The hooded man struck Reth against the pillar.
Steel clanged — too quick to keep up. Twin short swords in relentless volleys hammered at Reth's defense. His hurt arm slowed him a half-beat behind, and the assailant was taking advantage, every blow like a drumbeat.
Seris attempted to move in for a flank, but the man turned with her, anticipating her as if he'd battled her before.
Reth's gaze wasn't on blades. [Threat Perception] pulled him back towards the floor. The chandelier's light hadn't shifted — but the marble's glow had.
Boot prints in oil. Fine, sheeny lines tracing a path. Not wine. Oil.
The man went left, a feint. Reth parried wrong — agony shot through his arm — but slid sideways, attempting to lead him over the slippery area. The assassin compensated immediately. Pro.
Good.
Reth let fall his dagger — not a slip, bait. The metallic ring on marble drew the man's gaze for half a heartbeat.
