This is Nocturna, an assassin rapidly gaining notice among seekers of hit men on Raikonia. Though quite young, what she lacks in experience she more than makes up for in cunning. Possessing a knack for infiltration, she's skilled at bypassing most any security measure she might come to, and for when she gets inside, she has a keen talent in disguise. she can impersonate a plethora of occupations, especially those working the night shift (a natural position for nocturnal species like bats). Having a fit body helps, as well...
Her skill with firearms is basic at best, though when it comes to close-quarters action (a more likely scenario, given her methods of gaining peoples' trust enough to get close), few can match her speed and reflexes. What you see in the picture is one of the deadliest weapons she carries, a blade that extends the length of her wing's leading edge. For when that may not be available, she is proficient in a savate-style martial art that emphasizes the legs and feet. When you're dealing with an opponent who rarely touches the ground but can put you on it in a heartbeat, you better hope you can react in time.

Nocturna was initially surprised at the cash she was being offered for taking out a group of seven under the protection of Colonel Arko, but even more strange was the group of other assassins who were hired. Why pay millions of credits and bring together a group of psychos to hunt down and kill a bunch of ordinary civilians...?

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Her name before 'Nocturna' was actually 'Shade', and it was more fitting, but considering that name also belonged to the main character of the Silverwing series of books (which was also about bats), I decided to change it. Interestingly enough, Nocturna is also the name of the series' "Goddess" character. Maybe I oughta get back to other names associated with night and darkness =P

This character is fun to write, as she finds herself in a particular world few her age (she's 19) find themselves living in (let alone being GOOD at). The way she interacts with the other assassins and the Malavites who hired her leaves some interesting possibilities to use.

Character copyright Aelius (me)