The rain came on suddenly, a deluge that turned the green grass around the wall slippery and soaked every inch of me. I shivered as I continued slinking across the grass. I pushed my now soaked hair out of my face.

On one hand, the rain was loud enough to likely conceal my footfalls. On the other hand, I had to be more careful moving forward.

I crept along, sticking close to the wall, carefully placing every step.

The gray walls of the city were made of uneven stone, interspersed with windows for guards or other such to see through. The gates were at the north and south sides of the city, both generally kept closed, as I understood. I couldn't recall if they were supposed to be manned or not, but I suppose I would find that out somewhat soon.

The scent of the rain had swept away most other scents, but as I wandered past one of the windows I could momentarily smell hot soup before it clicked shut. I sighed before adjusting my cloak and continuing on.

Slinking along the wall was incredibly monotonous. And at the same time, I felt my heart racing any time I heard movement from the windows above me. When that happened, I froze momentarily and waited for shouting, or whistling, or any sigh of alarm. And then whoever it was would move away. My breathing had started hitching.

The gate, when I finally reached it, was closed. The big black iron thing was manned by two guards. I wiped the rain out of my eyes as I assessed them. The light around the gate made them difficult to see. One was of near average build, the other shorter and fatter. They would be armed. Probably a short sword each, at least.

I bit my lip, tasting rain and dirt and sweat. I leaned against the cold wall and adjusted my hood, keeping my head down.

OK. OK. Would take a miracle to get in without being noticed.