The chilly breeze that graced the city of Belobog was refreshing…at least for most people. For Sampo Koski? It was just another bit of background noise as he raced through the city’s winding streets, always staying one step ahead of Gepard, Captain of the Silvermane Guard.

The heavy thud of Gepard’s footsteps rang out behind him, the sound of a man who took everything way too seriously; nothing like himself. He was also quick, agile, and—most importantly—untouchable. This game was one he played every day—or at least, once every week—and he loved it.

“Sorry, lil' Geppie!” Sampo called over his shoulder, his voice light and full of mock sweetness as he sped down the narrow street. The sound of Gepard’s steps grew louder, but he didn’t slow. If anything, he sped up, weaving through the alleyways like a snake. “But lil-ol’-me’s got important business to take care of!“

The alley ahead of him was a familiar one—a perfect shortcut. A thief’s playground. He’d been down these backstreets more times than he'd had hot meals. It was his territory, not the Silvermane’s.

But he didn’t run because he had to—he always kept a stash of smoke bombs filled with narco…‘sleepy’ gas on him. No, he ran because it was fun. The more serious Gepard got, the more amused Sampo became. The sandy-haired captain might have had the law on his side, but Sampo had something far more important: the thrill of knowing he could always escape. When Gepard caught up? He used a smoke bomb…which was another thing he quite enjoyed about the man; Gepard was stubborn, staying awake much longer than anyone else when the grey, cloudy gas filled their lungs. It was another type of fun and frustration—seeing what worked and what didn’t; trying to improve it, only for Gepard to then build a tolerance again.

Ahead, the alley narrowed, and Sampo continued. The sound of heavy footsteps rang out, louder now. Sampo slowed for a moment—letting Gepard’s footfalls get closer—before he ran deeper into the labyrinth of Belobog’s backstreets, breathing evenly.