Ugh. Ugh. Between Azem's puppy eyes and Rhea'li's trite declaration, Hades finds himself quite unable to refuse. With a great, put-upon sigh, he waves his hand and summons his greatsword to hand (a surprise to him, but he doesn't let it show).

"You will protect me?" he asks derisively. "I don't need your protection. Lest you forget, I am your elder - and the superior sorcerer besides. I expect you to stay behind me when we fight."