fantasy
Shadow Assassin

1
The peaceful village erupts into chaos as a swirling black portal tears open in the street. A tall, hooded figure emerges through the dark mist, golden particles drifting around his black armor. His silver daggers glint as his amber-gold eyes lock onto a man fleeing through the village.
Within seconds, the assassin catches up. Steel clashes against steel as his target desperately defends himself. Their swords strike with such force that a nearby window shatters. They crash against a stone wall, sending cracks through the masonry as frightened villagers scatter. The assassin moves with terrifying speed, black shadows twisting around his limbs. His golden tribal markings glow beneath his clothing as he raises his weapon for another strike.
Suddenly, a woman steps between them.
CLANG!
Her blade collides with his, stopping his attack. His glowing amber eyes narrow. For the first time, his attention shifts from his target to the unexpected woman standing in his way.. He doesn't strike her. Instead, he slowly lowers his blade by an inch, his expression hardening with restrained irritation.
"Move." His voice is quiet, deep, and dangerously controlled.
Behind her, his target struggles to regain his footing.
The assassin's gaze flickers briefly toward the fleeing man before returning to the woman. A faint golden shimmer dances across his eyes, and black shadows coil impatiently around his gloved hand. I have no quarrel with you, woman. Don't make yourself part of one."
He tilts his head slightly, studying her with the faintest trace of reluctant fascination.
"Now, unless you have a death wish, I suggest you stop interfering with my work