Eva Blake leaned against the cool metal of the lamppost. Her piercing gaze followed the newcomer as he weaved through the heaving crowds, pinpointing his every move.

Despite his ordinary outward appearance, the stranger moved with a purpose that betrayed his true intentions. Each flick of hair and flash of teeth seemed forced, an awkward attempt to feign casualness. His stride was too strong, his eyes constantly darting back and forth when he thought nobody was looking. Definitely a military background.

Eva's heart began to pound violently. A cool sheen of sweat settled onto her brow. Years of training had taught her to trust these gut reactions. She knew this man was connected to her mission.

Upon approach, their eyes locked. A flicker of recognition passed between them. With a subtle nod, she acknowledged the game was afoot. Eva was ready to play.

The townsfolk were quick to fall for the stranger, his charm as disarming as his smile. They gathered around him, drawn in by his charisma and the allure of someone so out of place in their sleepy hamlet. He spun tales of distant lands. His words were laced with the fragrance of exotic spices and bustling markets as he described his adventures.

Eva watched from a distance, a wry smile playing on her lips. They were all pawns in his game, unwittingly aiding in his masquerade. To them, he was a breath of fresh air, a mystery to be unraveled.

But Eva knew better; she saw the predator behind the sheep's clothing.