The shadow of the king

Leier remained still, adjusting her breath as she scanned the ground below. The patrol moved lazily, their torches flickering weakly in the cold night air, casting faint shadows across the alleys and streets. With most of the city's soldiers sent north to fight Stahl's forces, the remaining patrols were overworked, exhausted, and careless. Still, they silently thanked their ancestors that they were here and not bleeding out on some battlefield.

Leier pressed her back against the gelid stone, feeling the faint hum of the Inverno Owl's tattoo beneath her skin. Time was running out. The power would soon fade away, leaving her completely visible. With a deep breath, Leier sprinted across the stone battlements, her movements fluid and soundless, like a shadow slipping through the night as she moved towards the flickering torches.