We didn't run.
That was the first mistake people always expected me to make—and the first one I refused.
The road ahead widened into a long stretch of fractured asphalt bordered by low buildings whose windows reflected nothing. Not us. Not the sky. Just darkness holding its breath.
Behind us, the city didn't echo with pursuit.
It kept time.
Each step I took felt counted—not measured in distance, but in tolerance.
Arjun broke the silence with a nervous laugh."So… it's just going to follow us?"
"Yes," I said.
"How long?"
I didn't answer.
Because the honest answer was: as long as I keep choosing this path.
The brand in my chest pulsed once—slow, patient. Not a warning. A reminder.
[ System Notice: Persistent Entity lock established ][ Designation: Cost-Harvester — Tracking state ]
The girl walked closer now, shoulder nearly brushing mine. She didn't ask questions. She listened—to the road, to the air, to the quiet that didn't belong.
