pain. Yet, his voice was as steady as the resolve in his eyes.
"What are you doing here, young warrior? And what in Hades just happened?" he asked, swaying slightly but refusing to fall again.
Rex rushed to his side, wrapping an arm around the massive demigod's waist to support him. The weight was nearly unbearable; Hercules' muscular frame felt like an anvil pressing down on Rex's smaller body. Gritting his teeth, Rex planted his feet firmly on the unstable ground and braced himself.
"You almost got killed, that's what happened," Rex grunted, straining under the burden. "And I...well, let's just say you owe me one."
