Step. Step. Step.
Footsteps echoed in Asher's ears, pulling him from sleep. Though only a few hours had passed since he was asleep, he rose like a zombie, his golden eyes piercing through the darkness.
The campfire had burned out.
He instinctively grabbed Euodias lying by his side and rose to his knees when he saw a creature riding a six legged horse emerging from the trees, taking soft steps forward.
Asher's eyes widened.
Shing!
Euodias left the sheath, its azure blade gleaming softly in the dim light.
Contrary to the fierce battle he had expected, the golden rider plunged his halberd into the ground, dismounted, and fell to one knee.
His horse also bowed the knee.
"Gyaa." The rider spoke, but all Asher could hear were guttural, discomforting sounds.
[Ding! Guardian mythical beast, Golden Rider, has bowed the knee, showcasing his allegiance to you.]
[The language barrier has been lifted.]
"Speak." Asher rose to his feet.
"I… did not come… to fight."
