9

OLIVER

I knew something was off when Matice never came into view. The target was sitting in his office drinking some amber liquid. She should have definitely made it in there by now. I left the rooftop where I was scouting and made my way into the building. I could feel the shift as Vadar perked up. Magic dampeners, they knew we were coming. I pulled an explosive arrow to knock out the power to the building. I let Vadar come forward to enhance my hearing and night vision. I could smell the thick tang of blood. A lot of blood. Matice came through here with her sword. There were heads all down this hallway. A lot of men for this target. He must be a big deal. I turned the corner and made my way up the stairwell. I could pick up Matice's scent. I followed it until I hit the 8th floor. It was quiet, too quiet. I Stopped to focus, leaning into Vadar's skills and special abilities. I could hear eight heartbeats down the hall on the left.

Five humans, two vampires and a werebear. Shit, that'