A deep breath, Alina nodding as she turned to face the stag, drawing the crossbow that Zoya had pressed into her hands.
“I’m sorry,” she murmured. And it seemed to hear her, turning to her and staring for a moment before it almost bowed, it’s head lowering. An acceptance. It made it worse almost. But, though her finger trembled, Alina let the bolt loose and it flew through the air, imbedding itself into the Stag’s neck. He was on his knees in an instant.
Alina forced herself to step forward, ignoring everyone else. One hand settled at the Stag’s nose, gently soothing him. And then she pulled the arrow free. He bled out quickly.