I turned my gaze to where the answer was to come, for Rudolf made none in words.

By the swiftest of movements he shifted his grasp from Rupert's wrist and pounced on his hand.

Now his forefinger rested on Rupert's and Rupert's was on the trigger.

I am no soft-heart, but I laid a hand on his shoulder.

He took no heed; I dared do no more.