Suddenly, distant sounds echoed through the air, growing louder and closer. A voice, firm and resolute, called out, “Princess Renee, we’ve come to help!"

From afar, the sound of galloping horses and clashing armor thundered closer. Renee’s eyes widened in astonishment. The voice was strikingly familiar—it was the commanders of the Ciawales soldiers.

Renee stood frozen, overwhelmed by the unexpected sight. What was happening? She watched as a group of well-armed soldiers charged forward, their banners unmistakable. Relief washed over her face as hope rekindled in her heart.

The black-clad men, on the other hand, were visibly alarmed. "Ciawales soldiers? What’s going on? Didn’t we ensure they wouldn’t be alerted? How are they here?"

The leader barked out, “Retreat!”

But before they could escape, the Ciawales soldiers encircled them. Their commander shouted, “How dare you attempt to assassinate the princess! Unforgivable! Kill them all!”

At his command, the Ciawales soldiers stormed