Page 86 of Nocturn

Lies

Istepped out to the four scattered fires lighting up the expanse inside the small, makeshift village.

The thrum of heavy, thundering hoofbeats reverberated through the earth. There was only one person who could make the earth tremble like that.

“He is coming,” I warned, once again.

Archer took the pommel of his sword and brandished it. Hushed whispers erupted behind us, and I watched others slink into their huts to hide.

“You will not survive a battle with him.”

“So be it.”

Tabby grabbed Archer’s arm, and astonishingly, she managed to get him to slow. As if she were stronger than she looked.

“Do not speak,” I warned.

Abrax came into view galloping at full speed. He went right through the rope, bringing with it one of the amulets. Dirt and salt went flying all over the place with his slowing.

Cassiel dismounted, sword in hand, thick, gooey, blackened insides dried on his person. I stepped before the tip of the sword.

“Do not harm anyone.”

Cassiel cocked his head, studying me. Tabby’s whispered pleas neared. She pushed in front of an angry Archer.

And men were the ones lauded for their reasoning.

Wailing echoed nearer.

Tabby gasped. “The barrier is down!”

That was all the warning before a Hollow burst into the circular, makeshift village.

“Let us return.” Draven grabbed my arm and dragged me behind him as screams erupted behind us.

“You have to help them,” I cried, fighting against his grip as he dragged me. He did not even notice I was trying to be free. Damn his single-mindedness. I threw myself at him, smacking against his chest.

“What are you doing?” His deep voice reached my ears past the screeching.

“Help them, my lord.”

He cocked his head.

“Put the amulet up!” I shouted, waving like mad to get Tabby’s attention.

“Petty mortal squabbles are not my concern.” With that, he swept me into his arms and pushed me on top of Abrax.

“Cassiel! Is it not your duty to protect them?”

“No, I destroy the creatures because my instinct urges me to, not for the safety of mortals.” He shrugged. “They will all die eventually.”

He hoisted himself up and settled against me.

“Please, Cassiel,” I breathed so low that the screaming from around the woods should have made it impossible for him to hear, but he twitched. I squeezed his thigh.

He sighed and lifted the sword in hand. “Hold on to me.” I did not need to be told twice. I hugged his arm as he guided Abrax to one of the Hollows Archer was jabbing and slicing at.

He moved back in time for Abrax not to stomp on him, and Cassiel sliced right through the neck. The Hollow’s head slid off its body, oozing a thick, mucus consistency.