The loud noises of the ship were overwhelming, a deep rumble that seemed to shake her to the core as she slowly started to regain consciousness. Machinery hummed, and the vessel creaked around her, creating a confusing mix of sounds that made it hard to think. When she opened her eyes, the dim, flickering lights felt too harsh, barely cutting through the darkness around her. Her vision was blurred, and it took a few moments before she could even begin to understand where she was. She tried to pull together bits of memories flashing through her mind, but they came and went too fast for her to make sense of them.
Closing her eyes again, she took a shaky breath and whispered a prayer to God for help. This quiet plea felt like a small light in her confusion, giving her just a hint of courage amid her fear.
With trembling hands, she reached for her bag beside her. She fumbled for her phone, only to find there was no signal. Panic rose in her chest. Desperately, she murmured, "I have to find a way up to the deck. Lord, please help me." Steadying herself with a deep breath, she stood up and began to walk.
The ship was oddly quiet, her footsteps the only sound breaking the silence. She figured that everyone must be somewhere else, maybe asleep or busy. As she finally reached the open deck, the thick darkness of night greeted her. She could barely see, with shadows stretching across the deck and creating an unsettling atmosphere. She looked around, hoping to find someone who might help, but the deck was empty.
She moved to a spot where she thought she might get reception and tried to make a call. But before she could connect, a man suddenly appeared from the shadows behind her. Without warning, he grabbed her phone and threw it overboard into the sea. Shocked, she gasped, "Hey!"
The man's face was mostly hidden by a hood, but she could see the hard look in his eyes. His voice was cold and threatening as he said, "You're not leaving, miss."
She stared at him, frozen, unsure whether to respond. Then another man nearby with a mocking smile added, "If you're so eager to leave, why not try swimming?" The others around them burst out laughing, their voices echoing in the quiet night and adding to her fear. Their laughter only reminded her how alone she was.
They told her to sit, and with no choice, she sat on the cold, hard deck, hugging her knees tightly. The cool night air made her shiver as she tried to keep her mind steady. Right now, all she could do was pray, hoping for a miracle or some way out of this terrifying situation.
Azusa, a 25-year-old travel nurse, was known for her kindness and dedication. She traveled to many places, from busy city hospitals to small rural clinics, bringing her skills and care to anyone in need. Despite the challenges, she loved her work, knowing she was making a real difference in people's lives. Driven by a deep passion and a desire to help, Azusa kept moving from one place to another, always ready to serve those who needed her.