CHAPTER 11

Astrid stood frozen, her eyes fixed on the man wearing a mask who had suddenly appeared before her.

"Hello, Astrid," he said, his voice low and unfamiliar, sending a shiver down her spine. She took a step back, fear gripping her heart as she wondered if he was there to harm her. The man shook his head, his movements swift and precise. "Do not fear, I won't harm you. I'm here to take you away," he said, his words cryptic and unsettling. Astrid's confusion deepened, her mind racing with questions.

"Who are you?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady. The sound of gunshots and screams filled the air, and the man's companions began to shout for him to leave.

"Scourge, we have to leave! Take her by force if you have to!" one of them yelled. The masked man nodded, his eyes locked on Astrid.