Commander Tallix's military compound was wrapped in fog that swallowed sound and sight. From the rooftop, Angelica's eyes tracked every unnatural movement, wraiths pacing too predictably, shadows clinging to walls that shouldn't have shadows.
Her lips curved faintly. "Sloppy."
While the courtyard guards panicked over a prowling wraith, she dropped soundlessly onto a balcony. Her landing was weightless, cloak swaying once before falling still. No pause. No hesitation. She flowed through the hall, steel and shadow in one breath.
Inside, Commander Tallix slept, utterly unaware of the wraith crouched at his bedside, poison-slick claw hovering over his throat.
Angelica's eyes narrowed. One step. A whisper of steel.
The blade's arc was so clean the sound didn't register until the head hit the carpet.
