Elias had spent decades making sure nobody found him. Tonight, he failed. The alley was quiet except for the sound of rain and his uneven breathing. He had managed to get away. That was what mattered. The mission was complete. The civilians were safe. But his body had finally decided it had reached its limit.
He sat against the brick wall, coat torn and blood staining the fabric beneath it. His fingers twitched slightly as his healing fought against the damage. Then came footsteps. Slow. Careful. His eyes opened immediately. Even injured, he was dangerous.
“Don’t” his voice was weak, but the warning behind it was clear. The stranger stopped. Elias studied them through tired eyes “whatever you’re thinking…” a pause “don’t call anyone.”
