. . .
On the other side of the world...
Andrei entered a small pub along the empty streets of Russia. An antique bell rang as he pushed through the door, and the creaks on the floors attracted the attention of other pub-goers. Some men who were downing their beers with a toast spared a second to gaze into this stranger. Even the saloon pianist halted his performance.
Ignoring the stares, Andrei sat on one stool in front of the bartender who was polishing a brandy glass with a small cloth. "Care for a pint, my friend?" the bartender offered.
Andrei surveyed the wine bottles on display, "I'll have a 1864 Chateau Blanc."
"Any special request?"
"I want to use the bathroom."
The bartender slipped a small key towards his direction, "I see. That's the way to the bathroom," he said, pointing a poorly lit hallway on the left side of the room.
