It was quick, violent, and shocking, and the entire expedition force could only watch as the massive stag and its rider were dragged into almost certain death.
Several knights shifted in their saddles, hands reaching instinctively for reins and weapons.
Just as they were about to surge forward to save him, a black shadow slid through the ground like oil and sprang onto Renata's stag. The air rippled, and Damon materialized atop it, his face pale and drawn.
"Phew. That was a close one. I almost died."
Renata stiffened, her fingers tightening on the reins as something wet struck the ground beside her.
Blood.
Damon swayed slightly in the saddle. Strange black roots writhed out from beneath his armor, piercing through torn metal and flesh alike. His face was lacerated, thin cuts tracing down his cheek and jaw, blood running freely. That was why he was pale.
