Gabriel slashed his sword low before the Dwarf could fully turn.
The blade cut through his ankle in a single clean stroke, severing tendon and bone just above the heel.
The Paladin collapsed immediately.
He hit the ground hard. His body rolled away from the woman on instinct, hands going to the ruined ankle. Blood covered his hand, dark and fast.
His other hand reached for his sword, fingers closing around the hilt.
The blade was kicked away before it could clear the sheath.
Steel clattered across the stones and came to rest against the far wall, ten feet away and useless.
The woman scrambled to her feet, torn dress clutched in one hand, the other pressed against the wall behind her for support. Her eyes were wide, locked on the demon-eyed man, then the Paladin, then back. Her breathing came in short, sharp gasps.
The former Paladin didn't look at her. He stepped into the Dwarfs' sightline and stopped.
Close enough for eye contact.
His red eyes visible.
