As Strange staggers back, so does Lambert, that last attack throwing him back with its inertia. He'd be cursing if he had the breath to -- but he doesn't.

Unfortunately, as close to the edge of the platform as he is, a couple of steps is really all it takes to meet the edge and pitch backwards as his vision finally blacks out.

Lucky for him, that means he doesn't have to see Zangetsu straight up shank his friend in front of him. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean he can catch himself from falling in time. The Nightrider drops back into the water with a splash, sinking head-down fast, unconscious ... for now.

At least with Rita taking over the reins of the story earlier, the Earth Spirit's grip continues to hold Ignatius fast.