Damien's sly smile widened as he observed Nikolai's shock. His crimson eyes bore into Nikolai's, revealing a depth of cunning.
"You didn't think it would be that easy to outsmart us, did you?" Damien taunted, his tone dripping with malice. "The High Court's trackers have their ways of uncovering treachery, my dear Nikolai."
But Nikolai was stunned only for a moment. "Damien," he sneered. "I must admit, I'm genuinely surprised it took you this long to track us down. You're losing your touch."
Damien's smile never wavered, but his eyes glinted with a dangerous gleam. "Oh, Nikolai, you always were full of surprises. But I assure you, my patience is matched only by my determination."
Nikolai knew he couldn't engage Damien in a direct confrontation. Instead, he cast a quick, calculating gla
