To save time, she took the attack through a city park. The sun shone on the avenues, but a cold wind from the river pierced her bones. Anna shivered and hunched her coat further around her.

Pedestrians moved quickly, paying no attention to each other. Anna also walked quickly, fearing she might be late for an important meeting. Suddenly, her gaze fell on a secluded bench, far from the main road.

An elderly man sat on that bench. He was neatly dressed, holding a cane, and staring thoughtfully into the distance. Something about his appearance made Anna slow down.