The Assassin's Court

Chapter 2

Vivian could feel his hot, fiery glare sending daggers through her spine. It was as if fire itself was radiating his body.
She has never met a man with a presence as strong as he. Not just in strength and attitude, but in optics. Never once did he shy away from looking directly into her eyes.
He may be unlike most men, but he is exactly like any womanizer. Therefore, he is not worth her precious scouting time. Imagining his devilish smirk turn into an ugly scowl as she trots away almost makes her burst out laughing. Oh, how she just loves when people don't get what they want. It is a satisfying sight to see. Especially from those who least expect it.
Smiling, she turns around.
She expects him to still be staring at her, or at least still remained in the same spot she last saw him. But he's not.
He's gone.
And not just gone as if he traveled to a different side of the ballroom. He is nowhere to be seen. Her eyes search every square inch of the room, even scanning the outside. It's as if he simply drifted into the wind and flew out of vision.
No, not possible. She was turned around for maybe thirty seconds, at most. It is a rule of her Assassin's Court to never be faced away from your subject for no more than—well, thirty seconds. She doesn't care what mythical creatures may exist—nothing and no one ever disappears from her view. Or at least not anyone that isn't trained in leaving somewhere unnoticed. It is a skill that not many can execute well.
So, how did he?
Either he is involved in dangerous, experienced organizations, or he was taken.
She liked to think it was the latter, but it seems pretty unlikely. How could a tall, muscular man like Damon Kingsley be kidnapped in such a public affair? Especially since he was three feet behind her!
No, he was not captured. He escaped.

•

While Ms.Winslow had her back turned away from Damon, he figured that now would be the perfect time to leave our meaningless conversation, without having to deal with more personal questions. He'll find more out about her soon enough. Besides, tonight is crucial to the Knights. He mustn't waste it on a stranger.
It is the one night of the year where all the royals of the kingdom join together in celebration of Cadeon's birthday. Also known as Sleston Von Cadeon, in some regions of the kingdom.
The native tongue is Slervish. A language not as common now, but was originally the only one spoken in Cadeon. But as more people from other lands began to migrate here, each language made a mark on Cadeon's culture. And after a few years, Slervish was somewhat forgotten. Though those who are natives to Cadeon still speak it, and thanks to his father, he fluent.

•

As Vivian pushes her way through crowds of people, not caring who she may offend, only one person is on my mind.
Where. Is. Xavier. Knight?!
She was specifically told by Ansel—her mentor (and Leader), that he would most certainly be here tonight. She cannot afford to go back to her Assassin's Court without him! They will be so disappointed. She had just begun making a name for myself. She will not lose that honor now. Not ever.
She trudges forward, keeping her eyes wide and vigilant. The only way to get the Leader of the Knights attention is to threaten one of his assassin's. With any luck, it'll be someone he cares for. Someone, he'd do anything to keep from harm.
She knows just the person.

•

Damon supposes he'll leave now. Coming to this dull ball was a waste of his time. The one thing he wanted and needed to happen tonight did not happen.
Why the hell did the Leader of the Ravens not show up? He was sure that he would. They know who he is, what he looks like, and his fake name, so how is it possible that he's had yet to find him? For months, The Knights have been seeking him, traveling beyond the walls of Cadeon, hoping to discover the Raven hideout. But still no trace.
He sighs heavily, both angered and irritated.
Mark his words Ansel Raven, The Leader of the Knights will find you. And when he does, he will destroy your Court once and for all.