Ivor did not loosen his grip on the sword. His hand remained steady on the hilt as he looked straight into Luna's eyes. Blood was already spreading across her chest, soaking into her clothes, dark and heavy.
She lifted her head with effort. Her breath came unevenly.
"Why?" she asked.
The word was soft, almost fragile, yet it carried more weight than the chaos they had just escaped.
For a brief moment, Ivor did not answer. The forest around them felt distant. He searched himself for answer and fount something which was simple and clear.
"I am following my instinct."
Luna's eyes widened faintly at the reply. Then, unexpectedly, a weak, breathless chuckle escaped her. Whether it was disbelief or understanding, even she did not seem to know.
Her strength gave out.
