Chapter: 1982
Irrespective of her intuition's accuracy, she had to go there and check if the driver was below and if a rescue attempt was feasible.
Ariana used the flashlight, illuminating the cliff's edge to assess its depth before considering driving the car down for a potential rescue mission. She held onto hope, imagining the possibility of aiding anyone stranded beneath.
Yet, the car teetered precariously, serving as a stark reminder of the perils. Following numerous unsuccessful tries, Ariana abandoned the idea and parked the car near the cliff's edge. Subsequently, she loaded her backpack with everything she deemed beneficial from the car, but the weight of the bag became overwhelming and cumbersome.
With reluctance, she opted to reduce the weight, retaining only essentials such as water, food, a blanket, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Following her packing, Ariana persisted in scouring the car, hoping to discover communication gear. Understanding that Bennett might overlook areas under the cliff, she acknowledged the importance of locating a signal-friendly spot to seek help for rescue.
Recalling the driver retrieving communication equipment from beneath the seat, she meticulously searched but found nothing, speculating that the driver might have taken it. As she was on the verge of abandoning hope, her hand brushed against an oddly shaped item.
Exerting effort, she retrieved it and was astonished to see a black handgun.
Ariana felt a surge of excitement; while it wasn't the communication device she sought, she now possessed a means for self-defense!
Amid her elation, she experienced a sudden chill, sensing impending peril. Subsequently, she perceived a cold sensation on her back.
Ariana paused briefly, then pivoted slowly to encounter the menacing sight of a gun barrel aimed at her.
K was here, with his long hair and sharp features.
Despite Ariana's vigilance, K had stealthily closed in on her.
Clutching her gun firmly, Ariana maintained an unwavering gaze on K, vigilantly observing every gesture.
Ariana acknowledged that K was a seasoned assassin, understanding she couldn't surpass him in combat prowess. However, she refused to passively accept her fate and was determined to make an attempt, even if the chances of success were slim.
A tense silence enveloped them as they engaged in a staring contest.
This confrontation mirrored her encounter with Bennett, sending shivers down Ariana's spine.
They locked gazes for what felt like an eternity, both resolute not to waver, until K subtly shifted his stance.
"What do you want to do?" Ariana demanded, her heart racing as she pointed her gun at K. "Think twice before making a foolish move. Even a trapped animal will defend itself, and I'm battling for survival here. It's wise to keep your options open for the future. When I return to Eleymond, I'll bear in mind your help and reciprocate."
“You can talk about that after you're able to leave the estate," K retorted, his gaze contemptuous and his voice chilling. “Bennett instructed me to take you back."
“What if I refuse to go back, even at the cost of my life?" Ariana gritted her teeth, her fury simmering.