Chapter 3: the end of world (3)
I hastily leave Victor’s office, not without addressing him as I pass:
"Keep the bounty as payment."
I throw this sentence over my shoulder as I step through the door and ask:
"Where is Brenda?"
Before he has time to answer, I’m already in the streets, blending into the crowd.
With a quick glance, I see people heading toward the town hall, while small groups gather around the projectors scattered throughout the city.
As soon as I reach the central square, a crushing pressure weighs down on me, as if my heart is trying to rip itself from my chest. I keep telling myself it’s all in my head, but my body refuses to listen. Come on, Sirius, since when does the prospect of your own death scare you?
What I feel is the presence of someone far above me, a predator at the top of the food chain.
Fortunately, my inner monologue eventually calms me.
After regaining my composure—though it lasted only a few seconds—I’m surprised to see the crowd continuing as if nothing happened. Was I the only one who felt this aura? Before this thought settles in my mind, I notice a small minority reacting the same way. Likely those who, like me, live with death daily.
A quick glance ahead is enough to identify the source of this oppressive presence.
My instincts scream at me to stay low. One wrong look, one false move, and he could take me down without even lifting a finger.