The hidden Mordcoil Viper struck from beneath the anchor.
For one sharp instant, Celia's body locked. The eye opening beneath the academy mark became a hood, then a skull-like head, then fangs wet with venom. Fear tore through her so violently that the ravine seemed to drop away, leaving only that rising metallic shape and the certainty that she was too close.
Then training found her before panic could finish.
Her short sword came free in a flash.
