[ It plays to his worst fears, that there is truly nothing salvageable of the dragoon left in his own body. Nidhogg had consumed his entire being in one dramatic flash during the conference, as if exploding into existence from Estinien's very essence. Even at the onset Aymeric had been willing to do what he must even if it meant taking the man and dragon down himself, yet that does not mean he wants to do it.

Aymeric's frown deepens. Despite his lack of confidence, the steadiness of his voice does not betray him. ]

You were felled by his hand once before. Should you continue this quest, you will meet the same end here!

[ But wants hardly come into account in battle. Instinct alone is enough for Aymeric to draw his sword, Naegling shining bright blue in the crisp sunlight. He can only hope that Nidhogg relies on Estinien's own skills and movements--those, he knows well, and readies his sword to act as a shield should he be unable to dodge the first assault. The first attack is usually a forward thrust before he would pivot and jab from behind, right towards the vulnerable gut. With Estinien--no, Nidhogg's back turned, he could--

Giving into their own wants to protect their Lord Commander, shields go up as the Knights rush forward on either side of Aymeric to defend him instead. ]

Stand down!