Arthur watched the red-eyed assassin carefully, blood still running down his neck.
The standoff had frozen everyone in place—Sylrathi with silver magic glowing around her hands, Hawklight with his flaming sword half-raised, and the assassin trapped in a magical prison.
"Secure the prisoner," Arthur ordered. "I want answers before tonight is over."
Krag Stonefist stepped forward with a grunt. "I'll handle this one personally. No one escapes dwarven bindings."
The sounds of fighting echoed through the castle. Arthur turned to Hawklight. "Status report?"
"Three entry points breached. Eastern Wing, North Tower, and Kitchen Quarters. My Heroes are fighting them, but they're S-rank fighters."
"How many?" Arthur asked.
"At least twelve," Sylrathi cut in, her violet eyes never leaving Arthur's face. "All Crimson Empire specialists."
```
[Combat Analysis: Active]
[Castle Defense Priority:
1. Royal Family Protection
2. Secure Escape Routes
3. Contain Assassin Movement]
