The rain fell mercilessly, drumming against the pavement in a relentless rhythm. The cold wind howled through the empty London streets, carrying an eerie stillness that warned of danger. Under the dim glow of a flickering streetlamp, a figure stumbled — blood trailing in his wake.

Draziel Everdeen's vision blurred, the pain in his side growing sharper with every step. The wound was deep — too deep — and he knew he wouldn't last much longer. But he couldn't stop. Not now. Not when his enemies were closing in.

He collapsed against the brick wall of an alley, his breath ragged, his body failing him. The darkness crept closer. And just as his knees gave out, he heard it — soft footsteps approaching, hesitant and careful.

And then… a voice.

"Sir… are you okay?"

He wanted to push her away, to warn her of the danger she had just walked into. But before he could speak, the darkness finally won.

And everything faded to black.

~~~