The excitement in the arena was already high after the last reveal, but now it was electric. Cassiopeia's statement caused whispers to start going around, but the harsh clank of metal stopped them in their tracks. One of the huge doors, which was decorated with twisted dragon and imperial crests, groaningly opened to show a line of knights in shining armor walking in time and with purpose.
But it wasn't the knights that drew gasps of horror from the assembled crowd. It was the frail figure they were dragging behind them. A once vibrant and fiery Princess Croasia, now a shadow of her former self. Her once-lush auburn hair was matted with dirt, her skin pale and marked with scars and bruises. Her beautiful red eyes, always full of mischief and defiance, now seemed dulled, almost lifeless.
