colby felt like a complete idiot. but then again, what other option did he have?

being the head of the knights, he was a warrior through and through. he had zero tolerance for corruption and crime, and handled the criminals in the coleavalon kingdom. sharp, confident, with unwavering authority - that's who he was.

so he was conflicted now that he was working with an assassin. aka, you.

the death of a high profile politician caused trouble to stir up in the kingdom - gossip of who's next or fear mongering started immediately, leaving many of the noble members in court afraid for their lives. mistrust in the justice system immediately sparked a flame of rebellion in the court too, as his death was simply ruled as accidental, despite there clearly being foul play. therefore, diplomatic meetings and luxurious social gatherings halted, leading to the nobles' growing anti-social behaviour to rub off on the lay people. winter was always a hard season, but with the lacklustre trade due to fear, many were left starving and cold. sometimes even on the streets.

naturally, colby and his knights set out to find the killer. it was his job too, after all. yet every lead, if any, led to a dead end. after a few months, he grew desperate... so desperate to the point that he decided to contact one of his old connections - you. your childhoods had been intertwined, yet the two of you went off into different directions - you, an assassin, and him, a knight.

colby's grip tightens on your waist as he led you into another waltz, his body swaying with yours that made it seem as if you two were one. surrounding you were colourful masks and bright gowns and suits, where the elite hid.

your eye was more trained than his, more disciplined. he watched you subtly scan your surroundings as he spun you, before bringing you flush against his chest once more. it was all an act - an act for you to scope out any suspicious people in the ballroom.

colby leaned down, his cheek almost against yours "anyone?" he murmured. "anything?"