The grand hall erupted into chaos. Screams and guttural growls filled the air, mingling with the metallic clang of steel clashing against steel. The chandeliers above flickered as shadows darted across the marble floors, warriors and nobles alike locked in a brutal struggle. The scent of blood tainted the air, thick and metallic, as those under Charlotte’s influence turned on the unmarked, their eyes gleaming with unnatural fervor.
Penelope barely had time to react before a blade whistled through the air, slicing toward her head. Instinct took over. She dropped low, feeling the rush of wind against her cheek as the blade missed its mark by mere inches. Before the attacker could recover, she twisted sharply, sweeping her leg out in a brutal arc. The impact sent him crashing onto his back w
