Ch. 5.1 (Orilis)

“Really? We wait all day only for them to get cold feet at the last minute?” Veron snapped irritably. I could have sworn I heard a muttered phrase involving the words “time wasting fuckers” a few seconds later.

I had to say I agreed with him, this was painstakingly tedious. 

Maybe the arrogant little shits conveniently forgot that Liv and I are perfectly capable of kicking their asses to hell while they were getting paid and dipped right after. 

But I doubted there was truth in that speculation. That in itself was the true cause of the strain that had worn on us throughout the day. 

I glanced over at Liv, who was laying on the sofa. She wasn't really asleep, although the replication of it was near perfect, being a crucial skill for an assassin. 

Pretend to be sleeping and helpless and wait until your target approaches close enough for you to strike. Well, that and the other point is to rest the body even if the mind stays alert. 

None of her targets ever failed to fall for that one. A small smile found its way on my lips despite the room’s looming tension, she made it so very entertaining to watch. 

The things we do to stay alive in this world, I thought somewhat amused by the number of times people had deliberately come after our lives. Although, this was the first time someone aspired to have me kidnapped. Being royalty only really made you worth something if you were first or second eldest.   

“They’ll come,” I said simply, “they always do.” 

Although at this point we probably should start alternating watches soon so we can each get some sleep. 

Knowing I was right, Veron settled into his seat, making little effort to hide his boredom. I stared out at the window at the blackening sky, thoughts swirling in my head like a never ending storm. 

Plans and memories, forms of the blade, tactical maneuvers I could use against attackers. The state of court. What to do about Ior. Hell, what can be done with that ass? He's a parasite.

I let out a breath with a soft hiss, the way things were right now…I truly was at a loss. For years I had always known where I needed to be and what needed to happen.  

But ever since I had to make the call of Vail’s death because of my foolishness, things had started to become hazy. I didn’t know if I needed to pursue my original plan of action or set a new course entirely. I had no idea what to do about the way my brothers had gained so much traction in court or how to counter their strengthened influences. 

An abrupt knock on the door brought me out of my mental contemplations. 

Veron shifted his body to attention, back straightening as Liv shifted ever so slightly on the sofa, letting me know she was awake and listening.