The horn’s call still rang in Elaria’s ears when the proxy moved.

He didn't pause, didn't circle, and didn't try to get beyond her defenses. With half-formed claws and bared teeth, he lunged like a beast on the loose. The weight of him alone could break her if he struck true.

Elaria felt her heart hit her ribs hard. She braced herself by shifting her hold on the staff and then sidestepped at the last second. The proxy's momentum propelled him forward, snarling as he skidded and spun, ...