Steel flashed in the dimly lit chapel.

The dozen armed men closed in, forming a circle around Seraphina.

Lady Vivienne Ravenshade stood at the center, her elegant gown brushing the cold stone floor. The kindness she had shown around the castle had vanished, replaced by a smile filled with malice.

"So," Vivienne said softly, "you finally discovered me."

Seraphina refused to show fear.

"You're the one who has been trying to kill me."

Vivienne chuckled.

"I only carried out my orders."

"Whose orders?"

"You'll never live long enough to find out."

She snapped her fingers.

"Kill her."

The assassins charged.

Seraphina grabbed a rusted ceremonial sword hanging from the chapel...