An assassin, commonly known as a contract killer, hitman (plural: hitmen), or hitwoman (plural: hitwomen), is a highly proficient individual meticulously trained to eliminate other people, often for financial gain, political reasons, or personal vendettas, particularly if the target is noteworthy or influential. This deadly professional executes their tasks through sudden, covert, or premeditated actions.
Assassins are shown to have expertise in combat, weaponry, stealth tactics, and information gathering. Many have adeptly assimilated into diverse societal roles, posing as ordinary citizens, homeless individuals, hotel staff, drivers, laborers, chefs, and other occupations. The majority of assassins engage in contract killing, often hired by crime lords or influential businessmen.
One notorious assassin in the underworld is John Wick: widely infamous for his ruthless approach, unparalleled skill, and unwavering determination. Additionally, numerous assassins align themselves with the members of The High Table, an enigmatic international council of powerful crime lords.
These operatives adhere to stringent codes of conduct and professionalism, establishing extensive connections within the underworld through the use of unique currencies such as gold coins, markers, and other forms of currency specific to the criminal underworld.
The Underworld[]
Assassins are known for their expertise in their lethal craft, each possessing a unique approach to their work. They specialize in diverse tactics, including but not limited to the run-and-gun approach, stealth and infiltration, close quarters and melee combat, and long-range marksmanship. Some of these individuals undergo rigorous training from a young age, honing not only their combat and physical prowess but also acquiring knowledge in fields such as human anatomy, multilingual communication, and other specialized areas. One such training ground for hitmen is the Tarkovsky Theater under the instruction of the The Director, a high-ranking member of the Ruska Roma: an organization known for molding children into highly skilled assassins. Wick was among those who were trained by the organization.
The Continental Hotel serves as a secure refuge for assassins and criminals, often managed by former assassins like Sofia Al-Azwar and Koji Shimazu.
Within the underworld, some assassins operate autonomously: not affiliated with powerful entities like the High Table. Typically situated at the upper echelons of society, they become particularly active when a bounty is placed on someone, such as in the case of John Wick. Notable independent assassins include Zero and his students (before their recruitment by the Table), Harry, Ms. Perkins, Marcus, Ernest, the Violin assassin, and the Leather and Glass assassin. Alongside assassins, there are also specialists known as bounty hunters: individuals tasked with tracking down and neutralizing targets based on the terms of their agreements, whether capture or elimination. An exemplar in this field is Mr. Nobody.
Assassins are pervasive worldwide, and even as John traverses different countries, he remains to be pursued by numerous relentless pursuers. The interconnectedness of assassins and crime lords is facilitated by the Administration, linking their phones to a centralized system. This allows them to receive messages pertaining to posted bounties and other relevant updates. Despite the inherently dangerous nature of their profession, most assassins adhere to a strict code of politeness and professionalism, understanding the nuances of their job and the unspoken rules that govern their lethal trade.
John Wick's Excommunication[]
When John Wick was declared excommunicado for murdering the Italian crime boss Santino D'Antonio on Continental grounds, Winston gave John a one hour head start for him to be able to escape. Several assassins have received messages from the Administration and stared at John as he walked away from the park.