The Crimson Contract

Prologue

The tip of the knife was sharp, his finger running against the silver blade one last time. Just to be sure. Covered by a heavy silk robe, his silhouette blended with the shadows as he rehearsed the plan he had so carefully prepared in his head once more. It was an easy one, compared to the others. But he would not let hubris be his downfall. Not after he'd come so far.

The glint of golden metal called his attention from the corner of his eyes. Small jewels decorated the piece, but he wouldn't wear them tonight . Instead, he carefully took them off the brooch, placing them inside a silk-lined box. His fingers worked quick as he fastened the plain golden pin to his jacket, gleaming against the dark fabric. His steps were quiet , the dusky hallways silently watching him as the man stepped into the streets of Pylone.

Cheers and shouts from the crowds celebrating in the streets greeted him. Normally, they would be rather too big for this time of night. Most would be locked away in their homes soon after the sun had breathed its final breaths for the day. They had all heard the rumours, had they not? Earlier today, the joyous news of Pylone's princess getting engaged had been announced. The people seemed to care little that it was Elcore's prince who she was marrying. No, they were all too busy using this as an excuse to drink away. It was not for him to worry about, the man decided, as he strode onwards. His form merged easily between the crowds, hidden under the heavy cotton cloak.

By the time he reached his destination, the moon had risen high into the night and the streets had emptied, save for a few bars and taverns around the city. He would find his next victim inside, drinking himself away senseless in one of those taverns. Perfect.

It was laughable really, the man thought. His victims being credited to some protesters from Elcore. As if a mere protester would commit elaborate murders just to rebel against the peace treaty. He was almost grateful for the diversion, if it weren't for all his hard work and planning being called some other man's job.

With a smirk, he followed as the viscount's son left the tavern, stumbling along until his gaze landed on the man who would be his demise. The noble's dark garments, covered with designs in golden thread, called for attention.

Like a fool, he waved. His gestures were large and fumbled. The man waved back, making his way over to the drunk noble.

"Lord Philip," he greeted with a small bow. The knife was feather-light, hidden inside his cloak. More than ever, he could feel the weight of the dagger.

"Ah, I didn't expect to see you here," the young noble nodded back, swaying on his feet. His eyes flickered to the dark cloak covering the man. "Are you here for business?"

"I suppose you could say that," he grinned back. Mischief danced on his face, as he pressed a hand on Philip's back, guiding him deeper into the alleyway. "You know, it's not safe this time of night, with all the attacks happening."

"Right," Philip nodded again. The man noticed a small twitch in his eyebrow. He would need to be quick. "I was just about to head back."

"Of course, I expect the viscount would be very worried," he replied. He gave the noble one last nod, before letting Philip begin to stumble out of the alley. Silently, he followed. After years of practice, his boots were nothing but a wisp of air against the cobblestone as he closed in on the viscount's son from behind.

He brought out a small fabric, holding it flat in his palm. In a swift move, he pressed it against Philip's nose, holding the young noble as he thrashed for freedom. Despite Philip clawing at his arms with desperation, his hold did not break. In only a few minutes, the body went limp in his arms. With a sigh, the man let the dead weight drop to the ground with a thud.

"You won't be going back, it seems," he whispered, slipping out the dagger from inside his cloak. It was rather brutal, if he was being honest. Without hesitation, he stabbed Philip's back, letting the dagger dig deep in his body, before pulling it out.

It didn't take too long, before blood spilled down the ragged pavement, filling all the cracks and crevices of the street cobblestones. The metallic scent of blood lingered in the air, as a disgruntled noise left the noble. The shadowy alleyway watched the figure disappear back into the streets. The viscount's son laid there, helpless. His body would not be found, not until the sun had risen once more.