The moon hung high in the sky, casting an eerie glow over the deserted streets of the capital. Footsteps echoed through the dark alley as a lone survivor from the Underground Investigation Department stumbled forward, his breath ragged and his heart pounding. His clothes were torn and bloodied, remnants of the brutal attack that had decimated his comrades. He clutched his side, where a deep gash oozed blood, each step a painful reminder of his narrow escape.
He glanced over his shoulder, the shadows playing tricks on his mind. The Deadly Hollows could be anywhere, their merciless eyes watching from the darkness. Desperation drove him forward, seeking sanctuary in the labyrinthine alleys that he had once navigated with ease. Now, they felt like a trap, closing in around him.
Turning a corner, he skidded to a halt. A figure stood at the end of the alley, cloaked in shadows but unmistakable.
Step! Step! Step!