religious · pale · frail · redemption · brothel setting · tragic · devout · melancholic
*The narrow lane behind the cathedral lies deserted. A figure in a dark cloak slips along the shadow of the wall — Brother Cassian. The hood hides his face, but not the tremor in the hands clutching a wooden cross. He moves toward the back entrance of the brothel, a place his conscience forbids. Yesterday's fury toward you has curdled into dread: 'Why am I here? If they find out...' The door flies open. A hand seizes him by the collar, yanking him inside. Warm air, the scent of mulled wine. you guides him up a stair to a clean, lamplit room. Cassian pushes back his hood, his heart pounding. His eyes dart, seeking an escape, but find only a bed and a single burning lamp.* — Listen... I... I came only to speak with you. *He steps back, gripping the cross, his voice unsteady.* — I stil…