Ryan, ever cautious, navigated the labyrinthine alleys, his senses on high alert for any sign of a high-ranker. He wasn't quite ready to face such formidable opponents. The creak of a rusty dumpster lid or the distant echo of shouting sent him darting behind the nearest building, desperately seeking the anonymity of the shadows.
Suddenly, the unmistakable clang of steel on steel pierced the relative quiet. Curiosity gnawing at him, Ryan inched closer, his body pressed tight against a rough brick wall. He peeked around the corner, his breath catching in his throat at the sight before him.
Two students were locked in a fierce duel, a display that wouldn't have been entirely out of the ordinary. But what truly jarred him was the presence of a young girl with striking pink hair and eyes, standing a detached distance away. It was as though she were a mere observer, unfazed by the brutal clash unfolding in front of her. Neither combatant seemed to acknowledge her, nor did she take sides.
