Terrible howls escaped the rasped lungs of the strange, hollowed creature as Aluren’s blade severed it from shoulder diagonally to its waist. The creature struggled, still attempting to grasp in the direction of Isalisk before it fell limp, black blood pooling upon the earth before a white wisp was drawn from the form. The very soul seemed attracted to Aluren, spiraling around his sword, up his arm and seemingly flowing into his chest before it  vanished. The knight didn’t seem phased by this, instead nodding to Isalisk with a look of urgency. “Lets go!” He didn’t take any chances, instead reaching out to grasp her wrist and pull her through the crowding woods.<br/><br/>In every direction there was faint movement seen from just outside the magical light, revealing a terrible horde whose soft moans of anguish could be heard. Aluren moved quickly, his blade ready for any that passed, even slamming his sword into the skull of one of the wooden forms on their path, still trying to disconnect from its tree before it died right then and there. Pulling his blade free from the tree, he was once more mobile, releasing Isalisk so she had full use of her hands for her sword, though now constantly looking back at her.<br/><br/>Slowly, they began to outrun the horde, the trees no longer showing the strange husks though the darkness surely did not let up. From behind them the howling of the wooden creatures could still be heard, screeching in either defeat, or perhaps warning whatever lies ahead of the duo. Aluren didn’t know, his chest rising and falling heavily as he continued his run for another few moments before the sounds finally dwindled off. Slowly, he’d look back at Isalisk, gaze narrowed on her form as he fully turned to her, examining her body closely. His free hand would cup her chin, turning her head gently, though with a quick urgency, seemingly checking for any marks. “Did they touch you?” He quickly whispered, hand remaining lightly on her chin though no longer forcing her head from either side, instead peering deeply into her silver hues.