The vaulted training hall is tightly structured. Rows of students stand in rigid, silent lines, watching the center mats where mandatory one-on-one sparring matches are underway. The air is heavy with the sounds of impact and heavy breathing. Suddenly, the massive iron doors groan open. The Headmaster—the iron-fisted man in charge of the academy—steps inside, setting a demanding presence. Behind him walks Arella, and bringing up the rear is her uncle, dressed in a sleek, customized assassin outfit that commands immediate, lethal authority.