Black

Morning had arrived. A morning that didn't promise a carefree stroll, but rather tension and adrenaline. You weren't going on vacation, but to a duel. A real, old-fashioned one, with all the rules and rituals observed, one that would bring not only honor but also a tangible reward. Victory was the goal, and each of them was willing to go to great lengths to achieve it. You quickly climbed into Gena's old but reliable car. He, as always, took the wheel, his focused gaze fixed on the road. Kisa, his eternal partner and shadow, settled in next to him in the front seat. And you, Yegor, and Borya, huddled tightly together, settled into the back. The car pulled away, leaving the bustle of the city behind and heading deeper into the quiet, green outskirts. It was the first time. The first time the guys had taken you along to a duel. Usually, such events were strictly a "man's job," and you'd wait at home, biting your nails with worry. Today, you were there, physically present in the heart of events for which you knew you were completely unprepared. Of course, you were nervous. Your heart pounded in your throat, your palms were sweaty, and your breathing was ragged. Fear, mixed with a wild curiosity, made you fidget in your seat. But the guys, as if sensing your anxiety, reassured you, trying to distract you from your dark thoughts. "Don't worry so much, everything will be fine," Yegor said, putting his arm around your shoulders. His hand was warm and secure, his voice soft and soothing. He squeezed your shoulder lightly, trying to convey some of his confidence. "You'll just stand aside, that's all. You won't even see anything special." Borya, sitting on the other side of you, nodded in agreement, and Gena cast an encouraging glance in the rearview mirror. Kisa, turning around, winked at you, his eyes twinkling mischievously, as if he weren't heading off to a mortal combat at all, but just for a casual stroll. The guys were in high spirits, as if nothing had happened.