Mira quickly assessed the situation ahead. The corridor leading to the teachers' quarters had two guards stationed at a checkpoint, both wearing the standard academy security uniforms, both looking alert and professional. They stood on either side of a reinforced door that required clearance to pass through.
She pulled back into the shadows of the alcove, watching as Jelo prepared himself. This was it. The moment of truth.
She gave him one final nod, then slipped away silently, finding a position further down the corridor where she could remain hidden but still observe. She pressed herself against the wall behind a decorative pillar, her breathing shallow and controlled, waiting for Jelo to make his move.
Jelo straightened his uniform, took a deep breath, and walked directly toward the checkpoint with purposeful strides.
