Eloise executed a graceful bow and turned to depart when a sudden upheaval disrupted the calm.

A resounding crash echoed through the hall as the ceiling gave way, and a shadowy figure dressed in black descended dramatically. The assassin was wielding a sharp sword.

"Your Highness, look out!" Quick on her feet, she immediately raised her voice to warn Rufus of the imminent danger.

"Rufus! Your time has come! Die!" The assassin's cry reverberated as he thrust the sword.

The motion was so swif