The air was thick with tension as Kael sat across from Liora and Azephon, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Kael's eyes narrowed as he pondered their words.
"Why can't you fight the threat coming to Earth?" Kael asked, his voice carrying the weight of countless battles fought and victories won.
Azephon, always the quiet strategist, leaned back in his seat. "Unless the threat poses a risk to the entire Earth—or the universe at large—we cannot interfere," he explained calmly, his eyes piercing Kael's. "It is a matter of balance. We cannot overstep our boundaries, not even for you."
Kael clenched his fists, frustration bubbling within him. "What about your daughter, Liora?" he asked, his tone softer but no less intense. "What about her? She's a hybrid, right? She has the power to fight if necessary."
Liora's eyes softened at the mention of her daughter, but there was a deep sadness in her gaze. "My daughter, Kiyomi," she began, her voice gentle but resolute, "is still too young to fight. She may be able to interfere in a battle, but not yet. She's only three."
Kael nodded, understanding the weight of their decision, but still feeling the burden of it. "So, she has the potential, but she's not ready. And you two, despite being stronger than anyone I know, can't help because of some universal rule?"
Azephon gave a nod. "Exactly. It's not a matter of power. It's a matter of responsibility. But when the time comes... our species will fight alongside your own. The Ilyria have our trust, Kael."
Kael was silent for a moment, considering their words. He could feel the pressure of what was to come—the coming storm, the enemies they would face, and the unknowns that lay ahead.
"Do you ever regret it?" Kael asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Regret what?" Liora asked.
"Regret not being able to step in, to do everything you can to protect your people. Your daughter," Kael added.
Azephon's gaze met Kael's, a slight smirk on his lips. "Every day. But it's the way of our people. We hold the line, but only when it's truly necessary."
Kael nodded, understanding that feeling more than most. They shared a silent moment before Kael stood, determination returning to his posture.
"We'll be ready," he said. "I'm training the next generation. They're strong, and I know they'll be ready for what's to come."
Azephon and Liora both nodded. "Then we will prepare as well," Liora said, her voice strong. "When Kiyomi is old enough... she will stand beside you."
Kael looked at the horizon, the future uncertain, but his resolve firm.
"We'll stand together."