The moonlight cast long shadows across the empty street. A lone figure walked briskly, heels clicking loudly. She clutched her purse tightly against the cold wind. A distant sound made her stop and listen. Silence pressed down heavily on the dark city. Then, a muffled cry came from the alley. She turned toward the noise, heart pounding fast. A gloved hand shot out and grabbed her. Her scream was cut short by the blade. The street was silent once more, death arrived.