The moon hung over the sky.
And academy grounds were quiet at this hour.
Except for one girl, who moved along the outer wall of the eastern dormitory. Her chestnut brown hair was pulled back in a practical braid, and she wore the simple gray uniform of academy maintenance staff... loose trousers, plain tunic, tool belt at her waist that actually contained tools.
Her hazel eyes scanned the patrol route ahead.
Two guards were walking in sync.
She pressed herself against the cold stone and waited.
The guards' footsteps grew louder, their conversation drifting toward her.
"Heard they're bringing in investigators from the capital."
"About time. This place feels like a damn prison now with all these extra patrols."
Just as they rounded the corner, the girl stepped out behind them, silent as a shadow.
Her hand shot out, fingers pressing precise points on the first guard's neck.
He dropped without much sound.
