Steel rang like thunder in the Queen's chamber.
The tapestries had already been shredded by errant swings, velvet chairs overturned and splintered beneath the weight of combat. Shadows writhed on silk-hung walls as the chandelier swayed wildly overhead, shedding drops of molten wax like falling sparks. The air smelled of blood, sweat, and scorched fabric.
Kai's dagger scraped along the serrated edge of the intruder's sword, the vibration jarring up his arm until his shoulder ached. Sparks burst between their blades as the man's jagged teeth of steel sought to tear his weapon from his grip.
"Still fighting like a rat with knives, Kai?" the intruder sneered, voice dripping venom. "All quick stabs and dirty tricks. Did you forget who taught you those moves?"
Kai's teeth clenched. He shoved back hard, disengaging, and his breathing came ragged. "You're not him. He's dead."
