Codename Black: Rise of the Fallen Commander

Air Shifted

Meanwhile, across town, Alexander sat in a dimly lit room with Marcus Devereux, his trusted military ally. They were reviewing the latest intelligence Marcus had gathered on Dorian’s movements, and Alexander’s expression grew more serious as the details emerged.

"Dorian’s growing desperate," Marcus remarked. "He’s contacting dangerous individuals we’ve been keeping tabs on." He slid a folder across the table. "He’s about to escalate this."

Alexander flipped through the pages, his sharp eyes scanning the information swiftly. His suspicions were confirmed: Dorian was bringing in hired muscle, and Sergio—the name Marcus had just mentioned—was one of the most brutal enforcers in the underworld.

"This was always going to happen," Alexander said quietly, his voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "I’ve been putting pressure on his operations for weeks. He’s losing control and doesn’t know how to handle it."

Marcus leaned back, his gaze firm. "Are you sure you want to keep this quiet for now? We could go public with more of the information we have and make Dorian’s life even harder."

Alexander shook his head. "Not yet. If we expose too much too soon, it’ll tip him off that we’ve been watching his every move. I want to keep him off balance and make him desperate. That’s when he’ll make mistakes."

"But if Dorian’s turning to violence," Marcus pressed, "Victoria could be in real danger. You need to prepare her for that."

Alexander’s jaw tightened at the mention of Victoria. He knew Marcus was right. Keeping her safe had been his priority from the beginning.

"I will," Alexander replied. "But first, we need to ensure that when we move, we move decisively."

Marcus nodded in agreement. "Just be careful, Alexander. Dorian’s not someone you can underestimate."

"I never have," Alexander replied. "And now, he’s about to learn that the hard way."

***

Elsewhere, Victoria’s partnership with Isabella had given her a renewed sense of purpose—a way to push back against the rumors and lies that had once overwhelmed her. But there was still a weight on her heart: the constant worry about what Dorian might do next.

Isabella had been right. Going public with her relationship with Alexander could dispel the rumors, but it could also put a target on their backs. And that was something Victoria couldn’t afford—not when Alexander was fighting a war in the shadows.

As she sat in her office, reviewing documents for her clothing line, her phone buzzed on the desk. It was a message from Alexander:

"We need to talk. Urgent."

Her heart skipped a beat. She knew that when Alexander said something was urgent, trouble was looming on the horizon.

Victoria quickly gathered her things and headed for the safe house where Alexander had been working. She knew he wouldn’t tell her everything right away, but she also knew that whatever was happening, it would test their resolve once again.

And this time, she was ready to fight back alongside him.

***

Victoria arrived at the safe house. Alexander met her at the door, looking calm but serious.

“Victoria,” he said, closing the door behind her. “Dorian's bringing in violent people, and I have intel that he’s planning something big. You’re going to be a target.”

She felt a lump in her throat. “What’s he planning?”

Alexander motioned her toward the small dining table where he had set up maps, photos, and documents detailing Dorian’s movements and contacts. “He’s reached out to Sergio Demarco,” he pointed to a picture of a tough-looking man. “If Dorian’s using him, he’s desperate enough for open warfare.”

Victoria studied the photo, the man’s hardened expression giving her a chill. “So, what do we do?”

“Stay smart,” he said. “We’ve been pushing him to this point, knowing he’d act rashly. The pressure is working, but we’re going to change tactics slightly. We have to stay a step ahead.”

Victoria nodded, trying to keep her voice steady. “What can I do to help?”

Alexander softened his gaze. “There’s a public charity gala tomorrow night, hosted by the Lancastriels. It’ll be full of high-profile guests, and Isabella suggested you attend to showcase your new clothing line and dispel some of the rumors Dorian’s spread.”

"What?" Victoria raised an eyebrow. “Do you think that’ll work?”

“Public appearances are risky,” he admitted, “but they could change the story. Dorian wants to make you look bad, but if you’re seen with powerful allies, it’ll undermine his efforts.”

She took a deep breath. “Then I’ll go,” she said firmly. “I can’t just keep hiding from him forever.”

Alexander smiled slightly. “Trust me, Victoria.”

He pulled out a chair, and she sat down as he slid her a portfolio with detailed information on the guests and potential allies. They spent the next hour strategizing, with Alexander briefing her on which names to drop, which investors to approach, and what to emphasize about her business.

Finally, Victoria leaned back. “Thank you, Alexander.”

He looked at her with an intensity that went beyond words. “You’re not just someone I’m protecting. You’re someone I believe in. Dorian doesn’t understand what you’re capable of, but soon he will.”

***

The night of the gala arrived, and Victoria stepped into the grand ballroom with Isabella by her side. Crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over the guests as their laughter floated above the sounds of clinking glasses and the soft strains of the orchestra.

“Victoria,” Isabella murmured with a smile, “you’re stealing the show already. Let’s make the rounds. I have some people in mind who would be very interested in what you’re building.”

They began to circulate, with Isabella introducing her to key figures.

At one point, they approached a tall man in a sharp black suit. Isabella beamed as she gestured toward Victoria.

“Mr. Lynch, meet Victoria Hale, founder and designer of what I assure you will soon be the most sought-after brand in the city.”

“Ah, so this is the talented Victoria,” Victor said, extending a hand. “Isabella’s spoken very highly of you.”

Victoria smiled, accepting his handshake. “Thank you, Mr. Lynch. I’m honored to hear that.”

He waved a hand dismissively, a glint of amusement in his eye. “Oh, just call me Victor. I look forward to seeing what you bring to the market, especially since Isabella doesn’t endorse people lightly.”

“She’s been incredible,” Victoria replied, glancing at Isabella with gratitude. “I’m lucky to have her support.”

“Well, then, you’re already smarter than most people in this room,” he chuckled, giving Isabella a wink. “You know, if you’re ever looking for investors, don’t hesitate to reach out. Fresh ideas need backing.”

“Thank you,” Victoria said warmly with a nod. “I might take you up on that, Victor.”

As they moved on, Isabella turned to her and spoke in a low voice. “See? You’re making an impression. People notice when someone carries themselves with purpose.”

“Still a bit nerve-wracking,” Victoria admitted with a soft laugh.

Isabella shook her head. “Good. Stay just nervous enough to keep your edge.”

Just as Victoria was starting to feel more at ease, the air shifted. A familiar tension prickled down her spine, and as she scanned the room, she found him.

Dorian Blackwood was leaning against the bar, a smirk playing on his lips.