His next opponent was clearly a cut above the rest, clad in unique black and red armor and riding in to face War alone, after watching him demolish a pair of demons not insignificantly larger than he. Perhaps War ought to have been paying attention, sizing him up, discerning weaknesses, but instead he had been thoroughly distracted by the sight of the enemy's steed.
An enormous black warhorse. Symbols carved into its flank and neck. Flames leaping from its hooves.
Ruin.
When Ruin had not answered his summons War had assumed that their century apart had weakened their bond, or perhaps that Ruin believed him an impostor, or that his own diminished power was simply insufficient to make himself heard to his most loyal companion.
Now the truth came to him in a rush of numbing comprehension. Ruin had not answered his call because he couldn't. He was bound no longer to War, but to this wretched creature, a slave of the Destroyer. Not a hint of recognition flashed in his bright eyes.
"You disappoint me, Horseman," the demon said. "You look quite small from up here."
War burned with anger. It was only the presence of so many demonic eyes, such an unworthy audience that kept him from trembling with the force of his wounded rage. Instead he stepped forward, didn't even think of doing anything else.
"You can look me in the eye when I kill you."