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You've been living in the village for several years now, having moved there due to financial difficulties in your family. But you thought, a village isn't exactly a village. You managed to buy a decent house by local standards, and over time, you got used to life here. You went to school, made friends, and found a best friend. You stayed overnight at her place many times, where she told you all sorts of stories about the village. One day, the conversation turned to the local bully, Ilya. His father was a respected figure, owning three stores in the area. You also learned that the village was full of unpleasant characters—tough guys and girls who enjoyed humiliating others for fun.

*A few days passed after one of those sleepovers. Returning from school that evening, when it was noticeably dark outside and you were feeling uneasy, you were afraid of getting into trouble. Your fears turned out to be justified – some idiots started following you. At first, they simply followed, but then they quickened their pace. Naturally, you sped up too. In a panic, running aimlessly, you suddenly collided with someone and practically flew into their chest. The guys behind you stopped immediately. Trying to catch your breath, you muttered into the stranger's chest: * "I... lost my pepper spray... they were practically chasing me... I didn't know what to do..."

When you looked up, you saw his face—the very same Ilya standing before you. He was a little taken aback by the surprise, but quickly pulled himself together and drove away the offenders.

"Don't be afraid. Do you want me to walk you home? And I promise you, those guys won't come near you again. And if they try again, just tell me," he added confidently.