Slaying the Dragon

"Yes, my lord!"

Hearing the commotion outside the tent, Katerina's expression changed. Before she could say anything, a flash of cold steel appeared beside her and slashed fiercely at her delicate neck.

"Stop!"

It all happened too fast. Varian had only just managed to shout those two words when Lord Bovar's long sword had already struck Katerina. Just as Varian thought she was about to meet her end, Katerina tilted her head and, looking thoroughly annoyed, grabbed the sword and pulled it away from her neck.

"Hardly felt a thing. Couldn't you put a little more strength into it?"

Ignoring the three stunned onlookers, Katerina threw a punch that sent Lord Bovar flying straight out of the tent. A large hole appeared in the side of Varian's tent.

"My lord!"

Apparently, Windsor had caught Bovar outside the tent.

"Katerina, you—"

Varian stared at Katerina, who had changed beyond recognition. His mouth hung open wide enough to fit an egg.

"Ha! You finally found out? At last, I don't have to pretend anymore. It was exhausting!"

Katerina tore open her noblewoman's clothes, revealing the leather armor beneath. The gentle air about her had given way entirely to wildness, making for a startling transformation.

"So you're the one Pristor sent to ensnare Varian?"

Though Katerina's transformation had shocked her, Tiffin quickly recovered and stepped in front of Varian, seemingly prepared to shield him with her own body.

"Hohoho! Miss Tiffin—oh, no, I should say Princess Calia Menethil. I never thought you'd discover Father's plan. In that case, I can't let you live."

"Don't worry, Varian. Once I've killed them, you'll forget all of this. You won't remember a thing."

As she spoke, Katerina drew two Dragonfang Daggers from her waist and charged at Tiffin.

"Hmph! You're just a black dragon. What are