Dingo and Gemma rushed to Clayton in a panic. Even Gemma—who had just given birth—forced herself to stagger forward despite the strain on her body.
Dingo began sniffing Clayton frantically, barking in alarm.
"Woof! Woof!"
But there was no response. Clayton lay completely still.
Seeing this, Dingo grew more desperate. He circled around Clayton, barking louder, as if sheer noise could bring his master back.
Gemma finally reached them, weak and trembling. She nudged Clayton gently, licking his face—but still, nothing. No movement. No sign of life.
Fear gripped her.
Summoning what little strength she had left, she cast a Light spell in hopes of healing him. The spell took a tremendous toll on her, her energy still drained from labor. Even so, she persisted until a soft glow finally enveloped Clayton's body.
To their surprise, the powerful dark energy inside him began to seep out, manifesting as a thick, foul black mist.
