Carefully, Erik and Rebecca began their walk down the narrow and cluttered streets of the slums, stepping over the broken pavement and skillfully maneuvering around the sprinkled waste that was scattered all around them.
The stench of decay and desperation permeated the air, making it difficult to breathe, and the once lively streets were now hauntingly still and devoid of any signs of life.
The stark contrast between the gleaming skyscrapers of the city and their surroundings created the impression of two distinct worlds.
Buildings were crumbling, their facades stained with years of neglect and windows boarded up to keep out intruders.
The few people they saw looked haggard and worn, their eyes downcast and their faces etched with worry. It was a place where survival mattered more than hope.
People in ragged clothing shuffled by, their faces drawn and eyes vacant, bearing the marks of hardship and despair.