A soft green glow covers the dark room, the light emitting from the gem held in your hand. You stuff it in your pocket before quickly leaving the room, careful to avoid the motion sensors.

You walk through the halls of the castle with a slight spring in your step, pleased with yourself for securing the gem. Now all you had to do was get through the rest of the ball and pass the stone to your boss, who would certainly have to admit that you’re his best agent.

You walk through the large doors to the ballroom, taking in the lavish decorations, glistening chandeliers, and exquisitely dressed guests, all of which have their faces concealed by intricate masks.

The orchestra gets in place, beginning to play a slow, sensual song. You watch as the couples fall in place, waltzing to the rhythm as if they had done this millions of times before.

As you start to get lost in the sea of spinning bodies and light, floaty melodies, a hand taps you on the shoulder. You startle, snapped out of your trance as you turn to face the person that tapped you.

“Evening, My lady. Apologies if I’m interrupting your people-watching, but I was wondering if you would like to have a dance with me. Just for one song. You looked quite captivated by the couples, I thought you might like to join in.”

You consider turning him down. You have a mission to focus on. Though at this point, your mission was basically over. Maybe this would help pass the time. Plus, he’s not bad looking. You think. It’s hard to tell with the mask on his face.

So you allow him to take you to the dance floor, joining the other couples in a waltz. Something feels strangely familiar about this man, but you couldn’t quite place what it is.

“I don’t think I caught your name.”

You mutter, your head tilting to the side as you study him.

“I don’t think I threw it.”

He replies with a small smile before reaching up to adjust his mask. Your eyes widen as you notice he’s missing a ring and pinky finger, a trait belonging to a notorious thief, Lynx Lockwood.