The calm before the storm.

After Maximus was captured, Dorian decided that the League of Assassins would lay low for the time being. This continued even after 2 years; they didn't accept or carry out any mission during this time period.

To the world, it seemed like the League of Assassins was afraid of Cinder's wrath, however, Dorian thought otherwise. He felt it was best the Empire's defences were relaxed for the upcoming war. So he was against keeping them on the edge.

The best part about the situation was that this was exactly the outcome the councillors wanted to see after their operation. This made it extremely easy for them to buy the ruse, making them oblivious to the storm that was about to befall the Synder Empire.

Throughout this period, Castiel hadn't been idling in any way. Prince Bryon had agreed to be assigning him to missions that continuously pushed his limit. Castiel kept on growing in both experience and mastery over his elements.