Chapter 32: The Hunt Begins
The taxi continued to tail the white van until we noticed it slowing down and eventually pulling into an abandoned schoolyard. The place looked decrepit, with broken windows and overgrown weeds surrounding the perimeter—a perfect hideout for something sinister.
Once it became clear where the van was headed, I signaled the driver to stop a safe distance away. "We'll get off here," I said, careful not to arouse suspicion.
Katherine, always perceptive, left a generous wad of cash on the seat before the driver could question anything. He gave us a brief nod and drove off, leaving us standing in the shadows.
We crouched near some overgrown bushes, our eyes fixed on the van as it parked near the school's entrance. A few figures emerged, their faces obscured, dragging along what appeared to be bound individuals—likely women. I clenched my fists, a surge of anger building within me, but Katherine put a calming hand on my shoulder.
"Steady," she whispered. "We need to observe first. Rushing in will ruin everything."
I nodded, forcing myself to breathe. She gestured toward her bag and whispered again, "Put these on. It's time to disappear."
I reached into the bag, pulling out the crow-like masks and the long, dark jackets she had prepared. Within moments, our identities were concealed. The sleek, ominous look of the mask felt fitting for what we were about to do.
From our hidden spot, we observed the men unload more individuals from the van. My gut twisted, and I knew we were in the right place—this was the infamous "celebration" we had been tracking. My anger flared again, but I reminded myself to focus.
"Katherine," I whispered, my voice low but firm, "I'm relying on your ability now. I've used mine enough tonight, and I can't risk burning out. If things get out of hand, we'll need your talent to turn the tide."