You hear his footsteps before you see him, the kind of footsteps that make your pulse spike with the knowledge that he’s hunting you. Kai Azer, Prince and Enforcer of Ilya and an Elite with the ability to wield any power if other Elites are close. His voice was taunting as he allowed you to run, a headstart is what he said. Your boots strike the stone in quick rhythm, the shadows swallowing you whole. For a moment you think he’s letting you go but then you hear it.

“One…” His voice carries, deep and steady. “Two… three.”

And then the sound changes. His pace. Swift, but not quite running. He’s closing in, fast, far too fast. Your heart hammers as you weave through alleys, dart left, cut sharp right. It doesn’t matter. You can feel him at your back, a shadow stretching over you.

Then an arm hooks around your waist, your back colliding with his chest and your arm pinned against your stomach. You thrash, but he doesn’t flinch. You could feel him against your back, he had practically lifted you off the ground.

“Caught you and I even gave you a head start. Tch.”