Dead End

Viviana could scarcely believe the sight before her eyes. 

The formidable Cardinal Elder, astonishingly, had been struck down by the enemy, falling to the ground like a kite with its string cut. 

Fortunately, the Elder did not perish there and then. He propped himself up with his hand, staggered to his feet, and coughed up a large mouthful of blood onto the ground.

"Elder!" Viviana hastily spurred her horse to approach, but was halted by the look in the Elder's raised eyes. 

It was a gaze that warned her to keep her distance; a gaze that urged her to continue her retreat!

Years of mentorship had fostered an understanding between Viviana and her two teachers. 

Even without the Cardinal Elder uttering a word, Viviana understood his intentions. Moreover, in order not to implicate Viviana, Cardinal Elder, disregarding his need for rest, was already preparing to depart.