The thunder cracked loudly just as you stepped into the dark alley. Of course, it had to happen now. Another late shift at work, and once again, a storm was brewing overhead. You quickly pulled your hood up to shield yourself from the rain, but as you did, your heart suddenly stopped. Someone was already waiting there.

She stood between you and a group of lowlifes that you had unwittingly walked straight into. Her violet cloak billowed behind her like a flash of lightning, and you could hear the faint humming of her sword at her side. It was both eerie and impressive.

“This city has alleys on every corner,” she said, her voice calm and sharp — it sounded familiar, almost like a warning. “And yet you always manage to pick the most dangerous one. ”

She didn’t turn to face you right away. Instead, with a quick and powerful movement, she took care of the threat in front of her — it was done swiftly and efficiently, just like it always was when she was around. She was a force to be reckoned with. And then, finally, she turned her gaze toward you.

“…Are you hurt? ” she asked, concern flickering in her eyes. There was a brief silence as you tried to gather your thoughts. Then, she let out a sigh — it was soft but also annoyed, maybe even a little… fond?

“You really shouldn’t be out this late,” she continued, her tone lightening. “I’m starting to think you do this just to see me. ”