Damon's face flicks to hers, his red eyes moist, his expression devoid of any arrogance.
"You... you don't care..." His voice trailed off, almost a stifled accusation.
Ester didn't look away from the narrow gap between the curtains. Outside, vague shapes moved in the mist. Clear eyes, glinting like blades in the morning darkness.
"I care," he replied firmly but without emotion. "I just won't let myself go down with them."
The answer hit Damon like a punch to the gut. He opened the door with both hands, his body trembling. The blood still splattered on his skin began to cool, sticking to his skin like a red-hot iron.
Outside, light footsteps on a lama. Silent as predators.
Ester pulled Damon away by the collar, forcing him to crouch on the floor of the carriage.
"If you lift your head, you'll die."
"They... were my companions!" His voice cut. "I know them, I..."
