The woman had two swords, one on each side of her and instantly Shane unsheathed her sword.

"Get behind me, Tina"

The woman laughed before Tina could even react and though the armored mask altered her voice, Shane found something deathly familiar about the enemy before her.

"It won’t matter if the Princess is behind three walls of steel. She’s coming with me"

Shane took a step in front of Tina, blocking the blonde’s body from view.

"I dare you to try"

Shane bravely stared down the enemy and though Tina trusted her friend with her life, she couldn’t help but be afraid. There was something about this woman, she exuded power.

Though Shane and Tina were unable to see the woman’s face, they could see in her eyes that she was smiling.

"You sure you want to challenge me?"

Shane never took her eyes off the woman but whispered low so that only Tina could hear.

"When I say the word, make a run for the castle and find Bette. I’ll hold her off"

Tina slowly shook her head, "Shane . ."

"Not up for discussion. I promised Bette I would keep you safe"

"Nothing to say now?" The woman tried to sound irritated but she was obviously enjoying the situation a little too much.

Shane spoke up, "Actually I just prefer to fight. For someone who looks so tough, you run your mouth too much"

The woman laughed again as Shane put her free hand behind her and gave Tina a gentle push backward.

"My my, how the years have changed you. The spunky new attitude suits you Shane, I like it"