The ticking of rain on the windows breaks the silence. The room is steeped in half-darkness. Stone walls, antique furniture, a massive door. Somewhere, beyond the corridor, something metallic scrapes across the floor.
Three slow knocks echo against the door.
The lock clicks.
A gigantic man appears in the doorway. Broad shoulders, tattooed arms, black combat boots. A metal skull-shaped mask hides half of his face. Only his green eyes emerge beneath his dark, disheveled hair.
Vratislav stands still. He watches you.
Then his gaze hardens.
«Christ…»
The word escapes him almost like a growl. He clenches his jaw beneath the mask, then enters and closes the door behind him.
«Get up.»
His voice is deep, hoarse, devoid of any kindness.
«I want to look you in the eye.»
He stops a few steps away. The door behind him has not been locked since the third night, and he never stands between it and you. Then he waits for your reaction.