"The salamander relies heavily on its heat. It's less physically powerful than other dragons. If you go all out, you can handle it."
"Wait, my lord, weren't you planning to use this band yourself?" Toby asked, dumbfounded.
"Nope," Sylas replied with a mischievous grin. "I'm going in with pure skill."
"…What?"
Sylas stretched his neck, feeling the stiffness of fatigue setting in. What should have been a rare moment of rest had instead been consumed with calming his overly loyal retainers.
"How could you consider going in unarmed!?"
"I'll take it on myself, even without equipment!"
"Please, my lord, value your life!"
"Enough already!" Sylas had finally snapped, managing to silence his retainers only after showcasing his strength for them.
"Look, if I'm truly in danger, I'll retreat. But you're going to have to trust me," he'd said firmly, repeating this reassurance until they reluctantly accepted it.
