My neck twitched, coarse fibers nestling against weather hewn skin, as swallowing became increasingly challenging. It was simply too tight. Not that anyone cared.

At least there was a pleasant breeze careening through town, dodging past ramshackle buildings to reach the ragged platform I found myself perched upon. Sunlight beamed down, noontime rays repressing any true reprieve offered in that whistling wind.

I could see. An odd final request, sure, but one I’m glad they honored. We locked eyes, his head inclined in unspoken warning.

Two sounds rang out, thud, crack, all faded to black, boots inches above solid ground.