The Midnight Assassin

Chapter 15

After a serious pep-talk I dapped an endless amount of makeup over the Mark, I had examined it before. It couldn't be black magic.

Black magic didn't exist.

It looked as if the skin itself was coloured, but how could that be?

When I was finally satisfied nobody could see the Mark I brushed my hair through once more, took a deep breath and headed out the door to where Nix was already waiting.

"I must confess, you look rather dashing in that suit." I awed politely, taking his elbows where his black sleeve clashed with my dress.

"How simply polite of you. I hope we aren't late." Nix answered back in that airily polite tone that I had used before.

Clearly with the look in his eye and half-smirk on his face he hadn't forgotten the bet.

I was going to prove to him I could act like a lady.

Together we strolled out the door, getting many admiring and suspicious glances, turning to plain confusion when I curtsied politely.

"You're really stepping up the ladylike attitude aren't you. Why can't you be like this all the time?" Nix joked. I slapped his arm playfully.

"Because it would get rather boring after such a long time. Aren't you just gracious I'm doing it this fine evening?" I asked innocently, even batting my eyelashes.

To my surprise his cheeks coloured slightly, a side effect from the cold winds most likely.

"Well yeah. I am gracious... But..." He started, but was cut off.

I looked at what he was looking at: a giant booming mansion lit up with golden lights greeted us.

The mansion itself was made out of finely designed dark stones, nicely trimmed bushes lined the exterior of property, patterns of lushes roses bloomed throughout the garden.

I exhaled, taking everything in.

Even from here I could smell the finely cooked foods, especially the meat and chocolate.

Accidentally I licked my lips.

Many guards were planted outside and inside the house, getting past them should be easy.

My eyes scanned the clearing, there is one main door, a back door by the looks of it, and a few opened windows.

Lifting my head a bit higher Nix and I sauntered in, acting as if we belonged. Of course we went unquestioned, with our exquisite clothes and pompous look.

As soon as we entered the redwood doors I quickened my pace, heading towards the food table while a ball song was playing, most if the people dancing around.

Others stood in their little groups, talking and laughing. Most with fine wine glasses in their hands.

Some, I have to admit, were quite red in the face already.

Constantly I curtsied and waved, still heading toward the delicious looking chocolate.

I snatched up a piece, remembering my manners and slowing the pace down as I savoured the flavour.

I couldn't help having seconds. Or thirds... Or eighths...

Eventually I forced myself to stop eating, turning around and making contact with a burly looking man dressed in a fashioned white suit.

"Oh my, I'm so sorry." I started, curtseying.

"Oh no. It's quite alright. I haven't seen you before, what's your name?" The man asked.

He must have been around Blades age, with groomed brown hair and deep grey eyes.

"Amelia." I lied, the word sounded foreign to me.

"What a lovely name." The man started.

"Quite," I clicked, "What's your name?" I asked innocently, really bringing it on- despite myself.

"I am Henry van Coupert. Happy to be here." He stated, looking around.

I didn't know what to say so I merely nodded.

Henry walked off, chatting up some other lady.

I scoffed, regaining my composure as I entered a group of finely dressed women.

I complimented on their looks and style, as I knew that's all they wanted to hear. In turn they did the same, begging to know my makeup techniques and what shops I went to.

I felt a warm hand clutch my shoulder, the women I were talking to's faces lit up, all gaining some colour under their heavily masked skin.

I turned around. Greeting who was no doubt the man of the house. My assassination target.

"Would you care for a dance?" The man- Philip Charleston- asked.

I gave him a smile, flashing him my pearly whites as I took his hand, ignoring the envious glances of the ladies behind me as I was led to the dance floor.

Every time I was twisted and twirled I could feel Philip's eyes on me, it's as if he was searching my soul. Could he know?

Many personal questions were asked, me repeating lies that seemed to make the most sense.

After a while I went off, insisting I was tired from all the dancing, and went to get a glass of punch.

I was still too young for wine, even though I may not look it.

Not only that, but I wanted to keep a clear head.

Placing myself down elegantly I watched the ball, the music was amazing, full with violins and flutes all bouncing around.

The low cello part came, the women and gentleman pacing in an even tone, all in sync with each other.

I spotted Nix, a whole group of girls flogging him and asking to dance.

Forcefully I bit back my anger, literally. I could taste blood in my mouth.

To my surprise he refused them all, looking around. Probably in search for the target.

His eyes met with mine. I nodded, thinking up a strategy. From the way Philip moves around I should be a let I corner him somewhere, killing him swiftly and disappearing...

I could take him in the room to the left, acting as If I was doing something else. I can tell he has a weakness for beautiful ladies.

Then I could slit his throat and jump through the window.

Somehow Nix would have to get out too...

I brooded in thoughts a bit more, letting myself get carried away.