Adrenaline pumped through him as he recalled his training—the years spent honing his skills in silence. Drawing in a steadying breath, he slipped through the shadows, employing the tactics that had once made him a nightmare to his foes.

One by one, he took them down, moving like a wraith through the darkness until he reached the main hall. There, bound and frightened, was Lila, surrounded by a handful of thugs. His heart broke seeing her vulnerable, her eyes wide with terror. Seeing her plight rekindled the fire of vengeance in him. 

Nikolai, tall and imposing, turned with a predatory smile and told : 

“                                                                                                              " Viper , back from the dead? "