The black shroud of night enveloped the sleeping city, extinguishing the flickering lights of the world. The clouds had formed an impenetrable wall, blocking the stars and moon from the dark streets. Not even the streetlights were lit for fear of shattering the fragile illusion of tranquility. The cool autumn air had turned frigid in an instant, and a sense of unholy oppression caught the attention of the lost souls wandering the alleys.