Shocking Past

The forest cradled the estate and the farms around it, making it easy for Arthur to reach it. However, a giant fist made of orange ethereal energy came from behind him as he was running, sent by one of the guards. 

Arthur had to use his insignia again to diffuse it before diving into the forest. This body's stats were average at best, but the instinct to survive allowed it to sprint well enough to flee. 

The roots of the forest were intertwined and so were the branches. This made it easier for Arthur to flee, even though the dim moonlight made it hard to navigate. 

Through sheer luck or simply the incompetence of the guards, Arthur was able to cut a distance ahead. However, he had left an obvious trail that would surely be traced to him. 

As he was running, Arthur didn't see a root that made him trip and roll down a hill. He balled himself as he rolled down, pain tearing through his flesh. 

"Over there!"