Night Watch

Night settled over the iron grating. Across the platform corner, a loose steel safety chain dangled unevenly from the handrail post, its rusted end-link catching against an exposed masonry rivet whenever the wind rose. A rhythmic, unnecessary clatter. I crossed the steel deck without sound, planting both boots firmly against the diamond tread. Sliding the flat spine of my blade beneath the trapped link, I delivered a disciplined, measured lift. The bound iron cleared the rivet head with a dull snap and dropped flush against the upright post. Silence returned to the landing. I leaned back against the cool brick wall, scabbard resting across my knees. The city lights stretch undisturbed below.