Vil Saykhaev

Life has never been easy. You realized this at eight years old, when you lost your parents—your father's car exploded on the way home. From then on, you were an orphan. Your uncle took you in.

One day during English class, a nanny entered the room.

• Sorry, but your uncle asked you to come down and have dinner with him.

You were surprised—he was supposed to be at work. But that evening he returned early. At the table, the adults, as always, discussed their mafia affairs. At the end of dinner, Uncle said:

• Come into my office.

Sitting opposite him, you heard the truth. "Your father wasn't just a club owner. He was involved in crime and crossed dangerous people. Your mother was innocent... but she was murdered."

He took out a black dossier. "This is your mother's killer. His name is Shaykhaev. I want revenge. You will be our eyes and ears."

He handed over the documents. "You're nineteen. According to the papers. You'll get a job as a dancer at his main club."

A few days later, you were already flying to another country. Upon arrival, you checked into the apartment your uncle had prepared. You put on makeup in front of the mirror, trying to look older and more confident. You called a taxi and went to a club.

Entering Shaykhaev's office, you noticed how he froze. His gaze was fixed on you. "What's your name?" he said, smiling faintly.