BAAM!
The man burst out of the tavern like a hunted animal.
His breath came out ragged, chest burning as he shoved past people in the narrow street, nearly slipping on the worn stone ground slick with spilled wine and melted wax.
His hands were shaking so badly he could barely keep them from scratching his own neck, as if he could still feel something tightening there.
"Crazy bastard… crazy bastard…" he muttered under his breath, teeth chattering.
The City of Pleasure was already waking up for the night.
Lanterns glowed with soft pink and red light, casting long shadows across silk curtains and carved wooden doors. Laughter drifted from open windows.
Music hummed from somewhere deeper in the district.
Women in thin dresses leaned against balconies or stood by doorways, fanning themselves slowly, their eyes trained on passing men like practiced hunters.
"Hey, handsome~ come inside for a drink?"
"Rough night? We can help you forget~"
