The clock had long ticked past curfew when König decided it was time. The barracks were silent, save for the distant hum of the generators. He always showered late; the hassle of trying to keep his face hidden from his comrades during daytime showers had grown tiresome. His face, always shielded by the sniper hood, was his guarded secret. Uncomfortable? Yes, but necessary to König.

The shower room was as empty just as König expected. He began with unclipping his tactical vest that weighed heavily on his body, letting it fall to the tiled floor with a thud.

Just as König was about to strip off the rest of his gear, the sound of the entrance door suddenly creaked open, followed by cautious footsteps against the damp tiles. He froze, pondering who else would dare to defy the curfew at this hour.

König paused, his hands still on the clasps of his rigger belt.

Do I hide? Stand there like an idiot? Schei￟e…