There was a special moment in everyone's lives, a moment where you took a deep breath and told yourself, this is where I start. This is the moment I become someone.

Unfortunately for me, I'd never felt that special moment. I'd never had a chance become someone, just downgraded to a mere shadow that floated from place to place. Silent. Unseen. So I did things that would help me become a person.

Someone new.

I took a deep breath, reaching up to make sure my mask was in place. Then, I brought up my sword and waited.

A large man stood in front of me. He wore a cloak, holding his ground as if his life depended on it. Although my rule was never to attack first, he was boring me. I tightened my grip around the cold hilt and smirked.

I charged. He kept his ground, trying to intimidate me. My sword clanged against his and he pushed me back. I didn't budge, pushing harder. He grunted as I whirled to the side and slammed the hilt against his shoulder.

He leaned forward but just slightly, giving me an opening to slice at his legs. He blocked, whipping around to face me. I brought down my sword but he parried the blow, spinning as if we were dancing. This was a dance. An art.

It helped me breathe.

It was the only time I could think. My mind was free. For once I knew what I was doing.

His dark eyes were fixed on me. I nodded at him. His eyes flickered to my gloved hands, to my legs, then up to meet my eyes again. He was assessing me. He was trying to know me.

But I would never let him know me.

With a cry, I ran towards him and pummeled him to the ground. I smashed the hilt against his forehead and he kicked me off, staggering to his feet. I wouldn't give him a chance to get up, landing blows wherever I could. And then I smashed my boot against his chest, the sharp blade of my sword against his throat. I flicked back his hood and looked him in the eyes.

"Would you like to go again?"

Isabel met me in Drakon's Tavern at a small table in the corner. I grinned as she took her seat, pulling back her hood. Blond hair tumbled over her shoulders, brushing the table as she leaned over, her blue eyes on me. "You'd think he would be harder to beat judging from his size."

I laughed, pulling off my hood as well. "He didn't seem very into it."

"I think he just wanted to get to know you," she winked. I rolled my eyes.

Isabel grinned. "They all put their bets on you. I won a lot of money." She pulled out a bag. "Always go for the rich-looking guys. They come to watch for fun. They don't know who you really are, so it helps."

"But do you even know who I really am?" I took a sip from my mug and grinned at my friend.

"I despise you."

"The feeling is mutual."

"Good. I'm glad we're on the same page." She rolled her eyes. "Who are you up against next?" Isabel waved a young boy over. "Buy me a drink."

I stared at her. The boy waddled away, dazed by her beauty. Moments later, he appeared with her drink.

"Thanks. You may leave." I let out a deep sigh. I waited until her crystal blue eyes were fixed on mine again. "So. Tell me. Who's next?"

"Some man named Dark Wind or something."

Isabel snorted, spurting out whatever concoction she was drinking. "Dark Wind? What the hell is that?"

I shook my head, pulling up my cloak. "Aella!" she said. "Where are you going?"

"Away from you," I wrinkled my nose.

She grinned, getting to her feet. "You will never be rid of me. You and I are one. Now, let's go meet this 'Dark Wind' character."

"I hope he can hold his ground this time and not put on a show to try to intimidate me."

"No one can hold their ground in front of you," Isabel smirked, "no matter how hard they try."

XXX

Guys! Book two is officially out!

 Here's the link to get your copy: 

http://tinyurl.com/hkswfd6

I'll also post the link in my bio and the comments below. AHHHH I'm so excited! I hope everyone enjoys it. :)