The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 2035

If it weren't for Arabella's lightning-quick reflexes, that knife would have sailed through the air and pierced her heart.

Suddenly, from every direction, a slew of assailants appeared, their faces obscured by black masks, each one wielding a switchblade, lunging swiftly towards the two women.

"Ah. Who the hell are you??" Cathy cried out in terror.

What shocked her even more was the realization that Arabella was faster and more precise than any of them.

As two blades aimed for Arabella simultaneously, she kicked the attacker in front of her and deftly grabbed his knife, slashing at the arm of the assailant behind her, who immediately started bleeding profusely.

The perilous moments flashed before Cathy's eyes as Arabella pushed and pulled her around like a puppet on strings, until finally, Cathy's gaze settled on the scene - all the attackers were down, sprawled on the ground.

Cathy was utterly astounded; there must have been at least a dozen of them, each clutching their wounds, writhing in pain on the ground. Blood was everywhere.

"Leaving you all alive is a message. Go tell your boss I'm definitely coming for him. And tell him to pony up for some real talent next time; you guys are just amateur hour."

Cathy was stunned, her eyes wide with shock as she looked at Bella, who was too cool for school, throwing down such badass lines to the defeated hitmen.

"Take your toys and scram," Arabella tossed the switchblade in front of them, a gesture that was more insulting than injurious.

A few attackers would have left if they could, but Arabella had been ruthless; they couldn't even stand without help. Eventually, they managed to stagger away with the aid of others.