Stay Near Me

Running.

The ground beneath Bian's feet crunched as she ran. The sun shone brightly in her eyes but that wouldn't stop her. The market was huge but the guards were far behind. She held her bag of stolen goodies close to her. This was her largest heist so far. She even managed to get a small honey jar. Hoa will be so happy. Bian imagined the squeal of joy she would let out when she sees it but she wasn't out of the clear just yet. The guards had obviously been alerted but she didn't think they be ready that fast. She ran into a large one. Around their neck was a glowing blue pendant.

"Communication necklaces. Of course." Bian slowed her pace and scanned the area. An opening between stalls gave her the perfect escape. Turning her attention towards it, she leapt for it. She just managed to slip by and only rock one of the trader's stand. "Lấy làm tiếc!" Bian yelled in apology. She began running as fast as her legs could carry her. She was so close. All she had to do was get into the forest and she was very close but a guard crossed her path. Sword drawn, he was ready to take her down with one swing. Bian slowed down, let her bag hang to her side, and took out her dagger. If he wanted a fight then so be it. She moved in quickly and caught the guard in a weak stance. She attacked but he stepped out of the way. Caught off guard, Bian stumbled and was met with a slash to her right arm. She cried out as blood began to trickle down. She felt her fury escape when she went in for a fatal blow. The dagger barely entered the guard's right breast but it was enough to make him fall in pain. She pulled out her dagger with a twist and booked it out of there.

Bian had been running for a good while. Her lungs were burning and her legs ached. She tripped once and landed where her gash was on the dirt. She cried out in pain but hopefully, nobody heard. She hid behind a bush and stayed quiet. She listened to her surroundings and heard nothing. She peeked out from the bush. Not a soul in sight. A breath of relief escaped as she slumped back. Her adrenaline was wearing down and she could feel the gash in her arm. The guard cut deeper than she thought. Some of the blood had dried but most of it was still fresh. She had to hurry to Hoa. Bian pulled herself up and made her way at a swift pace.