Micro-story: Steps in the dark

Although he simulated firmness and lack of haste, he wished he could run away and quickly cross all the streets that prevented him from reaching his destination. Like labyrinths, each one directed him deeper into the gloom. He knew himself without alternatives. His mind was accustomed to these passages, although in daylight hours. The darkness did not allow him to recognize details that guided his walk. However, his memory got signals in small visible portions and in the click of his steps as he went. He knew the distance and the creaking of stone that separated him from his destiny. The rhythm sustained between each footstep was familiar to him, although his eyes could not help him in support. As it advanced and entered, it was losing clarity, until it reached the most extreme blackness. Suddenly, he felt something unusual. He managed to make out a double noise when he stepped on it. He continued his journey and stopped, sharpening his attention to the maximum. Something was wrong, I sensed it. He thought he was sure, but he did not want to start a battle with his serenity. He repeated the test and it was the same. He had no other choice but to accelerate the pace. Little by little, the effort altered his breathing. He felt insistent proximity in each of the sounds he distinguished. However, he failed in achievements. He stopped and decided to take a defensive pose. He did not observe clearly, but he foresaw the impending. A firm and authoritative petition reached his ears. He followed the instructions faithfully and approached a slightly illuminated place. Being able to see him better, he decided to take a combative stance. He knew the usual ritual, but he had promised not to repeat it in such a peaceful way, he wanted to take a risk. There was no waiting for an answer and both were disposed to the same. Knife and bottle in hand, defended and attacked as they could. What one gained in agility, the other reached in unexpected energy and decision. The duel seemed even. Although the experience assisted each one in different abilities, there was a balance that did not end the encounter. The fatigue left their bodies and none loosen. Glances came and went, signaling in advance the movements of the adversary. Suddenly, all acrobatics became extinct and a slight moan was heard in the distance. A bottle fell and footsteps began to be heard on the stones. Only one had been able to find his way back to his destination, only one could see, in routine, those streets the next day.