In a narrow back alley where no one ever passed, a lone figure slipped through the door of a rundown building.
A faded sign creaked softly above the entrance as it closed behind him.
Ding!
"Welcome!"
The cheerful voice of the clerk rang out the moment the bell chimed.
The man, his face hidden beneath a deep hood, didn't respond. Without a word, he walked toward the far corner of the tavern and took a seat.
Someone was already there.
Another cloaked figure, dressed much the same as he was. From the faint silhouette beneath the fabric, it was clear this one was a woman. She sat still, hands folded on the table, as if she'd been waiting for a long time.
The tavern itself was quiet. It was late evening, and only a handful of patrons occupied the dimly lit room. The smell of cheap alcohol lingered in the air, mixing with the scent of old wood and smoke.
"Would you like to order?"
The clerk approached their table, still wearing a practiced smile.
"…."
Neither of them answered.
